The Cost of Living in South Africa | An Expert Guide

South Africa, the southernmost country on the African continent, offers a wide range of living experiences and costs across its major urban centers. With a population of approximately 60 million people, South Africa combines first-world infrastructure with developing nation prices in many areas, though costs can vary significantly by location and standard of living.

South Africa's economy is the second-largest in Africa, driven by mining, manufacturing, financial services, and tourism sectors. The country provides a sophisticated business environment in major cities, while maintaining relatively affordable living costs compared to many Western nations, particularly for those earning in foreign currencies.

The expatriate community in South Africa is concentrated primarily in specific suburbs of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria, with smaller populations in Durban and Port Elizabeth. Many are drawn by opportunities in finance, technology, and mining sectors, along with the country's natural beauty and relatively affordable lifestyle.

‍

Regional Comparison

‍

Housing Costs in South Africa

Housing costs in South Africa vary significantly between cities and neighborhoods. In upscale areas of Cape Town and Johannesburg, a one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 12,000-18,000 ZAR monthly, while similar accommodations in middle-range areas cost 8,000-12,000 ZAR. Security is a major consideration, with many expatriates choosing gated communities or secure complexes.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (upscale areas): 12,000-18,000 ZAR/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (middle-range): 8,000-12,000 ZAR/month
• Rent, secure complex: 15,000-25,000 ZAR/month

‍

Food Costs in South Africa

Food expenses in South Africa can be quite reasonable, particularly for local products. A meal at a casual restaurant costs 120-200 ZAR, while dinner at an upscale restaurant might run 250-500 ZAR per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like Woolworths or Pick n Pay typically costs 3,000-5,000 ZAR for one person, though prices vary significantly between budget and premium stores.

Summary:

• Casual restaurant meal: 120-200 ZAR
• Upscale dinner: 250-500 ZAR
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 3,000-5,000 ZAR

‍

Transportation Costs in South Africa

Transportation in South African cities primarily relies on private vehicles due to limited public transport options. Ride-hailing services like Uber are widely used in urban areas, with a typical journey costing 60-150 ZAR. Many expatriates own cars, with associated costs including insurance and security features. Monthly car expenses, including fuel, can range from 2,500-4,000 ZAR.

Summary:

• Ride-hailing (short trip): 60-150 ZAR
• Monthly car expenses: 2,500-4,000 ZAR
• Public transport (where available): 500-1,000 ZAR/month

‍

Healthcare Costs in South Africa

Healthcare in South Africa operates through both public and private systems. Private health insurance, which most expatriates use, typically costs 1,500-3,000 ZAR monthly per person. A consultation at a private clinic costs 500-900 ZAR, while specialist visits range from 800-1,500 ZAR. Most expatriates use private healthcare facilities in major cities.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 1,500-3,000 ZAR/month
• Doctor's consultation: 500-900 ZAR
• Specialist visit: 800-1,500 ZAR

‍

Utility Costs in South Africa

Utility costs in South Africa can be significant, particularly with regular power outages requiring backup systems. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection typically range from 1,500-2,500 ZAR for an apartment. Internet service costs 800-1,200 ZAR monthly for reliable fiber connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 300-600 ZAR monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 1,500-2,500 ZAR/month
• Internet: 800-1,200 ZAR/month
• Mobile phone plan: 300-600 ZAR/month

‍

Example Monthly Expenses in South Africa

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in an upscale area:

• Rent (1-bedroom, secure complex): 15,000 ZAR
• Utilities: 2,000 ZAR
• Food: 4,000 ZAR
• Transportation: 3,000 ZAR
• Healthcare (insurance): 2,000 ZAR
• Internet/Phone: 1,500 ZAR
• Entertainment: 3,000 ZAR
• Total: 30,500 ZAR

‍

‍

‍

If you want to know more about South Africa and the cost of living there you can also check out the South Africa page.