Is Cape Town more expensive than Johannesburg?

Cape Town is 4.2% cheaper than Johannesburg overall. Rent is 71.7% higher, groceries 0.5% cheaper, and restaurants 1.0% more expensive.

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

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

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇿🇦 Johannesburg vs 🇿🇦 Cape Town

2026

Cape Town is 4.2% cheaper

Category	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	🇿🇦 Cape Town	Difference
Cost of Living	45.5	43.6	-4.2%
Rent	13.8	23.7	+71.7%
Groceries	41.3	41.1	-0.5%
Restaurants	40.9	41.3	+1.0%
Purchasing Power	112.3	96.2	-14.3%

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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