Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Johannesburg costs approximately $1,174 per month for one person including rent. That is 28% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $861, Johannesburg is on the more expensive side for Africa. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $489 per month, or $417 outside the centre. Housing therefore accounts for about 36% of a single person's total monthly cost here. A family of four should budget around $2,710 per month excluding rent. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $12.45 and a monthly transit pass $93. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 48 Mbps and Johannesburg scores 28/100 on safety (below average on safety). Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Johannesburg is a city in South Africa, where a single person can expect to spend about $1,174 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $489 per month, or $417 outside the centre. Internet is workable at around 48 Mbps median download speed. On safety, Johannesburg scores 28/100 — below average on safety for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 79°F and winter highs around 61°F, with roughly 351 sunny days a year.
A single person should budget around $1,174 per month in Johannesburg, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs. A family of four typically needs about $2,710 per month excluding rent.
How much is rent in Johannesburg?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Johannesburg averages $489 per month, dropping to about $417 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $1,202.
Is Johannesburg safe?
Johannesburg scores 28/100 on safety, which is below average on safety. Tourist safety is rated 28/100.
How fast is the internet in Johannesburg?
Median download speeds in Johannesburg are around 48 Mbps — workable for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 45 coworking spaces in the city.
Does South Africa offer a digital nomad visa?
South Africa does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. US passport holders can usually stay 90 days visa-free.
What is the weather like in Johannesburg?
Johannesburg sees summer highs around 79°F and winter highs near 61°F, with about 351 sunny days and 76 rainy days per year.
