Is Johannesburg more expensive than Cape Town?

Johannesburg is 4.9% more expensive than Cape Town overall. Rent is 39.9% lower, groceries 1.0% cheaper, and restaurants 2.8% more expensive.

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

Cape Town has a purchasing power index of 89.9 while Johannesburg has 104.9 (NYC = 100). Johannesburg offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇿🇦 Cape Town vs 🇿🇦 Johannesburg

2026

Johannesburg is 4.9% more expensive

Category	🇿🇦 Cape Town	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	Difference
Cost of Living	43.0	45.1	+4.9%
Rent	23.3	14.0	-39.9%
Groceries	40.1	39.7	-1.0%
Restaurants	39.9	41.0	+2.8%
Purchasing Power	89.9	104.9	+16.7%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · 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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