By Anna Kaiser, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Continuing coverage of rent prices in Zona Sul (South Zone) from previous years, in 2013 we look to see what R$2,500 per month can rent in Rio’s most sought-after neighborhoods. One of the most expensive areas in Latin America, Zona Sul is popular among Cariocas, expatriates, and tourists alike and has seen a shocking rise in prices in recent years, making a R$2,500 budget afford only limited options.
Known as one of the chicest neighborhoods in Rio, Leblon has a reputation for being a little less touristy and more exclusive. Located along the beach (adjacent to Ipanema) and beneath the Dois Irmãos Mountains, Leblon residents can enjoy tropical tree-lined streets and some of Rio’s best bars and restaurants in a naturally beautiful setting.
Example: This entry-level apartment in Leblon is a 40m² one bedroom, unfurnished apartment for R$2,500 a month. Located on Bartolomeu Mitre in the heart of Leblon, an apartment like this is the cheapest option in this neighborhood, other than a roommate. Amenities include a large chest/closet, new tile throughout, and a 24-hour doorman service.
Approximate average apartment area: 30m²
Approximate average rent per m²: R$69
One of the most famed beach neighborhoods in the world, Ipanema tends to be the go-to spot for many tourists and foreigners living in Rio. It not only has the beach, but also is accessible by public transportation, and is home to some of Rio’s coolest bars and best restaurants, ranging from traditional Brazilian to sushi.
Example: This 35m² furnished, one-bedroom apartment is R$2,200/month. It is located on the last edge of Ipanema before Copacabana and three blocks from Post 8.
Approximate average apartment area: 40m²
Approximate average rent per m²: R$65
Developed in the 1930s and 1940s, Copacabana houses older apartments with a more antique, art deco feel. Most famous for fancy hotels like the Copacabana Palace and the massive beach party held on the neighborhood’s shores every New Years Eve, Copa stretches across over 4km of beach and will be home to one of the city’s four “Olympic Zones” during the 2016 Olympics.
Example: Located in the part of Copacabana known as “Posto 6” (the part that is closer to Ipanema), this 30m² furnished, one-bedroom apartment is R$1,800 a month. It is located one block from the beach and has a 24-hour doorman and a washing machine.
Approximate average apartment area: 35m²
Approximate average rent per m²: R$53
Sometimes referred to as the “new soul of Zona Sul,” Botafogo is one of Rio’s most up and coming neighborhoods. Due to a number of newly opened art museums and stylish international restaurants with renowned chefs, Botafogo is gaining a reputation for being artsy and trendy.
Example: This studio apartment is R$2,000/ month and comes fully furnished. This apartment is more modern and sleek than many others in Rio and is located close to Botafogo beach, shopping, bars and restaurants, and even has a view of the Pão de Açúcar Mountain.
Approximate average apartment area: 42m²
Approximate average rent per m²: R$49
Flamengo is an upper-middle class neighborhood which is popular for its central location between Botafogo, the city center and large open spaces. It is close to the beach, yacht clubs, marinas and the largest park in Rio, Aterro do Flamengo, which runs alongside Guanabara Bay and houses three museums.
Example: This 33 m² furnished, one-bedroom apartment in Flamengo is R$2,000/ month. It is located very close to the metro and Flamengo Beach.
Approximate average apartment area: 38m²
Approximate average rent per m²: R$56
Note these prices are for unfurnished apartments, without any appliances, and do not include condominium fees and IPTU taxes. Depending on the building, in this range of apartments it can add R$250 – R$600 a month. The “seguro fiança,” a type of renters insurance that is often mandatory for long-term leases, is also not included.