cost of living in south africa

Like most global countries the South African currency, the rand has fallen which is why the cost of living would appear … The social security system in South Africa is complex. According to the Mercer's 2009 Cost of Living survey Tokyo is the most expensive city for expatriates; Johannesburg is the cheapest. The current rate stands at 2% and is paid by employers. With that said, Pretoria only ranked at number 252. You have to phone ahead and order taxis ahead of schedule, though: taxis cannot just be flagged down in the street. To calculate each city's Price Index value, we start by assigning a value of 100 to a central reference city (that happens to be Prague). A cost of food score of 1 indicates most expensive while a 10 represents cheapest. The cost of living in South Africa is fairly reasonable when compared to some other western countries. It’s impossible to make broad categorizations about the countless facets of living in South Africa, which is famous for its diversity — best go experience it yourself! Public transportation is fairly limited in South African cities. One of the best ways to decide what your living cost could be is to check through the major grocery stores like … A single traveler costs: $1,556 per month. Below are specifics you need to know about basic groceries and accommodation; Milk- 10.00R. This site uses functional cookies and external scripts to improve your experience. Mobile version International students also need to pay a flat course fee of R37,800. We also have on this page a list of all the cities available in Expatistan: List of all the cities available in Expatistan. South Africa; Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 3,564.10 $ (54,298.43 R) 1,276.59 $ (19,448.55 R) -64.18 %: Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate: 4.17: 10.13 +143.05 %: Last update: December 2020: December 2020: Contributors in the past 12 months: 19355: 1174 In fact the 2012 Mercer rankings put Johannesburg in 154th place and Cape Town 179th. Find out what is the real equivalent in South Africa of your current salary and improve your chances of a happy relocation. We provide several metrics to compare the cost of living including cost of groceries, transportation, and more. Cost of living in South Africa: Durban 63% less expensive than New York 58% more expensive than London 51% more expensive than Paris 54% less expensive than Tokyo 52% more expensive than Los Angeles The only condition is that property must be endorsed as non-resident even if you are living in the country full-time, as non-residents have to pay capital gains tax when you sell the property. The average monthly cost for transport is as low as R500–R650 for buses and trains. Breakdown of prices in Johannesburg, South Africa for housing, food, transportation, going out for December 2020. Expatica uses technology such as cookies and scripts to personalize content and ads, provide social media features, and analyze our traffic. Because most fruit, vegetables, and meat are sourced locally, prices are kept low. © 2009-2020 Expatistan.com, List of all the cities available in Expatistan, Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district, Combo meal in fast food restaurant (big mac meal or similar), 500 gr (1 lb.) The cost of living in the South Africa is higher than you might expect thanks to an emerging economy and the strengthening of the South African rand. However, workers have the option to take out their own pension plan to save for retirement. Let’s take a look at what they cost around 30 years ago … You may change your settings at any time. Have a cookie Expatica helps make your expat journey the experience you've always wanted. A cost of food score of 1 indicates most expensive while a 10 represents cheapest. Cost of living in South Africa South Africa remains relatively cheap in comparison to many western countries. The economy in South Africa is on the rise. While the cost of living in South Africa is considerably lower than the United States, poverty is still a problem. The cost of food in South Africa is equal to South Africa average and earns a score of 4 out of 10. As of the end of 2018, house prices in South Africa remained well below the highs seen a decade earlier, with below-inflation growth of 3.7% year-on-year. Use this guide to see if you can afford to purchase real estate in South Africa, attend school, set up utilities, dining out, and more. Monthly rent costs: $345 per month. Cost of Living in South Africa; Cost of Living in South Africa. South Africa has much more in store for expats than you might expect. Eggs (12) – 18.00R . "I love the unbridled craziness of South Africa. Click below to consent to the use of this technology on our website – and don’t worry, we respect your privacy. Basic broadband packages in South Africa start at around R600 but can be as much as R1,500. Your choices will not impact your visit. Rather than calculating the exact amount, a set amount of R3–R5 per kilometer is common. South African manufacturing production and the rand (an update) ... February’s National Budget Speech would have had an impact on your cost of living. Much has changed in South Africa since the 1980’s including prices of everyday goods, which have become overbearingly expensive due to the economy. That is according to Airports Country South Africa, which claims that every long-haul direct flight supports as many as 3,000 jobs. Pretoria is South Africa and Africa’s most expensive city while Durban is South Africa’s cheapest city of those that ranked. For the same standard of living, your money goes a lot further in Durban than other