Areas and suburbs in Sao Paulo

The best places to live in São Paulo

Finding suitable areas and suburbs in São Paulo can be challenging, owing to the city’s immense geographic size. Choosing the right property in the right area or suburb of São Paulo will be essential to having a pleasant experience in Brazil for newly arrived expats.

In this ever-expanding city, every expat is sure to find a neighbourhood and accommodation that meets their budget and requirements. Below are a few areas and suburbs of São Paulo that are particularly popular among expats.

Family-friendly areas in São Paulo

Chácara Flora

Chácara Flora is an exclusive area in Santo Amaro, one of São Paulo’s largest suburbs. This is a family-friendly area with secure housing and ample green space. Like Morumbi, Chácara Flora is home to many good international schools, which accounts for its popularity among expat families.

Residents have easy access to supermarkets, restaurants, retail facilities, and services. Public transport links are plentiful, as Chácara Flora is near Congonhas Airport in neighbouring Campo Belo. This proximity appeals to executives who need domestic flights for work.

International Schools in São Paulo 
Work in São Paulo

Morumbi

One of the most significant draws of Morumbi is that it is a lot less polluted than areas close to the city centre. It is also home to several lovely green spaces, such as Alfredo Volpi Park, and is close to Burle Marx Park. Expats with children find it an excellent location. The area is popular with expat families and hosts many reputable international schools. Morumbi has plenty of facilities, such as shops and cafés. It is also close to one of São Paulo’s top healthcare facilities, Albert Einstein Hospital.

Healthcare Facilities in São Paulo

Jardins

Comprising four neighbourhoods, Jardins is one of the most exclusive areas in São Paulo that boasts stately residences on tree-lined streets. You’ll enjoy the numerous green spaces and gardens and the variety of fantastic amenities, including bars, restaurants, markets, and entertainment venues.

Alphaville

Located about 12 miles (20km) from central São Paulo in the municipalities of Barueri and Santana de Parnaíba, Alphaville has a small-town atmosphere. Expats can find everything from luxury apartments to functional single-family homes in the area. Many properties come with a swimming pool and large outdoor areas.

Alphaville is a safe and pleasant place to live. Residents are, however, somewhat isolated. Public transport links in Alphaville are limited. Even commuting by car to São Paulo can be frustrating due to the traffic on the highway.

Accommodation in São Paulo 
Public Transport in São Paulo

Areas for young expats in São Paulo

Brooklin Novo

Brooklin Novo is a magnet for younger expats drawn to one of São Paulo’s most coveted neighbourhoods, a modern business hub that puts them in the heart of the action.

Most of the area is residential. Retail facilities mainly consist of small, local shops rather than big chain shops. There are several parks and green spaces, which make it an attractive area for expats with pets.

Santa Cecília

Expats looking for cheaper property in an area known for its historic charm should consider living in Santa Cecília. This neighbourhood is close to São Paulo’s city centre and is home to many old-style churches and buildings. Santa Cecília has traditionally been sought after by São Paulo’s artistic community, but it is now becoming popular with young expats who have moved to the city to teach English or do volunteer work.

There are downsides to living in the area, such as the high levels of noise and pollution. The neighbourhood’s Bohemian atmosphere and low accommodation costs help most residents overlook these factors. There are many lively bars and restaurants in the area. Its central location also gives expats easy access to facilities within São Paulo.

Vila Madalena

Vila Madalena is São Paulo’s most Bohemian neighbourhood and plays host to many of the city’s artists and musicians. It is favoured by young expats and international students and hosts a sizeable selection of bars and clubs. The area can get noisy, especially in the evenings and on weekends. As such, it may not be particularly suitable for expats with children.

Another drawcard is that Vila Madalena is well connected to other parts of São Paulo by public transport. Expats looking to own a car should note that traffic congestion in this part of the city can be a problem during peak hours.