South Africa
Cost of Living in Cape Town
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 28.5Rent: 15.3Groceries: 36.5Restaurant: 40.5
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$813/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$1,261/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$1,645/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $667 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $460 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $218 |
| Restaurant Meal | $16 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $36 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $100 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Cape Town?
Compare Cape Town with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Cape Town?
A minimal monthly budget in Cape Town is approximately $813, a typical budget is $1,261, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $1,645 per month.
How much is rent in Cape Town?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Cape Town city center costs approximately $667/month. Outside the center, expect around $460/month.
Is Cape Town expensive compared to New York?
Cape Town's COL+Rent Index is 28.5 compared to New York's 100, meaning Cape Town is about 72% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Cape Town?
Monthly groceries in Cape Town cost approximately $218. The city's Groceries Index is 36.5 (NYC = 100).