Data updated Oct 9, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 68)
Bertioga, Brazil, sits at just 4 meters above sea level along the coast of Sao Paulo state, 33 kilometers from GRU airport. Its tropical climate draws a small expat community, with popular neighborhoods including Riviera de Sao Lourenco and Centro. The city's population of 67 thousand gives it a relaxed, beach-town feel, while the proximity to the international airport keeps it connected.
Living costs in Bertioga are notably low. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $299/mo, dropping to $199/mo outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre costs $498/mo, or $399/mo outside. Monthly utilities run $66, internet is $18, and a mobile phone plan is $10. A gym membership costs $30/mo. An inexpensive restaurant meal is $6 per person, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is $18, and a cappuccino is $2. The cost of living index stands at 52/100 (NYC = 100). For a single adult, budget-tier total expenses including rent are $301/mo, mid-range totals $455/mo, and comfortable totals $623/mo. Excluding rent, a single person's monthly costs are $720/mo, while a family of four spends $2,200/mo.
Safety and healthcare are moderate. The safety index is 55/100, with a crime index of 45/100 (lower is safer). Healthcare quality is rated as Fair. English proficiency among locals is Limited, which may require some Portuguese for daily interactions. The air quality index is 45 (lower is better), and average internet speed is 35 Mbps.
For visas, Brazil offers the VITEM XIV retirement visa, requiring a minimum monthly income of $2,000/mo, and the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa, requiring a minimum monthly income of $1,500/mo. Bertioga's overall expat score is 68/100, with a FIRE score of 70/100, a retiree score of 53/100, and a digital nomad score of 59/100. The city suits budget-conscious retirees, remote workers, and those seeking a low-cost coastal lifestyle near Sao Paulo.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Bertioga, Brazil. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Bertioga at the budget tier comes to about $409 a month for one adult, with $199 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $66.00 on groceries, $24.00 on dining out, $27.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $93.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$199/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$66.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$24.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$27.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$93.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Bertioga at the mid-range tier comes to about $514 a month for one adult, with $199 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $88.00 on groceries, $60.00 on dining out, $74.00 on entertainment and lifestyle and $93.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$199/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$88.00/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$60.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$74.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$93.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Bertioga at the comfortable tier comes to about $713 a month for one adult, with $299 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $123 on groceries, $90.00 on dining out, $108 on entertainment and lifestyle and $93.00 on utilities and connectivity.
Rent
$299/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$123/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$90.00/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$108/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$93.00/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 $298.96/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 Bertioga's cost of living compares with Cianorte
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Bertioga is a coastal beach town with moderate safety concerns typical of smaller Brazilian municipalities. While violent crime rates are lower than major urban centers, petty theft, burglary, and opportunistic robbery remain present—especially in less developed neighborhoods inland from the beach. The beachfront and central areas are generally safer during daylight. Avoid displaying valuables, use registered taxis or ride-apps, and be cautious after dark. For a remote worker or retiree seeking a quieter Brazilian coastal lifestyle, Bertioga is reasonably viable if you maintain standard expat precautions and stay in established residential or tourist zones.
Bertioga has a safety index of 55/100. 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 Bertioga's healthcare compares with Cianorte
Bertioga has a tropical humid climate with hot, wet summers (December-March, 38°C peaks) and mild, drier winters (June-August, 12°C lows), featuring consistently high humidity (83%) and frequent rainfall year-round.
Offers beautiful beaches, though digital infrastructure could be better.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Coworking Bertioga | Located in Centro, this coworking space offers a relaxed atmosphere with dedicated desks and meeting rooms. It's a good option for those seeking a local vibe and affordable rates. |
| Escritório Virtual Bertioga | Providing virtual office services and coworking, this space in Centro offers a professional environment. It's suitable for those needing a formal business address and occasional 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 Bertioga 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 Bertioga? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Bertioga's digital nomad life compares with Cianorte
A coastal city in São Paulo. Riviera de São Lourenço is a high-end, extremely safe planned community popular with wealthy residents.
Areas of Bertioga 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 commercial and residential
The heart of Bertioga, Centro offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and apartments. While convenient for amenities, it can be noisy and crowded, and English is not widely spoken. Good for those who want to be in the middle of the action and don't mind a more local experience.
Relaxed beachfront residential area
Located along the beach, Indaiá offers a quieter residential atmosphere with a mix of houses and apartments. It's a good option for those seeking a more relaxed pace of life close to the ocean. While not as developed as Riviera, it still has essential services and is relatively safe.
Affordable residential family area
A more budget-friendly option further from the beach, Vista Linda is a residential neighborhood popular with local families. It's less touristy and offers a glimpse into everyday Brazilian life. Public transport is available, but a car is recommended for exploring the wider area. English proficiency is low.
Secluded beach and nature
Located further from the city center, Guaratuba offers a more secluded and natural environment with beautiful beaches and hiking trails. It's ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and enjoying outdoor activities. Services are limited, and a car is essential. Language barrier is significant.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $299/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 Bertioga 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.