In Itajaí, Brazil, the cost of living has surged, particularly due to the city's high property prices, with its square meter ranking as the fourth most expensive in the country. To cope with this increase, many residents are turning to supercompact apartments, which are defined as living spaces up to 40 square meters that integrate living room, bedroom, and kitchen into a single area. These properties often come equipped with shared facilities, such as restaurants and coworking spaces, catering to a diverse market that includes young professionals, couples without children, and senior citizens, in addition to investors looking for profitable opportunities.

The rise in property prices is staggering, with the cost per square meter in Itajaí climbing by 58% over the last five years, from R$ 8,267 in January 2022 to R$ 13,098 in January 2026 according to the Fipe index. This dramatic increase underscores the pressure placed on potential homebuyers in the region, pushing them to explore smaller and more affordable living options like supercompact apartments. These developments reflect a broader trend in urban housing as cities face the challenge of accommodating growing populations with limited space.

Developers and agents are optimistic about the market for supercompact apartments, noting their increasing popularity among various demographics. As urban areas become denser and more expensive, the real estate industry is likely to continue adapting, offering innovative housing solutions that meet consumer demands for affordability and convenience. In this context, supercompact apartments could become a staple in urban living, representing a shift in how people approach city life amidst financial constraints.