South African cities. However, South Africa is still a much more affordable country to live in than most European, Asian and North American countries. As is usually the case, the cost of living in South African cities is higher than in rural towns, and most expats either move to Cape Town or Johannesburg. Social grants have helped, but President Jacob Zuma said in 2011 that the grants are not sustainable. However, many South Africans are still paid quite poorly. Johannesburg is 73% cheaper than New York City. Applicants should constantly check the exchange rates and be aware of how much they require in the way of funds. Each tax bracket has to pay a set taxable rate and then a percentage of earnings over the amount set by each tax bracket. My quality of life has improved vastly from Vancouver. Yet it is highly advisable for expats to take out private healthcare for the entire family. This map shows only the top cities in South Africa. Cost of living The unit of currency in South Africa is the South African rand (ZAR or simply R). Do you know how much money you will need there to maintain your current standard of living? Fast foods such as a McDonald’s value meal is under R75 and sandwiches are around R43. database is calculated by comparing their cost of living to the cost of living in Prague. How does South Africa’s living cost compare to that of other countries? Eating out, beer and entertainment can be as much as 50% lower in South Africa than they are in Europe, for instance. Cost of Living in South Africa Select city in South Africa: Cost of living in South Africa is 42.00% lower than in United States (aggregate data for all cities, rent is not taken into account). I get frustrated often, I laugh a lot, and I’m never bored. The cost of food in Durban is less expensive than South Africa average and earns a score of 5 out of 10. Living cost. This is significantly lower than first world nations but is considerably higher than the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa with the exception of … It is quite difficult to determine what the cost of living in South Africa can be as living costs largely depend on an individual’s spending habit, taste and to a great extent, where you are coming from. The cost of living index indicates the difference in the cost of living between the two locations. Key Regional Statistics. Please help us update it. According to the latest South African census figures, there are around 2.2 million foreign-born residents living in South Africa… For most expats, the cost of educating your child at a private school in South Africa is probably less expensive than in your own country. The exception is South Africa, where ABSA Group releases good house price data, and has a monthly house price index. Luxury items and imported foods, including potatoes, are priced slightly higher and can increase the cost of your shopping bill. The color of each marker corresponds with the cost of living in the city red markers show more expensive cities green ones show cheaper cities Numbeo’s 2020 Cost of Living Index compares the cost of living of 440 cities around the world. Avoid companies that reserve the right to cancel a policy if you have a critical illness or reach a certain age. Hello, If the living expence in south africa is more then R 10000, so how can manage a couple family. Bread (500g)-9.38R. Nothing seems to make sense, even after living here for almost a year. The cost of living in the South Africa is higher than you might expect thanks to an emerging economy and the strengthening of the South African rand. of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans), 1 month of gym membership in business district, Volkswagen golf 1.4 tsi 150 cv (or equivalent), with no extras, new in, Sport shoes (nike, adidas, or equivalent brands) in, Summer dress in a high street store (zara, h&m or similar retailers) in, Microwave 800/900 watt (bosch, panasonic, lg, sharp, or equivalent brands) in. Therefore, if a city has a Price Index of 134, that means that living there is 34% more expensive than living in Prague. After the first year, you can pay monthly at a rate of R 26. The cost of dining out is relatively inexpensive compared to many other countries around the world. Family of four estimated monthly costs: R 36,636. Summary of cost of living in South Africa. In Mercer’s Quality of Living Survey 2018, three South African cities ranked in the top 100: Durban was ranked the highest (87th), whilst Cape Town (94th) and Johannesburg (95th) were not far behind. Broadband and television costs are comparable to most European countries. The cost of living in South Africa is lower than most developed countries so this shouldn’t be a worry if South Africa is a prospective education site for you. Renting a house is also very affordable for expats living in the suburbs, but it is a different story in the city center. The most cost-effective method is to hire a nanny. ), 1 min. Despite a recent wave of government reforms, healthcare for most South Africans is unaffordable. What you people think about this. What is the Cost of Living Index? Parents that work full-time have plenty of childcare options in South Africa. For more information on economic indicators such as consumer inflation and taxation news, consult Statistics South Africa. A family costs: $1,875 per month. In general, a lunchtime meal will cost no more than R115. The healthcare system is at odds in South Africa. Are you moving to South Africa? In this video I summarize the average cost of living in Cape Town (South Africa) showing prices and expenses of living. On average, healthcare insurance ranges between R 1,100 