🇧🇷 Cost of Living: Brazil vs French Guiana — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameFederative Republic of Brazil
CapitalBrasília
Population213.4 million
Area8,515,767 km² (3287955 sq mi)
LanguagesPortuguese
CurrencyBrazilian real (R$)
TimezonesUTC-05:00 to UTC-02:00 (4 zones)
RegionAmericas / South America
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
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
Brazil is generally cheaper than French Guiana, with a cost of living that is around 30-40% lower.
Quick Facts
Brazil GDP per Capita (PPP)14,323
French Guiana GDP per Capita (PPP)23,481
Brazil Inflation Rate3.2%
French Guiana Inflation Rate1.4%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Brazil
Overview: Brazil vs French Guiana
Brazil and French Guiana are two distinct countries in South America, with different economic contexts and cost levels. Brazil is a large and populous country with a diverse economy, while French Guiana is a smaller overseas department of France with a more limited economy. As a result, the cost of living in Brazil is generally lower than in French Guiana, with prices for housing, food, and transportation being significantly cheaper. On average, Brazil is around 30-40% cheaper than French Guiana, making it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining their cost levels. Brazil has a large and growing economy, with a strong service sector and a significant industrial base. In contrast, French Guiana's economy is smaller and more dependent on imports, which can drive up prices for goods and services. Additionally, French Guiana's economy is heavily influenced by its relationship with France, which can result in higher prices for certain goods and services. Overall, the combination of Brazil's larger economy and lower cost of living makes it a more affordable option for many people.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Brazil (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
250
450
44% cheaper in Brazil
1BR Apartment (Outside)
180
320
43% cheaper in Brazil
3BR Apartment (City Center)
450
800
43% cheaper in Brazil
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Brazil (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
10
18
44% cheaper in Brazil
Groceries (monthly)
300
500
40% cheaper in Brazil
Beer (500ml)
2
4
50% cheaper in Brazil
Coffee
1.50
3
50% cheaper in Brazil
Transport Comparison
Item
Brazil (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
30
60
50% cheaper in Brazil
Taxi (per km)
1.50
3
50% cheaper in Brazil
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.20
33% cheaper in Brazil
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Brazil (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
100
150
33% cheaper in Brazil
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
30
33% cheaper in Brazil
Mobile Plan
15
25
40% cheaper in Brazil
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Brazil (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Savings
Budget
800
1,200
33% cheaper in Brazil
Mid-Range
1,200
1,800
33% cheaper in Brazil
Comfortable
1,800
2,800
36% cheaper in Brazil
Where Each Country Wins
Brazil is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices being 40-50% lower than in French Guiana
Food and dining, with meals and groceries being 40-50% cheaper
Transportation, with transit passes and fuel being 33-50% cheaper
Utilities and internet, with prices being 33-40% lower
French Guiana is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, which may be cheaper due to its relationship with France
High-end products and services, which may be more readily available in French Guiana
Certain types of tourism and travel, which may be more developed in French Guiana
Education, with access to French-language schools and universities
Bottom Line
Overall, Brazil offers a more affordable lifestyle than French Guiana, with lower prices for housing, food, transportation, and utilities. This makes it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for a low-cost lifestyle. However, French Guiana may offer certain advantages, such as access to high-end products and services, and a more developed tourism industry. Ultimately, the choice between Brazil and French Guiana will depend on an individual's priorities and lifestyle. For those looking for a low-cost lifestyle with a rich cultural experience, Brazil may be the better choice. For those looking for a more developed economy and access to certain amenities, French Guiana may be the better option.