Moving to South Africa

Expats moving to South Africa will find a world of wonders within the borders of a single country. From its incredibly diverse topography to its 11 official languages, there is much to be enjoyed in the range and rhythm of life in Africa’s southernmost country.

Living in South Africa as an expat

Retirees, ambitious young adults and established professionals are drawn by the wonderful climate, the relatively low living costs and the easy access to a luxurious lifestyle, all against an immensely scenic African backdrop. From bustling cities and quaint rural villages to sweeping game reserves with world-class lodges and pristine beaches all around its coast, South Africa offers expats an excellent quality of life and plenty to see and do. What's more, adapting to the culture is fairly easy and enjoying the South African lifestyle is effortless.

As a result of skill shortages in sectors such as engineering, education, executive management and information technology, expats with the right skills and experience shouldn’t struggle to find employment.

Cost of living in South Africa

The cost of living in South Africa is low compared to many destinations overseas, and roughly on par with the other more developed African countries. Expats with foreign-currency incomes will be in an excellent position, while those who earn South African rand may find local salaries not as competitive as they are used to.

The cost of accommodation in the population centres like Cape Town and Johannesburg can be high, but South Africa's property prices are mainly quite reasonable. Petrol is cheap relative to European prices; a blessing, because driving cars is the main form of transport. Local groceries are good quality and well-priced, but imported items (including electronics and cars) are costly. Most expat parents go for private education and healthcare, and these costs vary depending on quality. Expats typically opt for health insurance.

Expat families and children in South Africa

Despite issues in the respective public sectors, private healthcare in South Africa is world-class. Expat parents will also be glad to know that several of its universities are internationally ranked. The country's private schools offer a level of education comparable to the best schools around the world, and there are even some public schools that should meet the expectations of expats.

Unfortunately, there is still some way to go in addressing the disparities entrenched by the apartheid era, and crime in South Africa continues to be a problem that affects many citizens and businesses. Private security is a necessary precaution and, with a booming security industry, can easily be contracted for affordable rates.

Climate in South Africa

South Africa's sunny weather attracts expats and tourists from colder countries every year. It's a large country with coastal areas, plateaus, deserts and forests, and each area has its own climate.

The coastal regions are given to milder summers and winters. The west coast's Atlantic brings a Mediterranean feel to Cape Town, while the east coast's Indian Ocean makes Durban and Port Elizabeth more tropical. Winters are wet, and summers generally dry.

Inland, the inverse is true. Summers bring afternoon thunderstorms to Johannesburg, while winters are dry. Temperatures in the inland are also given to higher highs and lower lows – highs of up to or exceeding 104°F (40°C) are possible in the summer, and frost in the winter is not unheard of.

While life in the southernmost African country is far from perfect, South Africa's wonderful weather, reasonable cost of living, friendly population and high quality of life often lure many an expat to stay far longer than they intended. 

Fast facts