Is the word local the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The meaning, grammar, spelling, and usage of the word "local" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference lies in pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The "l" at the end of a syllable is vocalized, meaning it sounds like a "u" (e.g., lo-ca-u). The vowels are also more open and clear.
• Continental Portuguese: The "l" is a true alveolar lateral (the tip of the tongue touches the roof of the mouth), and the unstressed vowels are much more closed or "reduced," making the word sound shorter and more clipped.

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro a comida local. (I love the local food.)
2. Eu estou procurando um local para a festa. (I am looking for a venue for the party.)
3. O pessoal local é muito legal. (The local people are very cool.)
4. A construção local está ficando pronta. (The local construction is getting ready.)
5. Você conhece algum local legal por aqui? (Do you know any cool place around here?)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu adoro a comida local. (I love the local food.)
2. Estou à procura de um local para a festa. (I am looking for a venue for the party.)
3. A gente local é muito porreira. (The local people are very cool.)
4. A construção local está a ficar pronta. (The local construction is getting ready.)
5. Conheces algum local porreiro por aqui? (Do you know any cool place around here?)