Ouro Branco, Brazil

Tourism and heritage preservation dominate the economy here—the UNESCO designation and Baroque architecture draw steady visitor flow, but don't expect tech jobs or corporate offices. The Escola de Minas (mining school) still operates and employs researchers, but most locals work in hospitality, artisan crafts, colonial restoration, or small retail. Income is modest; many expats here either work remotely or live on savings. The gold-rush economy peaked 300 years ago; today's economy is built on preserving what's left.

A 1BR in the historic center runs $380/month; utilities add another $60–80. Portuguese is essential—English is rare outside tourist zones. Healthcare exists but serious issues require travel to Belo Horizonte (90km away). Bureaucracy for residency is standard Brazilian friction: expect visa delays and document repetition. Transport is walkable within the old town, but you'll need a car or long-distance buses for anything beyond. Winter (June–July) drops to freezing; bring layers.

Weekends mean hiking the Serra do Espinhaço, visiting baroque churches, or day-tripping to nearby colonial towns. The expat community is tiny—mostly retirees and remote workers, not a social scene. Food is regional Brazilian: simple, heavy, good. The city feels genuinely quiet, almost sleepy outside peak tourist season. This suits remote workers seeking low cost and historical immersion, not people needing nightlife, career growth, or a large English-speaking community.