Cost Of Living For a Family in Port Elizabeth 2025

Family cost of living chart - average monthly expenditure in Port Elizabeth

Average monthly spending for families in Port Elizabeth

We consider a family to be a member of four members, two adults and two children. This is the most common type of family. From the figures below, it should be fairly easy to calculate the average spending for families of different sizes.

Average Monthly Expenditure

Currency: ZAR
19,000 54,000 350,000
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1,000 $2,900 $19,000

How much money does a family need in a month to survive in Port Elizabeth?

Families in Port Elizabeth spend around 54,000 ZAR per month on average. Depending on the lifestyle, a family can survive with a monthly budget as low as 19,000 ZAR or as high as 350,000 ZAR. Location and income are very important factors and have a huge influence on expenditure and budget.


Prices and cost of goods and services in Port Elizabeth


Chart showing the prices and cost of grocery, food, restaurant meals, market, and beverages in Port Elizabeth

Dining, food, and beverages costs


Fast food combo meal

39 ZAR 78 ZAR 130 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2 $4.1 $6.8

Restaurant meal for one

130 ZAR 190 ZAR 380 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$6.7 $10 $20

Fine dining meal for one

250 ZAR 380 ZAR 1,500 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$13 $20 $80

Cappuccino or latte

32 ZAR 52 ZAR 78 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.7 $2.7 $4.1

Grocery and market costs


Milk large bottle

26 ZAR 31 ZAR 39 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.4 $1.6 $2

12 eggs

19 ZAR 26 ZAR 39 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1 $1.4 $2

Fresh whole chicken

44 ZAR 57 ZAR 81 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.3 $3 $4.3

Pack of beef

52 ZAR 78 ZAR 160 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.7 $4.1 $8.2

Medium bag of rice

21 ZAR 29 ZAR 40 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.5 $2.1

Bag of tomatos

7.8 ZAR 10 ZAR 19 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.41 $0.55 $1

Bag of apples

14 ZAR 18 ZAR 30 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.73 $0.96 $1.6
Chart showing the prices and cost of commute, travel, and transportation in Port Elizabeth


Commute, travel, and transportation costs


20 minutes taxi ride

32 ZAR 38 ZAR 76 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.7 $2 $4

Average car full tank

190 ZAR 260 ZAR 520 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$10 $14 $27

Average car 1-day rental

180 ZAR 250 ZAR 370 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$9.7 $13 $19

Average car price

97,000 ZAR 190,000 ZAR 260,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$5,100 $10,000 $14,000

Bus ticket one way

6.2 ZAR 9.2 ZAR 18 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.32 $0.49 $0.97

Car Service

250 ZAR 370 ZAR 740 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$13 $19 $39
Chart showing the prices and cost of utility, energy, water, and gas in Port Elizabeth


Utility cost (monthly)


Utility Bill - Family

950 ZAR 2,700 ZAR 18,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$50 $140 $930

Internet and cable

190 ZAR 390 ZAR 520 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$10 $20 $27

Mobile phone charges

160 ZAR 260 ZAR 780 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$8.2 $14 $41

Leisure and activities costs


Movie ticket

97 ZAR 130 ZAR 190 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$5.1 $6.8 $10

One month gym membership

300 ZAR 370 ZAR 740 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$16 $19 $39
Chart showing the prices and cost of clothing and accessories in Port Elizabeth


Cloths and accessories costs


Pair of jeans or pants

220 ZAR 310 ZAR 460 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $16 $24

Woman dress

210 ZAR 280 ZAR 920 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $15 $49

Woman shoes

190 ZAR 260 ZAR 620 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$10 $14 $32

Men's shoes

170 ZAR 210 ZAR 410 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$8.8 $11 $22

Men suit

180 ZAR 230 ZAR 1,200 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$9.7 $12 $65

Regular t-shirt

92 ZAR 120 ZAR 370 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$4.9 $6.5 $19
Chart showing the prices and cost of housing, accommodation, and rent in Port Elizabeth


