South Africa
Cost of Living in Durban
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 21.4Rent: 10.1Groceries: 28.7Restaurant: 30.3
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$580/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$901/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$1,182/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $441 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $304 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $172 |
| Restaurant Meal | $12 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $29 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $79 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Durban?
Compare Durban with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Durban?
A minimal monthly budget in Durban is approximately $580, a typical budget is $901, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $1,182 per month.
How much is rent in Durban?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Durban city center costs approximately $441/month. Outside the center, expect around $304/month.
Is Durban expensive compared to New York?
Durban's COL+Rent Index is 21.4 compared to New York's 100, meaning Durban is about 79% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Durban?
Monthly groceries in Durban cost approximately $172. The city's Groceries Index is 28.7 (NYC = 100).