How much do you need to afford the cost of living in South Africa in ? Learn what to budget for food, housing, transportation, and more. South Africa is an exciting and culturally diverse place to live, from its three bustling capital cities to its beautiful natural parks. Inflation has hit South Africa hard in recent years, but finally shows signs of gradually slowing through Though expats from some countries may find the cost of living in South Africa comparatively affordable, income inequality is prevalent across many communities and parts of the country.
Remote workers, nomads, freelancers, and contractors need health insurance wherever life takes them. SafetyWing coverage includes hospitalization, cancer treatment, maternity, routine care, wellness therapies, and more. The country is rich in natural resources, particularly gold, platinum, and other minerals, which play a key role in its exports. Its financial sector is also well-developed, and serves as a gateway for businesses investing in Africa. However, South Africa faces major economic hurdles.
Political instability and corruption scandals have also eroded investor confidence in recent years. According to the World Bank, South Africa is the most unequal country in the world in terms of wealth. South Africa has large gaps in the poverty rate based on ethnicity, gender identity, and education level. The highest poverty rates are among black South Africans and people without formal education. Inflation rates were soaring between and , especially in groceries and transport, while wages lagged behind.
High-income earners, typically in executive or specialized roles, earn significantly more than the majority of the workforce. This is also apparent in the difference between public and private sector wages. For example, teachers and police officers make much less money than those in corporate jobs. The cost of living in South Africa is generally higher than in many of its neighboring countries, but it offers better infrastructure and services. Major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town are more expensive due to higher housing, transportation, and utility costs, whereas smaller towns and rural areas are more affordable.
However, wages in South Africa also tend to be higher, balancing the affordability for locals and expats. For , average consumer spending per person on food and non-alcoholic drinks in South Africa is estimated at about R The general cost of groceries in South Africa varies dramatically across different income groups.
