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Santa Catarina leads the migration of Brazilians, according to the 2022 Census
Brazilian migration has reached a new level of intensity, and according to data from the 2022 Census released by the IBGE, Santa Catarina leads the national ranking for net migration. First, the survey indicates that approximately 29 million people currently reside in states other than the one in which they were born. This represents approximately 141,000,000 people in Brazil. This internal movement reveals profound changes in the country's migration flows and social dynamics.
On the other hand, traditionally attractive states, such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, showed negative migration balances. São Paulo lost 324,000 inhabitants, while Rio de Janeiro saw a reduction of 249,000 people in its net migration. In contrast, Santa Catarina recorded a significant positive balance. Approximately 354,350 people moved to the state between 2017 and 2022, representing a population increase of 4,66%—the highest proportional rate in the country.
Consequently, the state of Santa Catarina has established itself as the main destination for Brazilian internal migration. In other words, many Brazilians are leaving large urban centers for regions that offer a better quality of life, greater security, and a better balance between work and personal well-being. This movement has led to significant social and economic changes in both the sending and receiving states.
Why has Florianópolis become the top choice for migrants?
Within Santa Catarina, Florianópolis is emerging as a national favorite among Brazilian migrants. The capital of Santa Catarina is not just a tourist hub: it has become a permanent destination for thousands of people seeking a more peaceful, modern, balanced, and healthy lifestyle. Similarly, factors such as public safety, quality of life, infrastructure, and professional opportunities have placed Florianópolis among the most desired cities in the country.
For example, according to the Safest Cities in Brazil Yearbook 2024, Florianópolis It's the safest capital in the country. With a homicide rate of around 10 per 100,000 inhabitants—the lowest among Brazilian capitals—this means that, in a national context of urban insecurity, the city offers a safe haven for families and professionals who prioritize tranquility in their daily lives.
In other words, the capital of Santa Catarina provides an environment where it's possible to balance work, leisure, health, and social life. According to the Quality of Life Index of Brazilian Capital Cities, published in 2024 by IPS Brasil, Florianópolis ranks 4th nationally. This result was driven by indicators such as education, health, housing, and urban mobility.
What awards and recognitions has Florianópolis received?
Therefore, it is no surprise that Florianópolis has accumulated awards and prominent positions in smart and sustainable city rankings. In the Connected Smart Cities 2024 Ranking, the city ranked 1st among capitals in the South region and 6th overall nationally. The survey evaluated mobility, urban planning, technology, innovation, and security—areas in which the city has shown consistent progress.
Furthermore, the Atlas of Human Development in Brazil points out that Florianópolis It has the third-highest HDI among capital cities, with an index of 0.847. Thus, the municipality ensures access to quality healthcare, efficient education, and a high life expectancy—decisive components in the choice of many migrants.
On the other hand, the city also excels in social aspects. The combination of beaches, well-planned urban centers, ecological trails, collaborative communities, and technology hubs creates a favorable environment, whether for friendships or entrepreneurship, physical well-being, or mental health. Therefore, it's not just a question of safety or economics, but of quality of life as a whole.
What important data does the 2022 Census still reveal about Brazilian migration?
In addition to Santa Catarina's impressive migration balance, the 2022 Census provides other relevant data that help better understand Brazilians' migratory behavior. Most migrants come from the Southeast and Northeast regions. States like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, and Pernambuco had the largest negative balances, demonstrating a continued outflow of people seeking more attractive alternatives in other regions of the country.
For example, the Northeast had a negative balance in almost every state, with the exception of Rio Grande do Norte. This indicates that, even with federal investment and growth in some capitals, the region still loses population to states with better social and economic indicators.
Furthermore, the survey shows that most migrants are between 25 and 44 years old—meaning they are economically active, educated, and willing to start over in places that offer more stability and opportunities. This means that migration is increasingly linked to the search for an environment where it is possible to work with dignity, raise children safely, and build a successful career.
Why do security and opportunities explain Brazilians' migration choices?
Let's face it: people move for safety and better opportunities. Even if there are emotional aspects involved, the decision to leave one's hometown almost always has practical roots. Rio de Janeiro, for example, remains a charming city with stunning beaches, a pleasant climate, and a vibrant culture. However, this lifestyle becomes unthinkable when reality imposes daily risks, like leaving for work in the morning and being mugged, or experiencing the panic of crossing dangerous areas to pick up the children from school.
Therefore, it's no surprise that urban insecurity is one of the main drivers of migration. Cities like São Paulo, Belo Horizonte, and Porto Alegre face serious challenges such as violence, theft, and a declining quality of life. Because of this, entire families choose to leave in search of safer cities. Where they can walk in peace, raise their children with less fear, and live with more stability.
Likewise, the lack of opportunities also pushes people out of these large centers. Unemployment, informality, and the high cost of living make it impossible to maintain a decent life in regions where financial returns don't keep up with basic expenses. In other words, migration is a direct response to the social unsustainability of many large urban centers.
Consequently, cities like Florianópolis have begun to attract Brazilians seeking more than a new address—a new life. A place where they can build a healthy routine, with real opportunities for growth, safety on the streets, and a quality of life for the whole family. In other words, Brazilian migration today isn't just an escape—it's a conscious choice for something better.
What makes Florianópolis a model of a desired city for Brazilian migration?
Above all, the city presents an urban model that inspires other capitals: balanced, technological, and safe. Migrants from states such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, and Paraná identify Florianópolis an opportunity for a fresh start. Therefore, beyond the statistical data, there is an emotional factor: the search for belonging and well-being.
Similarly, it can be said that Florianópolis For many, it represents what large metropolises can no longer offer: a more relaxed way of life, connected with nature and people. As a result, the Santa Catarina city has become a symbol of a new phase of Brazilian migration: less driven by escape and more driven by choice.
In conclusion,
Finally, the 2022 Census data confirms Santa Catarina's leadership in Brazilian migration. They also reveal a profound transformation in the destiny of Brazilians. Florianópolis, with its exemplary public safety, high quality of life, and national and international recognition, is the greatest proof that this change goes beyond numbers. It represents the pursuit of a better future. In other words, those who choose Florianópolis is choosing to live well — and that makes all the difference.
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