Is Johannesburg more expensive than Cape Town?

Johannesburg is 4.4% more expensive than Cape Town overall. Rent is 41.8% lower, groceries 0.5% more expensive, and restaurants 1.0% cheaper.

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

Cape Town has a purchasing power index of 96.2 while Johannesburg has 112.3 (NYC = 100). Johannesburg offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇿🇦 Cape Town vs 🇿🇦 Johannesburg

2026

Johannesburg is 4.4% more expensive

Category	🇿🇦 Cape Town	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	Difference
Cost of Living	43.6	45.5	+4.4%
Rent	23.7	13.8	-41.8%
Groceries	41.1	41.3	+0.5%
Restaurants	41.3	40.9	-1.0%
Purchasing Power	96.2	112.3	+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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