Housing costs / monthly rent


Studio apartment

3,100 ZAR 4,600 ZAR 12,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$160 $240 $650

1-bedroom apartment

4,600 ZAR 7,400 ZAR 18,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$240 $390 $970

2-bedroom apartment

6,200 ZAR 9,200 ZAR 25,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$320 $490 $1,300

Housing costs / Buying


Studio apartment

620,000 ZAR 920,000 ZAR 1.8M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$32,000 $49,000 $97,000

1-bedroom apartment

740,000 ZAR 1.2M ZAR 4.6M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$39,000 $65,000 $240,000

2-bedroom apartment

1.2M ZAR 3.7M ZAR 7.4M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$65,000 $190,000 $390,000
Chart showing the prices and cost of furniture in Port Elizabeth


Furniture Costs


King Size Bed

3,900 ZAR 4,900 ZAR 6,500 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$200 $260 $340

Double Bed

2,600 ZAR 3,900 ZAR 4,900 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $200 $260

Single Bed

2,300 ZAR 3,000 ZAR 3,900 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$120 $160 $200

Living Room

4,300 ZAR 5,500 ZAR 19,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$230 $290 $1,000

Dining Table

1,900 ZAR 2,600 ZAR 4,900 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$100 $140 $260

Sofa or Couch

2,600 ZAR 3,500 ZAR 7,800 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $190 $410
Chart showing the prices and cost of electronic devices and appliances in Port Elizabeth


Electronics and House Appliance Costs


TV Set

2,600 ZAR 3,900 ZAR 7,800 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $200 $410

Fridge or Freezer

2,300 ZAR 3,500 ZAR 4,900 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$120 $190 $260

Washing Machine

3,000 ZAR 4,300 ZAR 7,800 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$160 $230 $410

Stove or Cooker

2,800 ZAR 3,500 ZAR 4,900 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$150 $190 $260

Mobile Phone

3,200 ZAR 3,900 ZAR 5,500 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$170 $200 $290

Laptop or Computer

3,500 ZAR 4,300 ZAR 7,800 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$190 $230 $410
Family cost of living and expenditure to income ratio in Port Elizabeth

Family expenditure to income ratio in Port Elizabeth

Analysing the how affordable it is for families to live in Port Elizabeth

One of the most definite ways to determine how affordable a place is measuring the ratio of expenses to salary. A high expense-to-income to ratio indicates a high cost-of-living index while a low expenditure-to-salary ratio means the place is affordable to live in. Families usually spend a larger chunk of their income than other population groups. A typical and healthy expenditure percentage for a family of four ranges between 70% to 80%.


Spending to Income Ratio

86%

78% to 95%

( expenditure / income ) x 100


Families in Port Elizabeth spend around 86% of their monthly income. Some families spend as low as 78% of their income while some as high as 95%.

Distribution of monthly cost of living expenses of a family in Port Elizabeth

How do families spend their money in Port Elizabeth?

We asked thousands of families about their spending habits and expenditure break down.


The percentage figures in this section are percentages of total spending not income. If you would like to see the percentage of expenses as related to income or salary, see other sections.

Housing and accomodation expenditure for families

Accomodation Cost28%

28% of total expenses on average (23% to 38%)

LOW$320   6,100 ZAR
AVERAGE$910   17,000 ZAR
HIGH$5,900   110,000 ZAR
Per Month

Families in Port Elizabeth typically spend from 23% to 38% of their total monthly expenditure on housing with 28% being the average. The average monthly spend on housing is 17,000 ZAR with expenditure ranging from 6,100 ZAR to 110,000 ZAR. This cost mainly goes for rent but it also includes other accommodation-related expenses.

Electricity, utilities, energy, water, internet, and mobile expenditure for families

Cost of utilities5%

5% of total expenses on average (3% to 8%)

LOW$50   950 ZAR
AVERAGE$140   2,700 ZAR
HIGH$930   18,000 ZAR
Per Month

Utility expenditure like electricity, water, and gas in Port Elizabeth ranges from 3% to 8% of total expenses with 5% being the average for most families. The average monthly cost of utilities is 2,700 ZAR with 950 ZAR and 18,000 ZAR being the upper and lower limits for a family of four.

