Santa Maria, Brazil

Living in Santa Maria means settling in a sprawling university town that dominates its micro-region. The Federal University and Franciscan University give the city a youthful energy, but don’t expect a bustling urban vibe—this is a place where life moves at a slower pace. The 2013 Kiss nightclub fire remains a somber reminder of safety lapses, so vet venues carefully.

Santa Maria’s central location in Rio Grande do Sul makes it a practical base for exploring the state, but the city itself lacks major tourist draws. It’s a working-class town with a focus on education and local commerce. The low cost of living appeals to budget-conscious expats, though English proficiency is limited outside academic circles.