City Profile
Vilhena, Rondônia
Brazil · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Vilhena is a prominent municipality located in the extreme south of the state of Rondônia, Brazil, often referred to as the 'Gate of the Amazon.' Founded in the 20th century along the telegraph line established by Marechal Cândido Rondon, the city has grown into a vital economic and agricultural hub for the region. People are drawn to Vilhena for its strategic positioning along major federal highways, connecting the northern states to the rest of Brazil. The city maintains a pleasant urban layout with wide avenues, green spaces, and a rapidly expanding commercial sector that serves surrounding agricultural districts.
Rondônia is a Brazilian state in the North Region, characterized by its Amazonian environment, though much of its forest has been cleared since the 1970s for development. The economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and livestock, with major exports including soybeans, frozen and fresh beef, corn, and coffee, alongside mineral extraction like cassiterite (tin ore). Living in Rondônia generally involves a tropical humid climate with high temperatures year-round, and while specific cost of living varies by city, places like Porto Velho and Rondonopolis are considered among the less expensive cities in Brazil. The lifestyle often reflects a blend of frontier history and Amazonian culture, with a focus on agricultural activities and a developing urban infrastructure.
How this 74/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 45.0 | 100.0 | 25% | 25.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $9,500 Income needed to live here: no usable reading Unemployment rate: 5.2% | 60.0 | 20% | 12.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.5% Job growth rate: 2.3% | 64.3 | 15% | 9.6 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 73.5 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Vilhena is generally affordable compared to major Brazilian capitals, though certain imported goods and fuel can carry a premium due to its remote location in the northern region. Housing and local produce remain reasonably priced, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the exorbitant expenses found in coastal metropolitan areas. Utility costs and basic services scale fairly with national averages, though seasonal fluctuations in energy demand can impact monthly household budgets.
Income
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Vilhena's economy is heavily anchored by agribusiness, grain production, cattle ranching, and timber, serving as a major exporter of soy and corn. The commercial and service sectors also provide substantial employment, acting as a regional trade center for southern Rondônia and northwestern Mato Grosso. While traditional agricultural and industrial roles dominate, opportunities in logistics, retail, and healthcare continue to expand steadily. The remote work scene is emerging slowly, supported by improving telecommunications infrastructure throughout the urban center.
The average salary in Vilhena is $650 per year. You would need approximately $500 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Transportation in Vilhena is predominantly centered around private vehicles and local taxi or rideshare services, supported by federal highway BR-365. Public transit options are somewhat limited, making a car or motorcycle standard for daily commuting and regional travel. The city's grid layout keeps traffic congestion relatively low during standard hours, though rush periods see moderate slowdowns near major commercial districts. Walkability is favorable within the central downtown area, but outer residential zones require motorized transport.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Vilhena
What people ask about living in and moving to Vilhena, Rondônia.
How much does everyday life cost in Vilhena compared to larger Brazilian cities?
Vilhena’s cost of living is generally lower than Brazil’s major metropolitan areas. Basic groceries such as rice, beans, meat and fresh produce are priced at regional market rates, which tend to be modest. Utility bills for electricity, water and internet are typically lower than in São Paulo, though they can vary with seasonal climate and household size. Public transport fares are inexpensive, and many residents rel...
What are the typical rental prices for a two‑bedroom apartment in Vilhena?
Rental rates for a two‑bedroom unit in Vilhena are usually lower than in Brazil’s coastal capitals. Prices depend on the neighborhood, proximity to commercial districts, and the condition of the building. In central areas close to schools and markets, rents are modest, while newer developments on the outskirts may be slightly higher. For up‑to‑date listings, browse regional real‑estate portals, check classified secti...
Which sectors are hiring most often in Vilhena right now?
Vilhena’s economy is driven by agriculture, agribusiness, and related logistics services, so companies in grain storage, transportation and equipment maintenance frequently post openings. Retail, education and health services also employ a steady number of staff. To find current vacancies, visit the city’s employment portal, check job boards that focus on the North Region, and look at listings posted by the municipal...
Are there public schools in Vilhena that teach in Portuguese and English?
The public school system in Vilhena follows the national curriculum in Portuguese, but many schools offer supplemental English classes or bilingual programs, especially at the elementary level. To identify schools with strong English support, review the municipal education department’s website, which lists program details for each school. You can also contact the local teachers’ association for recommendations and in...
How safe is it to walk around Vilhena at night?
Vilhena is considered relatively safe compared with larger Brazilian cities, but like any urban area, crime can vary by neighborhood and time of day. Downtown streets are generally well‑lit and patrolled, yet it is advisable to avoid isolated alleys after dark and keep valuables out of sight. The municipal police department publishes regular safety reports and offers a community alert service; checking those updates...
What public transport options are available for daily commuting?
Vilhena’s public transport is primarily operated by the city’s bus network, which runs several routes covering residential districts, commercial centers, and the main market area. Buses run at regular intervals during peak hours and less frequently in the evenings. For detailed route maps, schedules and fare information, consult the municipal transit authority’s website or the information desks at major bus terminals...
Where can I find affordable primary care doctors in Vilhena?
Primary health care in Vilhena is provided through a mix of public health posts and private clinics. The municipal health department maintains a list of accredited family physicians who work in community health centers, offering services at low or no cost for residents. Private practitioners operate in medical offices throughout the city and typically charge modest consultation fees. To locate a suitable doctor, visi...
What outdoor activities are popular for families in Vilhena?
Vilhena is surrounded by natural areas that are ideal for family outings. Nearby parks and riverbanks provide shaded spots for picnics, while the surrounding countryside offers trails for easy to moderate hikes, often used by local schools for field trips. The city also organizes community sports events and cultural festivals in open spaces throughout the year. For specific trail maps and park facilities, consult the...
What should I know about moving household goods into Vilhena?
Inter‑state moves to Vilhena are usually handled by freight companies that specialize in long‑distance transport across the Amazon region. Before hiring, verify that the carrier is licensed for national shipments and ask about insurance coverage for your belongings. Expect a customs‑like clearance process at the state border, where documentation such as a detailed inventory and proof of ownership may be required. To...
What’s the climate like throughout the year in Vilhena?
Vilhena has a tropical savanna climate with a distinct wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. Temperatures are warm year‑round, typically ranging from the low 20s°C (70s°F) at night to the high 30s°C (90s°F) during the day. The wet months bring frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity, while the dry period offers clearer skies and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor pu...
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