Verdict: Medellin is 20% cheaper — saving you $197/month ($2,364/year)
Medellin ($778/mo)
Sao Paulo ($975/mo)
1BR Apartment (Center)
$450
$550
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$280
$320
Cheap Meal
$4
$5
Mid-Range Meal
$10
$15
Transit Pass
$25
$35
Utilities
$45
$60
Internet
$18
$20
Groceries
$120
$160
CategoryMedellinSao PauloDifference
1BR Apartment (Center)$450$550$-100
1BR Apartment (Outside)$280$320$-40
Cheap Meal$4$5$-1
Mid-Range Meal$10$15$-5
Transit Pass$25$35$-10
Utilities$45$60$-15
Internet$18$20$-2
Groceries$120$160$-40
Total Estimated$778$975$197 (20%)

Safety Index

Medellin: 42/100

Sao Paulo: 40/100

Average Monthly Salary

Medellin: $600

Sao Paulo: $900

Relocating to Medellin?

Save on your move with these essential services for expats and remote workers.

Full Medellin Guide
Costs, tips & more →
Full Sao Paulo Guide
Costs, tips & more →

More Comparisons

medellin vs tokyo
Japan
$1,980/mo
medellin vs osaka
Japan
$1,598/mo
sao paulo vs fukuoka
Japan
$1,280/mo
sao paulo vs sapporo
Japan
$1,195/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Medellin cheaper than Sao Paulo?

Medellin is approximately 20% cheaper.Medellin costs around $778/month vs Sao Paulo at $975/month. That is a saving of $197/month ($2,364/year).

Which city has cheaper rent — Medellin or Sao Paulo?

Medellin has cheaper rent.Medellin charges $450/month for a city-center 1BR, while Sao Paulo is $550/month.

Which city is safer — Medellin or Sao Paulo?

Medellin is safer, with a safety index of 42/100 vs 40/100.