Is Johannesburg more expensive than Cape Town?

Johannesburg is 10.4% cheaper than Cape Town overall. Rent is 42.5% lower, groceries 2.1% cheaper, and restaurants 0.5% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Cape Town or Johannesburg?

Cape Town has a purchasing power index of 97.2 while Johannesburg has 114.0 (NYC = 100). Johannesburg offers better purchasing power.

Cape Town vs Johannesburg: Johannesburg is 10.4% cheaper, rent 43% lower (2026)

Category	🇿🇦 Cape Town	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	Difference
Cost of Living	33.7	30.2	-10.4%
Rent	22.6	13.0	-42.5%
Groceries	38.8	38.0	-2.1%
Restaurants	42.0	41.8	-0.5%
Purchasing Power	97.2	114.0	+17.3%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Cape Town

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🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Johannesburg

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Cape Town?

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Johannesburg?

🇿🇦 Cape Town vs 🇿🇦 Johannesburg

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