Transport, fuel, and commute expenditure for families

Cost of transport and fuel6%

6% of total expenses on average (4% to 8%)

LOW$100   1,900 ZAR
AVERAGE$290   5,400 ZAR
HIGH$1,900   35,000 ZAR
Per Month

Fuel consumption and cost of transport depend heavily on whether a family resides near school and work, but roughly speaking a family would expect to spend from 1,900 ZAR to 35,000 ZAR in a month on commuting with 5,400 ZAR being the norm for most families. This means that money spent on transport constitutes about 6% of total spending on average but can go as low as 4% or as high as 8%.

Food, groceries, and basic shopping expenditure for families

Food and Groceries Cost20%

20% of total expenses on average (13% to 26%)

LOW$180   3,400 ZAR
AVERAGE$510   9,700 ZAR
HIGH$3,300   63,000 ZAR
Per Month

The average outlay on groceries and basic houshold items for a typical family in a month in Port Elizabeth is 9,700 ZAR. The cost of groceries can range between 3,400 ZAR to 63,000 ZAR. Families spend on average about 20% on food and groceries with upper and lower bounds of 13% and 26% respectively.

Healthcare and medical services expenditure for families

Cost of healthcare10%

10% of total expenses on average (6% to 15%)

LOW$90   1,700 ZAR
AVERAGE$290   5,400 ZAR
HIGH$1,500   28,000 ZAR
Per Month

Families in Port Elizabeth allocate 6% to 15% of their total monthly expenditure to healthcare including health insurance and out-of-pocket medical expenses. The average spending on medical services and clinic visits is around 10%. The range of medical expenses range from 1,700 ZAR to 28,000 ZAR with 5,400 ZAR being the norm for most families.

Leisure and shopping expenditure for families

Cost of leisure and shopping3%

3% of total expenses on average (2% to 7%)

LOW$50   950 ZAR
AVERAGE$140   2,700 ZAR
HIGH$930   18,000 ZAR
Per Month

This category mostly contains discretionary or non-essential expenses but also some non-discretionary spending like furniture for example. The monthly expenses range from 950 ZAR to 18,000 ZAR with 2,700 ZAR being the average. Speaking of percentages, that equates to 2% to 7% of total expenses with an average of 3% for most families.

Education and schooling expenditure for families

Cost of education and schooling14%

14% of total expenses on average (7% to 22%)

LOW$140   2,700 ZAR
AVERAGE$400   7,600 ZAR
HIGH$2,600   49,000 ZAR
Per Month

Spending on education can vary drastically between different families. On average, education constitutes 14% of the monthly expenditure of families with 7% and 22% being the lower and upper bounds respectively. The average reported education cost is 7,600 ZAR per month with 2,700 ZAR being the minimum spent amount and 49,000 ZAR being the maximum.

Other Expenses15%

15% of total expenses on average (8% to 20%)

LOW$80   1,500 ZAR
AVERAGE$230   4,300 ZAR
HIGH$1,500   28,000 ZAR
Per Month
Percentage of families who manage to save money from their income every month in Port Elizabeth

What percentage of families in Port Elizabeth are able to save money and how much can they save?


Percentage of families that reported their ability to save money


Saving Money
56%
Not Saving
44%

Almost 56% of surveyed families in Port Elizabeth said that they can save some money at the end of each month while 44% reported that they have to utilize their whole income to survive.


Family savings to income ratio in Port Elizabeth

Savings-to-Income Ratio

The savings-to-income ratio is measured as the percentage of income that people save over a specific period and it is simply calculated by dividing the saved money by total income and then multiplying the result by 100. (Savings / Income) x 100.


How much money do families manage to add to their savings?

The amount of money that people can afford to save depends hugely on their income. It is better to focus on the percentage when trying to understand saving patterns.

