Expert: Edison - 3/21/2007

Question
Hey Edison, nice to find you here...
I reach retirement age at the end this year and am considering returning to my mother land, Brasil. I have been in the USA for 42 years. I'm wondering how well I can live on my Social Security check of around U$ 1,500.00 per month. I would like to live either in Fortaleza, CE or Florianopolis, SC not on the beach but close enough. I heard from friends that these are nice cities to live in. Any "tips" that you can give me would be appreciated.
Thanks, Desi...


Answer
Hello Desi,

Fortaleza and Florianopolis are really good cities to live and with nice beaches.

Fortaleza is closer to the Equator and "summer" all year around (like Miami).

Florianopolis is on South part of Brazil and a little cold in the winter. It is more expensive, better standard of living and safer than Fortaleza.

The cost of living in Brazil depends on where you live and what you expect - maiden services, frequency of eating outside, cost rent/location. I believe that you could have a good life with US$1,500/month.

Just for your reference: The minimum wage in Brazil is around US$200 per month. Income levels in Brazil: poor - less than US$500/month. Lower middle class: US$500 to US$1,000/month. Middle class: US$1,000 to US$2,000/month. High Middle class: US$2,000 to US$5,000/month.

Brazil has a "free" health system, but I would recommend you to buy a private insurance (US$200-350/ month) for better and faster services.

Enjoy Brazil,

Edison