A beacon of business and economic influence, Rio de Janeiro is primed for future growth—and this makes it a popular spot for local and international businesses alike. With so many companies descending upon the city, office space is in high demand and this brings with it tougher competition, increased prices, and higher upfront costs.
Records for the highest rates for commercial real estate bounce between Rio and São Paulo—each home to especially expensive neighborhoods, and ever-growing business sectors. On average, the cost of renting office space in Rio is R$40 per square meter (around $10 USD), and this does not account for furniture, moving costs, phone and internet, or cleaning and office management staff.
Plus, as is the case in any major city, a down payment of up to a year’s rent is typically required to secure a commercial lease in Rio. A business must also commit to a specified length of stay, usually in the form of a fixed-term lease of two years, five years, or 10 years.
This reality is at odds with Rio’s progression toward becoming one of the region’s leading startup hubs—a trend fueled by organizations like Startup Rio, government programs to increase 4G connectivity, and investment from big names including Cisco and Valor Capital. As tech innovation is flourishing in this beautiful metropolis, startups and medium-sized businesses must have access to office space that will scale and evolve with their team.
Workspace solutions like WeWork help with this, providing flexible, monthly agreements to teams of all sizes. The spaces are move-in ready (eliminating the need for build-out costs) and only a 1.5 to 2.5 month retainer is required to secure a space.
Even in some of Rio’s most expensive neighborhoods—including Ipanema and Jardim Botânico—you can find office space that will meet your needs and your budget. Here are five of our favorite Rio neighborhoods for finding flexible office space.
Botafogo
Step into a casual, artsy scene in Botafogo, to the south of the center of Rio and under the gaze of Sugarloaf Mountain. The cutting-edge neighborhood is the birthplace of some of the region’s edgiest movements: Among the eclectic taverns, the famed rock bar Comuna hosts performances, and celebrated watering hole Bar Bukowski is something you won’t want to miss.
It’s not all fashion and music in vibrant Botafogo, however, and the neighborhood is home to an abundance of opportunities for go-getting entrepreneurs. It’s also one of the most affordable places to live in the city.
After you’ve had your share of rock and revelry, WeWork Pasteur 154 is waiting with everything you need to succeed. The 11-floor space features modern amenities and frequent networking events. For downtime, admire Sugarloaf Mountain from one of the outside spaces or spend a moment in our onsite wellness room.
A bonus: The tranquil neighborhood Flamengo is also nearby. This area offers a quiet escape from the adventurous pace of Rio in a tropical blend of landmarks and tree-lined promenades—ideal for weekends or after-work excursions.
Centro
Centro is an invigorating holdover of Brazilian history and culture. The neighborhood is home to world-class museums, old-fashioned streets, and lush green spaces.
For those inspired by art, the Rio de Janeiro Museum of Modern Art is an architectural wonder and holds a wealth of visual pleasures. For foodies, Gloria Street Market boasts culinary delights that attract both locals and tourists.
When the weekend’s over, business professionals and creatives start the work week at WeWork Almirante Barroso 81, a collaborative workspace at the center of Rio’s grandeur.
Here, your team can spread out on six floors of modern co-working spaces that are as lively and diverse as the surrounding neighborhood. Alternatively, opt for an office suite, with your own lounges and conference rooms, for increased privacy. Bike storage and easy access to the metro and monorail make commuting a breeze. Plus, there’s a unique common area for artistic freelancers looking for fresh inspiration.
Barra da Tijuca
A sprawling suburb anchored by a 10-mile stretch of beach, Barra da Tijuca is a kite surfer’s paradise with a prime selection of shops and restaurants. Whether you’re here for the surf, the sea breeze, or to get down to work, this neighborhood has what you need to get the job done. Networking opportunities in fashion, retail, and gastronomy abound. Plus, the number of universities makes recruiting talent simple.
If working between water sports sharpens your productivity, WeWork Helios Seelinger 155 was made with you in mind. Start your week refreshed and ready to take on anything with a full suite of modern resources at this location. From high-speed internet to business-grade printers on all four floors—and a rooftop for particularly sunny afternoons—this office space has everything you need to keep moving forward. Plus, it all comes at a price that won’t break the bank.
Ipanema
Ipanema, known around the world thanks to a hit song in the 1960s, is built on adventure and natural beauty. The neighborhood features brilliant blue skies and pristine beaches, as well as a winning selection of universities and theatres.
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, lush tropical rainforests, and the action of Copacabana, Ipanema is a thriving home for your growing company—and WeWork Visconde de Pirajá 495 makes settling in a breeze.
This collaborative workspace is a prime location for small businesses and enterprise clients. Incredible views, all-inclusive amenities, friendly staff, and free-flowing coffee keep your team comfortable and engaged. And in a neighborhood known for spearheading trends (from eating fresh coconut to beachside fashion), this light-filled workspace lets you grow and scale as you see fit.
With offerings that range from private spaces to hot desks and blazing-fast internet to professional business equipment, there’s a WeWork collaborative workspace that will meet your budget—and exceed your expectations.
