Is Johannesburg more expensive than Durban?

Johannesburg is 26.9% more expensive than Durban overall. Rent is 13.0% higher, groceries 9.8% more expensive, and restaurants 19.8% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Durban or Johannesburg?

Durban has a purchasing power index of 98.3 while Johannesburg has 114.0 (NYC = 100). Johannesburg offers better purchasing power.

Durban vs Johannesburg: Johannesburg is 26.9% more expensive, rent 13% higher (2026)

Category	🇿🇦 Durban	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	Difference
Cost of Living	23.8	30.2	+26.9%
Rent	11.5	13.0	+13.0%
Groceries	34.6	38.0	+9.8%
Restaurants	34.9	41.8	+19.8%
Purchasing Power	98.3	114.0	+16.0%

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 Durban

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🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Johannesburg

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Durban?

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Johannesburg?

🇿🇦 Durban vs 🇿🇦 Johannesburg

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