Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 81)
Saquarema sits at just 15 m above sea level in a tropical climate, with the America/Sao_Paulo timezone keeping schedules aligned with Brazil's southeast coast. The city holds a population of 38 thousand, a scale that keeps daily life unhurried. Expats who settle here tend to weigh the tradeoffs between the city centre and areas outside it, where rents drop noticeably. A one-bedroom in the centre runs $450/mo, while the same outside the centre costs $320/mo. For larger households, a three-bedroom in the centre is $850/mo, and outside the centre it falls to $600/mo.
Monthly costs break down into clear tiers for a single adult with rent included: $1,050/mo for a budget approach, $1,450/mo for mid-range, and $1,950/mo for comfortable living. Excluding rent, a single person spends around $580/mo, while a family of four faces about $1,950/mo. Utilities average $59/mo, internet is $19/mo, and a mobile phone plan costs $10/mo. Everyday food stays affordable: an inexpensive restaurant meal is $6 per person, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $30, and a cappuccino is $2. The cost of living index of 37/100 against NYC as 100 underscores how far budgets stretch here.
Safety leans favorable, with a safety index of 60/100 and a crime index of 40/100, where lower crime is safer. Air quality registers 45 on an index where lower is better, and healthcare quality is rated Good. Internet speeds average 45 Mbps, enough for remote work and streaming without friction.
Retirees can pursue the VITEM XIV program, which requires a minimum monthly income of $2,000/mo. Remote workers have the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa, with a minimum monthly income of $1,500/mo. The nearest airport is CFB, 26 km away, making arrivals and departures straightforward. With an overall expat score of 81/100, a FIRE score of 83/100, a retiree score of 66/100, and a digital nomad score of 62/100, Saquarema suits budget-conscious retirees, early retirees chasing FIRE, and remote workers who value low costs over a large English-speaking expat scene, since English proficiency is Limited.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Saquarema, Brazil. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Saquarema on a budget budget comes to about $526 a month for one adult, with $320 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $73.00 on groceries, $24.00 on dining out, $21.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $88.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$320/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$73.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$24.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$21.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$88.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Saquarema on a mid-range budget comes to about $600 a month for one adult, with $320 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $98.00 on groceries, $60.00 on dining out, $34.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $88.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$320/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$98.00/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$60.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$34.00/mo
2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$88.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Saquarema on a comfortable budget comes to about $861 a month for one adult, with $450 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $137 on groceries, $125 on dining out, $61.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $88.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$450/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$137/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$125/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$61.00/mo
4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$88.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $450/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
See low-fee transfersWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Saquarema's cost of living compares with Cristalina
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Saquarema is a relatively safe coastal town with a moderate safety profile suitable for expats. While petty theft and opportunistic crime occur, violent crime is uncommon. Main concerns include pickpocketing in crowded areas, vehicle break-ins, and occasional scams targeting foreigners unfamiliar with local practices. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and stay aware in less-developed neighborhoods. The town's small size and beach-community character make it generally welcoming; most expats report feeling secure with standard urban precautions.
Saquarema has a safety index of 60/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
Compare travel insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Saquarema's healthcare compares with Cristalina
Saquarema has a tropical climate with warm summers (41°C peaks) and mild winters (12°C lows), high humidity year-round (78%), and distinct wet season from December to March, making it ideal for beach living but requiring adaptation to heat and moisture.
A laid-back beach town with surfing opportunities and local culture.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Coworking Saquarema | A well-regarded independent coworking space in Saquarema, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a community vibe. Perfect for digital nomads looking for a local experience near the beach. |
| Escritório Compartilhado Saquarema | Located in Saquarema, this coworking space offers a professional environment with various amenities. It's a good option for those seeking a more structured workspace. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Saquarema long-term? Brazil Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $1,500/month.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Saquarema? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Saquarema's digital nomad life compares with Cristalina
Areas of Saquarema that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Bustling heart of Saquarema
The central district offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It's generally walkable, but can be noisy and crowded, especially during peak season. Good for those who want to be in the middle of the action, but less ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Surfing mecca, laid-back vibe
Famous for its world-class surf break, Itaúna attracts surfers and beach lovers. It has a relaxed atmosphere with surf shops, restaurants, and bars. While popular with tourists and expats, it can be more expensive than other areas and somewhat isolated without a car.
Residential, quiet, family-friendly
Vila is a more residential area, offering a quieter pace of life. It's a good option for families and retirees seeking a more authentic Brazilian experience. While less touristy, English proficiency may be lower, requiring some Portuguese language skills.
Beachfront, scenic, developing area
Located along the beach, Barra Nova offers beautiful views and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a developing area with increasing amenities, but still retains a local feel. Transportation options may be limited compared to Centro, so a car is recommended.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $450/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.
Compare health insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Earning over $1,500/mo? You may qualify for a Brazil visa.
Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Click any question to expand the answer.
Cost-of-living and visa updates for Saquarema and the rest of Brazil. Free with RA Postcards.
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to RA Postcards and special offers from Rewire Abroad and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.