and R 2,200 per month for a family of four. Full version If you want to make a direct comparison between the cost of living in the USA versus South Africa, a good website to visit is mylifeelsewhere.com. South African Economy South Africa, has a GDP Per Capita as of 2014 of around $6,500, meaning the average person earning something around that a year. Yes, there it is in black and white. Industries including manufacturing, service, agriculture, and mining are also flourishing and the rand is performing well against other currencies. South Africa is the economic powerhouse of the African continent and although its cost of living is very affordable, it is not as rock-bottom cheap as so many of the under-developed third world African countries. Tax rates in South Africa range from 18% to 45% depending as follows: Read more in our guide on tax liabilities in South Africa. The cost of living in South Africa are likely to differ to that of your home country. South African public transportation is remarkably affordable, although most people use taxis. Value Added Tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services in South Africa. Average Living Costs; The average rate is around $1 = R12.00 – R15.00. Below is a breakdown of how much it costs to live in the largest South African cities compared to other major cities around the world. COST OF LIVING AS A STUDENT IN SOUTH AFRICA. First-time buyer properties in most areas can be purchased for well below R1,500,000. They charge between R5,500–R13,000 per month depending on their age, experience and where you live. Which cookies and scripts are used and how they impact your visit is specified on the left. Au pairs must also be offered a room and meals. Taxis are also inexpensive and range between R60 and R120 for short journeys. However, students should also factor in general living costs, which are considerably lower in South Africa than in Europe or North America. Although the rand experiences a significant amount of fluctuation, banking, commerce, and basic infrastructure rivals other developing countries. It is also possible to hire an au pair to look after your children. Expat life in SA offers better value compared to other cities of the same development status. Cost of living in South Africa: Utilities – water, gas, electricity, Social security and pension prices in South Africa, R195,851–R305,850: 26% (R35,253 plus 26% of taxable income above R195,850), R305,851–R423,300: 31% (R63,853 plus 31% of taxable income above R305,850), R423,301–R555,600: 36% (R100,263 plus 36% of taxable income above R423,300), R555,601–R708,310: 39% (R147,891 plus 39% of taxable income above R555,600), R708,311+: 41% (R207,448 plus 41% of taxable income above R708,310), R1,500,001+: 45% (R532,041 plus 45% of taxable income above R1,500,000). Some nannies, or night nurses, can also take care of your child overnight for R320–R430, which is less expensive than a babysitter that charges between R50–70 an hour. Of course, the cost of a meal depends where you choose to eat, as there are high-end restaurants in South Africa that can be costly yet still around half the price you would pay for a comparable meal in Europe, Australia, North America and most countries in Asia. In the 2012 Mercer cost of living rankings Johannesburg (154) and Cape Town (179) fall 23 and 21 places respectively on the previous year, reflecting the considerable weakening the South African rand has suffered against the US dollar in the last year. It really does exist, people. Chicken (1kg) – 48.00R. Think more of South Africa as a country of duality. This includes a monthly salary and income you receive from overseas capital such as rent. This is due to its favorable climate, affordable living costs, and sizeable expat population. According to Numbeo, utility bills cost around R 1,200 per month. The following are collected for use in calculating cost of food: meats, dairy products, produce, bakery products, miscellaneous grocery products, fast food, and average casual restaurant. The following are collected for use in calculating cost of food: meats, dairy products, produce, bakery products, miscellaneous grocery products, fast food, and average casual restaurant. The Cost of Living in Johannesburg is low. The average grocery bill for essentials is estimated to be around R2,300–2,900. Online salary comparison calculator to compare the cost of living standards in South Africa, Johannesburg and South Africa, Cape Town. Cost of living in Pretoria: the Cost of living in South Africa. If you have a large appetite for luxury products then your living costs can be way up the roof. Having said that, the general cost of living in South African cities is considerably cheaper than the majority of major cities around the world. Television licenses in South Africa are R270 for the first year and must be paid in full. Most insurance policies only cover you for five years. South Africa only has 23 public universities and the cost of an education in the country is considerably higher than many European countries. Key Buy-to-Let Comparisons. Cost of living in South Africa compared to United Kingdom. How much do you need to live comfortably in South Africa? Universities fees in Cape Town in 2019 range from R51,000 per year to R82,000, depending on the course. Read our guide on the social security system in South Africa for more information. Have more accurate data for the cost of living in South Africa? Evening meals in an inexpensive mid-range restaurant will cost on average between R215 and R500. You can of course change your mind and withdraw your consent at any time, by returning to this site after clearing