Saving to Income Ratio

12% 20% of income 30%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Average Monthly Saved Amount

6,900 ZAR
$360
20,000 ZAR
$1,000
130,000 ZAR
$6,800
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Savings to income distribution levels for families

Saving To Income Ratio% Families
0% - 10%37%
10% - 20%29%
20% - 30%20%
30% - 40%7%
40% - 50%5%
> 50%2%

Interpretation and Analysis

Families that are able to save money can put anywhere from 12% to 30% of their monthly income to their savings, with 20% being the average for most families. The average monthly amount of money that families can put aside is 20,000 ZAR with 6,900 ZAR and 130,000 ZAR being the minimum and maximum respectively.

Reasons that make it difficult for families to save money in Port Elizabeth

Saving Challenges in Port Elizabeth

Reasons that make it difficult for families to save money

We wanted to understand what is stopping families from maximizing their savings in Port Elizabeth. Listed below are the answers given by the survey participants.


Reason% People
Low Income6%
High Expenses9%
Debt and Loans16%
Lack of Budgeting Skills11%
Impulsive Spending10%
Financial Emergencies6%
Living the moment6%
Will do it later18%
Inflation12%
Social Pressure3%
Market Instability3%

Around 6% of the families said that their salary is too low to accommodate a portion for savings while 9% said that the high cost of living leaves little room for savings. 16% of the residents said that they are burdened with debt and find it challenging to save money. 11% reported that they just don't have the knowledge or discipline to create and stick to a budget, leading to overspending and an inability to save. 10% of families blamed impulsive spending as the reason for saving inability. Around 6% said that unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs are derailing their savings goals. 6% bluntly said that they don't see the purpose of it and prefer to live each day to the fullest. 18% reported that they understand the value of saving but are putting off saving for the future, thinking they have plenty of time to start later. 12% blamed inflation, saying that every time they save some money they end up using it immediately. A surprising 3% said that social pressure and keeping up with peers or social expectations makes them overspend. Lastly, 3% blamed market instability and price fluctuations.

Where do families choose to put their savings in Port Elizabeth

Typical saving choices for families in Port Elizabeth

Where do people choose to put their savings?


Saving Type% People
Emergency Funds11%
Gold11%
Savings Accounts17%
Retirement Accounts11%
Cash Savings18%
Real Estate10%
Investment6%
Stocks5%
Bonds6%
Mutual Funds3%
Certificates of Deposit3%
A typical and healthy budgeting structure. The 50-30-20 rule

A typical and healthy budgeting structure

The 50/30/20 rule

Spending among different people can vary significantly based on factors such as their income, lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. A commonly used guideline for budgeting is the 50/30/20 rule, which suggests allocating your income into three main categories in the following percentages.

  • 50% for needs and financial obligations

    This category includes essential expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare.

  • 30% for wants and discretionary spending

    This category covers discretionary spending on non-essential items, such as dining out, entertainment, travel, and other lifestyle choices.

  • 20% for savings and emergency fund

    This is the percentage that must be allocated to savings, emergency funds, and retirement accounts.

About financial planning, money management, and household budgeting

The 50/30/20 rule is used as a general guideline but may not be the best choice for all people. There are in fact many budgeting plans out there like the 70/20/10 and the 60/20/20 rules, all claiming to be the best. More important than all of this is to establish financial discipline by creating a budget tailored to your specific financial goals and situation. It is very important that your financial outflow be less than your income to maintain a healthy cash flow.

Income and cost of living compatibility. Is it affordable or economical for families to live in Port Elizabeth

Affordable living in Port Elizabeth

Income and cost of living compatibility

We asked families one simple question and recorded their answers.

Is it affordable or economical to live in Port Elizabeth?


Yes
67%
No
33%

Around 67% of surveyed families think that living in Port Elizabeth is affordable with proper budgeting while 33% reported that it is just too expensive and not affordable even with frugality and thriftness.

