Brazil's basic food basket consumes 52% of minimum wage

In June 2024 the average cost of Brazil's basic food basket reached R$ 779.95, representing 52.02% of the net minimum wage. A worker would need to work about 105 hours per month, based on an eight‑hour day, to afford the basket.

The price rise reflects a 3.82% increase in the food and beverage component of the IPCA inflation index over the past year. São Paulo recorded the highest basket price at R$ 965.47, consuming 64.39% of the local minimum wage and requiring 131 hours of work. Cuiabá saw the biggest percentage increase (14.71%) while São Luís was the only capital with a slight price decline (‑0.09%). Aracaju remained the cheapest capital despite a 13.12% annual increase.

These figures underline the growing gap between wages and essential living costs across Brazil’s 27 capitals.