the cookies on your computer or device. What is the Cost of Living Index? central reference city (that happens to be Prague). It is possible to enjoy a gourmet four-course meal for around R575–R650 per person. Compare that to London which came in at the 25th most expensive place to live. Clothing and consumer items, on the other hand, are only marginally less expensive. We live in a nicer house, eat better food, etc." Rent in South Africa is, on average, 61.03% lower than in United States. There's an abundance of options for accommodation in South Africa, and it shouldn’t take long for expats to find a home that suits their budget and lifestyle. Read more about Phil's expat experience in South Africa. You can find a three-bedroom house with a front and back garden for around R6,500–R15,000, whereas an equivalent apartment in the city is R7,000–R25,000. Yet you will still find the overall cost of your trip very reasonable. If husband doing a middle class job, i think he will not get every month more then R 5000 per month. South Africa is a popular destination for expat retirees. The average cost for a one-way journey is R16. Property prices in South Africa are significantly lower than most European countries, North America, Australia, and much of Asia. To calculate each city's Price Index value, we start by assigning a value of 100 to a Prices for general foodstuffs in South Africa is quite affordable for expats that earn a reasonable salary. The figures are to be used as guidelines only. Cost of accommodation in South Africa. Travel expenses on behalf of the family should also be remunerated. However, South Africa is still a much more affordable country to live in than most European, Asian and North American countries. If you have been living and working in South Africa for more than 183 days, you are eligible to pay personal income tax on your personal income. 4. Au pairs that work fewer hours demand a higher hourly rate to compensate for the loss of earnings. Cost of Living Comparison Calculator. Utility costs cover water, electricity, gas, and waste disposal. When you take out health insurance, read the policy carefully to determine what it covers. Once the reference point has been established, the Price Index value of every other city in the Year to R82,000, depending on the other hand, are priced slightly higher and can increase the cost food! Under R75 and sandwiches are around R43 only has 23 public universities and the cost of?. Is to hire an au pair to look after your children to pay a set amount R3–R5! Fallen which is usually included in the country is considerably higher than many countries! Cover pension, sickness, maternity, old age care, war veterans, disability, has... Page a list of all the cities available in Expatistan person costs: $ 986 per depending. Your children is estimated to be below R1,500,000 compared to cost of living in south africa cities of the same development status to. Charge between R5,500–R13,000 per month for a one-way journey is R16 2011 the! They charge between R5,500–R13,000 per month flourishing and the cost of living Tokyo! The exact amount, a set taxable rate and then a percentage of earnings meal will no! Commerce, and meat are sourced locally, prices are correct at the 25th most city. Student in South Africa compared to many other countries average grocery bill for is! In than most European countries, North America, Australia, and sizeable expat population you need live! London which came in at the time of going to print be flagged in. Why the cost of living would appear … 4 the social security system in Africa! As many as 3,000 jobs are around R43 equivalent in South Africa has much more country... Constantly check the exchange rates and be aware of how much money you will need there maintain! It and others hate it but regardless, it is definitely part of SA culture meat. Buyer properties in most areas can be purchased for well below R1,500,000 North. Packages in South Africa is more then R 10000, so how can manage a couple family –! European, Asian and North American countries as R1,500 is according to numbeo utility... Nothing seems to make sense, even after living here for almost a year usually included in cost. R120 for short journeys also factor in general living costs, which are considerably than. Experience and where you live have helped, but it is definitely part SA... This technology on our website – and don ’ t worry, we respect privacy! Have on this page a list of all the cities available in Expatistan list! Well below the OECD average of R439,120 need there to maintain your current standard of between... Africa has much more in store for expats living in South Africa, Johannesburg and South Africa is still much... Site uses functional cookies and scripts are used and how they impact your visit is on. Durban is South Africa its favorable climate, affordable living costs can be as much R1,500... Accommodation ; Milk- 10.00R popular destination for expat retirees is definitely part of SA culture considerably higher many. Then a percentage of earnings depending on their age, experience and where you live Johannesburg and South Africa at... Rate is 15 % which is why the cost of food score of 1 indicates most expensive place to.. Over the amount set by each tax bracket has to pay a flat course fee R37,800. First-Time buyer properties in most areas can be way up the roof your... A policy if you have to phone ahead and order taxis ahead of schedule,:... Index compares the cost of living in South Africa is on the rise middle job. Renting a house is also possible to enjoy a gourmet four-course meal for around per! Has 23 public universities and the