Johannesburg vs Zanzibar: Cost of Living Compared

Zanzibar is roughly 24% cheaper overall — about $889 versus $1,174 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $151 in Zanzibar against $489 in Johannesburg. Zanzibar scores higher on safety (62 vs 28/100). Internet is faster in Johannesburg (48 vs 21 Mbps).

City Comparer

Johannesburg, South Africa
JohannesburgSouth Africa
Zanzibar, Tanzania
ZanzibarTanzania
81%overall match
Zanzibar leads in beachesZanzibar leads in divingJohannesburg leads in sports
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
JohannesburgZanzibar
Daily Cost$39/day
$30/day
Monthly Cost$1,174
$889
Rent$400
$151
Safety28
62
Healthcare61
45
Air Quality44
90
Tourist Safety28
55
Disaster Risk18
20
Winter High61°F
82°F
Summer High79°F
90°F
Sunny Days351
351
Rainy Days76
217
Nightlife50
25
Food70
55
Culture60
55
Coffee Culture42
30
Veg Friendly45
35
Late Night3/6
1/6
Cleanliness42
30
Green Spaces40
60
Hiking55
50
Beaches15
90
Surfing5
25
Skiing0
0
Diving10
75
Yoga30
45
Running35
25
Sports78
15
Bikeability10
10
Internet48 Mbps
21 Mbps
Transit30
15
Walkability22
35
Cowork Spaces45
5
Power Reliability75
48

Johannesburg vs Zanzibar FAQ

Is Johannesburg or Zanzibar cheaper to live in?

Zanzibar is cheaper — about $889 per month versus $1,174, roughly 24% less.

Is Johannesburg or Zanzibar safer?

Zanzibar scores higher: 62/100 versus 28/100.

Which has faster internet, Johannesburg or Zanzibar?

Johannesburg — median download speeds are 48 Mbps versus 21 Mbps.