Is Cape Town more expensive than Johannesburg?

Cape Town is 0.3% more expensive than Johannesburg overall. Rent is 57.3% higher, groceries 2.6% more expensive, and restaurants 5.7% more expensive.

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

Johannesburg has a purchasing power index of 112.4 while Cape Town has 102.8 (NYC = 100). Johannesburg offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇿🇦 Johannesburg vs 🇿🇦 Cape Town

2026

Cape Town is 0.3% more expensive

Category	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	🇿🇦 Cape Town	Difference
Cost of Living	39.9	40.0	+0.3%
Rent	13.1	20.6	+57.3%
Groceries	34.9	35.8	+2.6%
Restaurants	37.1	39.2	+5.7%
Purchasing Power	112.4	102.8	-8.5%

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 Johannesburg

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🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Cape Town

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Johannesburg?

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Cape Town?