Why Santa Catarina Is a Magnet for New Residents

Santa Catarina has emerged as one of Brazil’s top destinations for internal and international migration. With scenic coastlines, a strong economy, and high quality of life, the state is attracting individuals and families looking for new opportunities. According to recent data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), 503,580 people moved to Santa Catarina between 2017 and 2022, while only 149,230 left. This resulted in the highest positive migration balance in Brazil, totaling 354,350 people.

For comparison, Goiás had a positive balance of 186,800, Mato Grosso 103,900, and Minas Gerais 106,500. São Paulo attracted more newcomers (736,380) but lost even more (825,958), resulting in a negative balance. Rio de Janeiro saw the worst net loss, with a negative migration balance of -165,360.

Migration to Florianópolis and Coastal Cities

Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina, welcomed over 84,600 new residents between 2017 and 2022. This accounted for 15.7% of the city’s population in 2022. In total, 39.1% of residents in Florianópolis today come from other Brazilian states, surpassing the state average of 24.4%.

Other coastal cities such as Balneário Camboriú (21.8%), Palhoça (18.1%), and Itapoá (32.3%) have also become hotspots for domestic migration. In fact, all of the top five municipalities with the highest percentages of newcomers from other states are located along the coast:

• Balneário Gaivota: 32.4%
• Itapoá: 32.3%
• Porto Belo: 30.1%
• Araquari: 28.7%
• Balneário Arroio do Silva: 28.4%

These areas are seeing a boom not only in population but also in real estate development, tourism, and long-term investments.

Florianópolis: A Melting Pot of Newcomers

The capital city’s population is increasingly diverse. In 2022, 15.74% of residents were from Rio Grande do Sul, 6.26% from São Paulo, and 4.93% from Paraná. The share of international immigrants also grew from 1.1% in 2010 to 2.09% in 2022. The majority of foreign-born residents came from Venezuela (29.22%), Argentina (14.51%), the Dominican Republic (4.23%), the United States (3.96%), and Portugal (3.87%).

The state as a whole has seen its foreign population increase more than sixfold in just over a decade—from 11,671 in 2010 to 72,793 in 2022. Venezuelans now form the largest group, with over 26,900 residents, surpassing the Portuguese, Americans, Haitians, and Argentines.

Coastal Boom Towns: Where Migration and Real Estate Meet

The influx of new residents to cities like Balneário Camboriú, Porto Belo, and Itapoá has created a thriving real estate market. These locations are becoming synonymous with high-standard living, world-class infrastructure, and premium lifestyle offerings. Whether it’s beachfront apartments or luxury developments, the demand for quality housing is booming.

Why Choose Rocks Investments?

Navigating Brazil’s dynamic property market requires local expertise, international perspective, and trusted relationships. Rocks Investments specializes in helping international clients buy and invest in Brazilian real estate, particularly in high-growth areas like Santa Catarina.

Our services include:

• Personalized real estate consulting
• Land sourcing and development strategy
• Partnerships with top-tier developers
• Support throughout the legal and financial process
• Bilingual assistance and international relocation guidance

With experience across the UK, Brazil, and global markets, Rocks Investments offers a seamless experience for expats, investors, and luxury buyers looking to tap into Brazil’s most promising regions.

Thinking of Moving or Investing in Santa Catarina?

Whether you’re relocating for lifestyle, investing for returns, or securing a second home by the sea, Santa Catarina offers unmatched opportunities. From Florianópolis to Balneário Camboriú, the market is hot, the lifestyle is enviable, and the potential is undeniable.

Get in touch with our team at rocksinvestments.com to explore your next investment in Brazil’s most vibrant state.