Is Durban more expensive than Johannesburg?

Durban is 21.2% cheaper than Johannesburg overall. Rent is 11.5% lower, groceries 8.9% cheaper, and restaurants 16.5% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Johannesburg or Durban?

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

Johannesburg vs Durban: Durban is 21.2% cheaper, rent 12% lower (2026)

Category	🇿🇦 Johannesburg	🇿🇦 Durban	Difference
Cost of Living	30.2	23.8	-21.2%
Rent	13.0	11.5	-11.5%
Groceries	38.0	34.6	-8.9%
Restaurants	41.8	34.9	-16.5%
Purchasing Power	114.0	98.3	-13.8%

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 Johannesburg

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🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Durban

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Johannesburg?

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🇿🇦 Should I Move to Durban?

🇿🇦 Johannesburg vs 🇿🇦 Durban

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