🇧🇷 Cost of Living in Brasilia - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$22,338 (2024)
Inflation Rate4.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$1,010 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend26.2% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.6% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Brasilia is generally moderate, with a daily budget for a backpacker ranging from $30-50 USD, mid-range traveler from $60-100 USD, and a comfort seeker from $150-250 USD.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$30-50 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$60-100 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$150-250 USD
CurrencyBRL
Tipping Custom10% expected
How Expensive Is Brasilia?
Brasilia, the capital city of Brazil, has a cost of living that is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in South America. While it is not as expensive as cities like Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, it is still more expensive than many other cities in Brazil. The cost of living in Brasilia is influenced by its status as the capital city, with a high demand for housing, food, and other services. However, compared to global averages, Brasilia is still considered to be relatively affordable, especially for travelers and expats who are used to higher prices in their home countries.
The cost of living in Brasilia is also affected by the city's unique cultural and economic context. As the capital city, Brasilia is home to many government institutions, embassies, and international organizations, which drives up the demand for high-end services and amenities. However, the city also has a thriving cultural scene, with many free or low-cost museums, parks, and cultural events, which can help to offset the costs of living in the city.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$15-30
Basic dorms and private rooms, often with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$40-80
Comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi
Luxury/Resort
$150-300
High-end hotels with amenities like pools, gyms, and fine dining restaurants
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$400-1,000
City center apartments with 1-3 bedrooms, prices vary depending on size and amenities
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$3-6
Casual Restaurant
$10-20
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$30-50
Fine Dining
$60-100
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$1-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$100-300
Fuel (per liter)
$1-2
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
400
800
1,500
Food
300
600
1,200
Transport
100
200
400
Utilities
100
200
300
Entertainment
200
400
800
Total
1,100
2,200
4,200
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel outside of the city center to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls to save on food costs, with meals starting from $3-6 USD.
Use public transportation instead of taxis to get around the city, with fares starting from $1-2 USD.
Take advantage of free or low-cost cultural events and attractions, such as the National Museum or the Cathedral of Brasilia.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets instead of high-end stores to save on groceries and other essentials.
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to help you navigate the city and interact with locals, which can also help you to save money by avoiding tourist traps and overpriced services.