Cost of Living Calculator: Australia vs South Africa
Here’s a comprehensive table comparing the estimated cost of living in Australia vs. South Africa, covering key expenses in both countries. All costs are average estimates and can vary widely depending on the city, region, and personal lifestyle.
| Category | Australia (AUD) | South Africa (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per month) | |||
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | 1,800 – 2,500 | 8,000 – 12,000 | Higher in major cities like Sydney and Cape Town; varies widely based on city and neighborhood. |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | 1,300 – 1,800 | 5,500 – 8,000 | Generally lower in suburban areas. |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) | 3,500 – 5,500 | 16,000 – 25,000 | Rental prices fluctuate widely between urban and suburban settings. |
| Utilities (per month) | |||
| Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage (85m² apartment) | 150 – 250 | 1,500 – 2,500 | Utility prices fluctuate with seasonal needs and city size. |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more, Unlimited) | 70 – 90 | 500 – 1,000 | Internet tends to be more affordable in South Africa. |
| Groceries (monthly for 1 person) | |||
| Milk (1 liter) | 1.60 – 2.20 | 15 – 20 | Dairy products are often pricier in Australia. |
| Bread (500g loaf) | 2.50 – 3.50 | 15 – 25 | Generally comparable, though varies with region and brand. |
| Rice (1 kg) | 2.20 – 3.00 | 20 – 35 | Prices differ depending on the type of rice and quality. |
| Eggs (12-pack) | 4.00 – 6.00 | 35 – 50 | Eggs are generally pricier in Australia. |
| Chicken fillets (1 kg) | 10 – 15 | 80 – 100 | Meat prices can be high in both countries but are generally lower in South Africa. |
| Dining Out | |||
| Meal in inexpensive restaurant | 20 – 25 | 100 – 150 | Dining out is often cheaper in South Africa. |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | 80 – 120 | 500 – 800 | Fine dining in popular tourist areas can be expensive in both countries. |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | 12 – 15 | 60 – 90 | Fast food tends to be cheaper in South Africa. |
| Transportation | |||
| Monthly public transport pass | 100 – 160 | 400 – 700 | Public transport is more comprehensive in Australia’s major cities. |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | 1.80 – 2.20 | 20 – 24 | Gas prices fluctuate, with South Africa generally seeing lower prices due to local sources. |
| Healthcare | |||
| Doctor’s appointment | 60 – 100 | 400 – 600 | Private healthcare costs vary; public options help offset costs in both countries. |
| Health insurance (individual, monthly) | 100 – 300 | 500 – 1,000 | Insurance is generally more affordable in South Africa. |
| Education | |||
| International school (annual tuition) | 15,000 – 30,000 | 50,000 – 150,000 | International schools can be expensive in both countries, with local schools cheaper in SA. |
| University (domestic, annual tuition) | 6,000 – 15,000 | 30,000 – 80,000 | Public universities are typically more affordable in South Africa. |
| Miscellaneous | |||
| Gym membership (monthly) | 50 – 80 | 300 – 500 | Gyms are generally less expensive in South Africa. |
| Cinema ticket | 15 – 20 | 80 – 150 | Entertainment is typically cheaper in South Africa. |
| Overall Monthly Estimate for 1 Person | |||
| Basic living expenses (without rent) | 1,200 – 1,600 | 7,000 – 10,000 | Average costs without housing expenses, varying by lifestyle. |
| Average monthly total (with rent) | 2,800 – 4,100 | 13,000 – 22,000 | Costs vary widely based on city, lifestyle, and housing choice. |
Summary Insights
- Housing: Australia generally has higher housing costs, especially in city centers, while South Africa’s rental prices are lower overall.
- Utilities and Internet: Utilities are similarly priced, though internet services tend to be more affordable in South Africa.
- Groceries and Dining: Food and dining costs are lower in South Africa, though imported goods may be costly.
- Transportation: Gasoline is cheaper in South Africa, while public transportation options are more developed in Australian cities.
- Healthcare: Private healthcare costs are significant in both countries, with public healthcare available in South Africa for lower costs.
- Education: Local university and school tuition fees are lower in South Africa, while international schooling is similarly expensive in both.