The United States has always exerted an irresistible fascination on people around the world. For many Brazilians, the country represents the pinnacle of success, individual freedom, and unlimited opportunities.
Not surprisingly, the country that receives the most Brazilians in the world is the USA.
But why are Brazilians so attracted to “Uncle Sam’s land”? And out of the 50 American states, do you know which are the places with the most Brazilians in the United States?
In this article, we present the states with the highest concentration of Brazilian communities in the USA, and explore the main reasons why more and more Brazilians are choosing the “land of opportunity” as their new home.
Brazilians in the United States: Concentration by State
According to data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United States continues to be the country that receives the most Brazilians in the world, with an estimated 2.085 million residents from Brazil, according to the “Brazilian Communities Abroad” report of 2023. This number is significantly higher than that registered in Portugal, which ranks second with 513 thousand Brazilians, highlighting the wide preference for these locations.
The publication, which compiles information covering the period from 2009 to 2023, reveals the steady growth of the Brazilian diaspora, with a total of 4.99 million Brazilians living abroad, an increase of 9% compared to the previous year.
Still, according to the study, the American states with the highest concentration of Brazilian communities are:
- New York: 500,000 Brazilians
- Boston: 390,000
- Miami: 295,000
- Orlando: 180,000
- Atlanta: 110,000
- Houston: 100,000
- Los Angeles: 100,000
- Hartford: 70,000
- San Francisco: 65,000
- Chicago: 45,000
- Washington: 45,000
These data correspond to the places with the most Brazilian residents and visitors in the United States. When it comes to only Brazilians with permanent residency, the numbers may vary.
Some surveys and estimates point to the following American states as the main destinations for Brazilians to reside in the USA:
- Florida: Traditionally, Florida, with cities like Miami and Orlando, is the state that houses the largest Brazilian community in the USA. The presence of Brazilians is notable in various sectors, such as tourism, services, and business.
- Massachusetts: States like Massachusetts, with cities such as Boston, concentrate a significant number of Brazilians, many of them with academic backgrounds and working in areas such as technology and education.
- New York: New York City, one of the world’s largest financial centers, also attracts many Brazilians, especially qualified professionals.
- New Jersey: The proximity to New York and the presence of various Brazilian communities make New Jersey another state with a considerable Brazilian population.
- California: Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, with their dynamic economies and cultural diversity, also house a growing Brazilian community.
In addition to major urban centers like New York and Los Angeles (California), cities such as Houston, Chicago, and Atlanta also fall into the category of places with the most Brazilians in the United States.
This is due to the economic diversity and job opportunities in the USA for Brazilian professionals.
Cities like Houston (oil and gas), Chicago (industry and finance), and Atlanta (technology and logistics) attract Brazilian professionals from various fields, driving the growth of their communities
Increased Interest of Brazilians in American Visas and Green Cards
Over the past 5 years, the interest of Brazilians in obtaining Green Cards and living in the USA has only grown.
According to a brief analysis on Google Trends, searches for “”American visa grew by 23.73% from September 2022 to the same period in 2024.
The increase in searches for the much-desired “”Green Card has also increased considerably, reflecting the intention of many Brazilians to secure permanent residency to live in the United States.
Why Live in the USA? 5 Reasons that Lead Brazilians to Live in the USA
The expression “American dream” is not just a cliché. It encapsulates the aspiration of millions of people in search of a better life, whether through a well-paid job, quality education, or greater security.
For Brazilians, in particular, the United States offers a unique set of attractions that sets it apart from other popular destinations, such as Canada or even European countries.
The reasons why Brazilians seek to live in the United States involve a series of personal and professional factors. However, some reasons stand out as the main drivers of this migration:
1. Professional Opportunities
- Job market: The United States offers various opportunities in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and industry.
- Salaries: In general, jobs in the United States offer higher salaries than in Brazil, providing a better quality of life.
- Professional growth: Many American companies offer training and professional development programs, which attract professionals seeking career advancement.
2. Quality of Life
- Safety: One of the main attractions is the perception of greater security in the United States, with crime rates generally lower than in many Brazilian cities.
- Infrastructure: The country has a more developed infrastructure, with good schools, hospitals, public transportation, and basic services.
- Lifestyle: American culture offers a more individualistic lifestyle with various leisure and entertainment options.
3. Education
- Higher education: American universities are recognized worldwide for their excellence, attracting students and professionals seeking high-quality education.
- Study opportunities: There are various scholarship options and exchange programs for Brazilians who wish to study in the USA.
- Education for children: Many parents decide to immigrate to offer superior quality education for their children.
4. Economic and Political Stability
- Economy: The United States has a more stable economy with a lower inflation rate, which generates more confidence in investments.
- Political system: The American political system, although complex, is seen as more transparent and stable by many Brazilians.
5. Family Reunion
- Family: Many Brazilians move to the USA to be closer to family members who already reside in the country.
6. Other Reasons
- Climate: The climate in some regions of the United States, such as Florida, is similar to that of Brazil, which facilitates adaptation.
- Immigration: The possibility of obtaining American citizenship and ensuring a more secure future for oneself and family is a motivating factor for many.
It’s important to emphasize that the decision to move to another country involves challenges and adaptations. Language, culture, and cost of living are some of the aspects that should be considered before making this decision.
Experts highlight that family planning is crucial to avoid unforeseen circumstances and minimize the emotional and financial impacts of immigration. Preparing all family members for the challenges of the process increases the chances of a smooth and successful transition, ensuring safety and stability in the new country.
