Planning to move to Cape Town? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Cape Town, South Africa as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Cape Town | South Africa Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €429 | €357 | +20% above avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €786 | €655 | +20% above avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €1,607 | €1,345 | +19% above avg |
| Groceries | €196 | €163 | +20% above avg |
| Transport | €47 | €39 | +19% above avg |
Get Your South Africa Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for South Africa.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Cape Town in 2026?
A single expat living in central Cape Town should budget approximately €786 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €1,607/month.
How much is rent in Cape Town for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Cape Town city centre costs around €429/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €300/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €944/month.
Is Cape Town expensive compared to other cities in South Africa?
Cape Town has a cost index of 100% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in South Africa for comparison.
Related: South Africa Guide · South Africa Salaries · South Africa Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare South Africa · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.