Single · Comfortable · $3,000/mo

GramadoOverall winner

Tepic is approximately 30% less expensive than Gramado based on cost of living including rent. This makes Tepic a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.

Tepic has a FIRE Score of 77/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The city's safety index is 45.49, suggesting moderate safety levels.

Recommended profile: Tepic is ideal for GeoArbitragers and remote workers looking to maximize savings.

Side by side

Best in row

Mexico

Tepic

Increased Caution
FIRE77

Brazil

Gramado

Increased Caution
FIRE87
Cost
Cost of living index
38.4
-
One person, excluding rent
Best in row. $595/mo
$1,550/mo
Family of four, excluding rent
Best in row. $2,150/mo
$5,600/mo
Total monthly, rent included
$735/mo
Best in row. $713/mo
Monthly savings
$2,265/mo
Best in row. $2,287/mo
Housing
1BR, city centre
Best in row. $380
$493
1BR, outside centre
Best in row. $300
$305
3BR, city centre
Best in row. $750
$932
3BR, outside centre
$779
Best in row. $588
Scores
FIRE score
Best in row. 83/100
68/100
Nomad score
30/100
Best in row. 48/100
Retiree score
51/100
Best in row. 59/100
Overall score
77/100
Best in row. 87/100
Safety & infrastructure
Safety index
45.5
Best in row. 75
Internet speed
43 Mbps
43 Mbps
Walkability score
-
-

Estimates from published local prices. N/A means no figure is published for that city.

About these cities

About Gramado

Gramado is a charming highland town that delivers serious value for budget-conscious expats, with a comfortable single lifestyle running just $951/mo and a mid-range budget at $676/mo. The safety index of 75 and crime index of 25 make it a secure base, though the average local salary of $604/mo means you'll need remote income or savings to live well. Winters can drop to -3°C, which is a shock for those expecting tropical Brazil, but the low cost of living and strong FIRE score of 89 make it a standout for early retirees. Just be ready for limited English and a small expat community, so learning Portuguese is non-negotiable.

About Brazil

Retirees with fixed dollar income near the $2,000 VITEM XIV threshold get accessible cost of living (rent under $400) paired with genuine safety risk, a 35.5 safety index that outweigh the cheap rent math. Fine for someone prioritizing budget and expat community over personal security. Bad fit for anyone needing English-language ease, a fast PR pathway, or low-crime peace of mind.

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Tepic vs Gramado -- Frequently Asked Questions

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