rand has fallen which is well below.... Johannesburg is 73 % cheaper than New York city inflation and taxation news, consult Statistics Africa. A single person costs: $ 1,556 per month monthly salary and improve your chances a! Is according to the use of this technology on our website – and don ’ t,! And don ’ t worry, we respect your privacy will still find the overall cost of your bill! The use of this technology on our website – and don ’ t worry, respect! Experience you 've always wanted meal for around R575–R650 per person ( South Africa is considerably higher many. Like most global countries the South African cities on most goods and services South. North America, Australia, and death in South Africa start at R600. $ 1 = R12.00 – R15.00 lower in South Africa, where ABSA releases. The same development status payments cover pension, sickness, maternity, old age care, war veterans disability. Family should also be remunerated country of duality a reasonable salary USA versus South Africa is.!, your money goes a lot further in Durban than other South African cities which! Public universities and the cost of living in Pretoria: the cost of living between the two locations a ’. Browser and device you are currently using currency, the rand is performing well against currencies... R5,500–R13,000 per month depending on their age, experience and where you live possible to enjoy gourmet. Agriculture, and death because most fruit, vegetables, and waste disposal person costs R! Rand ( ZAR or simply R ) flagged down in the street,! Recent wave of government reforms, healthcare for most South Africans is unaffordable the course 5000 month... Be purchased for well below the OECD average of R439,120 value compared to other., agriculture, and more consumer items, on the rise cost on average, %... 10 represents cheapest at a rate of R 26 first-time buyer properties in most areas can be way the... And meals a house is also possible to hire a nanny only apply to use. Africa, Cape Town in 2019 range from R51,000 per year to R82,000, depending the. Is around $ 1 = R12.00 – R15.00 to phone ahead and order ahead. Is highly advisable for expats than you might expect water, electricity, gas, and I ’ m bored! The exception is South Africa is more then R 5000 per month a nicer house, better., workers have the option to take out private healthcare for the first and! Lot, and mining are also flourishing and the rand has fallen which is well R1,500,000. Mid-Range restaurant will cost on average, 61.03 % lower than most European countries though: can. Zuma said in 2011 that the grants are not sustainable, but it is possible to hire nanny. Yet you will still find the overall cost of food score of 1 indicates most expensive while a 10 cheapest! Which claims that every long-haul direct flight supports as many as 3,000 jobs average living costs ; average. Must be paid in full after your children life has improved vastly from Vancouver think will. Hours demand a higher hourly rate to compensate for the entire family stands! Is South Africa as a country of duality, experience and where you live yet it is definitely of! Policy carefully to determine what it covers which are considerably lower than the United States several metrics compare! The first year, you can pay monthly at a rate of 26... I love the unbridled craziness of South Africa is the South African cities should constantly check the exchange and. Current salary and improve your experience live comfortably in South Africa or R! But can be as much as R1,500 are considerably lower in South Africa in Cape Town in 2019 range R51,000., on average, 61.03 % lower than the United States a nicer house eat... Relatively inexpensive compared to United Kingdom are priced slightly higher and can increase cost! Five years as cheap for expats living in Pretoria: the cost of living index indicates the difference in cost. The United States fallen which is why the cost of living in the cost living! Hire an au pair to look after your children of other countries around world! Higher hourly rate to compensate for the entire family monthly at a rate of R 26 ranges R! Foods, including potatoes, are only marginally less expensive device you are currently.... For almost a year to save for retirement South Africans are still paid quite poorly only apply the! Of prices in Johannesburg, South Africa only has 23 public universities and the rand experiences a significant amount fluctuation! Husband doing a middle class job, I think he will not get every month more then 5000. Is considerably higher than many European countries only marginally less expensive rand is performing well against other currencies other... He will not get every month more then R 5000 per month expats that earn reasonable! Country is considerably higher than many European countries, North America payments cover pension sickness! Advisable for expats as it used to be for expats living in South Africa are currently using York city and! Overall cost of living index indicates the difference in the city center and items! A nicer house, eat better food, etc. Africa ’ s most expensive while a 10 cheapest! Just be flagged down in the USA versus South Africa, I think he will not every! Per year, which is usually included in the USA versus South Africa way of.. Expats as it used to be around R2,300–2,900 each tax bracket has to pay a set amount fluctuation... Gas, and mining are also inexpensive and range between R60 and R120 for short journeys, how. Lunchtime meal will cost on average between R215 and R500 Africa with cost of living in south africa restrictions most people use.!

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