How easily is cost-cutting for families. Are there plenty of low-cost options in Port Elizabeth

Low-cost alternatives in Port Elizabeth

People are always looking for ways to cut down expenses and reduce expenditures. The hallmark of any affordable place is the availability of discount stores, bargain deals, smart or secondhand shopping, refurbished items, and couponing. We asked families how easily cost-cutting is and the answers were distributed as follows:

Plenty of low-cost options60%

Few low-cost options40%


Based on the survey, 60% of the families living in Port Elizabeth have no problem finding low-cost alternatives to support a frugal lifestyle while 40% think that thriftness is difficult due to scarcity in discount markets and secondhand outlets.

Emergency Funds For Families

An emergency fund is a financial safety net comprised of easily accessible savings set aside to cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies, typically amounting to three to six months' worth of living expenses. We asked families of Port Elizabeth whether they have an emergency fund and the answers were as follows.

Yes67%

No33%


Based on the survey, 33% of the families living in Port Elizabeth said that they don't have an emergency fund while 67% said that they do.

Financial literacy and difficulty in budgeting and financial planning for families in Port Elizabeth

Financial Literacy in South Africa

Financial literacy is the knowledge of concepts and principles related to personal finance that allow individuals to make informed decisions regarding their money such as budgeting, saving, investing, borrowing, managing debt, financial risk management, and planning.

Financial Leteracy63%


We asked family guardians and parents in Port Elizabeth whether they acquired any adequate personal financial training in their lives. Approximately 37% of the people who participated in the survey said that they are not well informed about the topics of budgeting, saving, etc., and just manage things based on their own experience, while 63% said that they know about the general principles of personal finance from sources other than their own experience.


Difficulty in Budgeting and Financial Planning

We wanted to understand whether families of South Africa have problems or difficulties in managing their expenditures and savings so we asked people one simple question: do you struggle with your personal finances? 27% of the participants reported that they indeed struggle in creating budgets and in organizing their finances while 73% said that they have everything under control.

Struggles with finance27%

Easily manages finances73%

Financial goals and targets of families living in Port Elizabeth

Financial goals of families in Port Elizabeth

In an attempt to understand the economic situation in Port Elizabeth, we asked participants about their financial targets. By knowing what the population in general is trying to achieve, we can shed light on the economic outlook, cost of living, and quality of life in general.


Financial Goal% People
Emergency Fund7%
Debt Reduction36%
Retirement Savings9%
Education Funding8%
Homeownership17%
Investing8%
Travel or Lifestyle9%
Healthcare Expenses11%
Financial Independence7%

Around 7% of families said that their main goal is to establish an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses while 36% said their number one priority is to pay off high-interest debt or loans and improve credit. 9% of surveyed people confirmed that saving for retirement to ensure a comfortable lifestyle in the final years is their main target. Around 8% reported that their priority is saving for the tuition fees and education costs of their children while 17% choose to buy a home or pay off existing mortgage before other things. 8% of the population would like to build wealth through investments such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or real estate. For 9% of people, saving for vacations or upgrading their lifestyle is the number one concern. Approximately 11% of the residents said that saving for healthcare expenses including insurance premiums is their main goal.

Chart showing the percentage of families who are in debt in Port Elizabeth

Debt, loans, and mortgages in Port Elizabeth


Percentage of families who are in debt


In Debt
23%
Debt Free
77%

According to the survey, 23% of the families in Port Elizabeth have some kind of debt, loan, mortgage, or credit card payments while 77% reported that they don't have financial obligations to banks.


Chart showing debt-to-income ratio in Port Elizabeth

Debt-to-income ratio in Port Elizabeth

Debt to income ratio

28%

19% to 36%

( monthly debt payment / monthly income ) x 100

Interpretation

The debt-to-income ratio measures the percentage of income being paid as debt settlement across the population. It is calculated by dividing the monthly debt settlement payment of an individual by their monthly income. Based on collected data, approximately 28% of a family's monthly income in Port Elizabeth goes to debt settlement.


Debt levels

Monthly debt settlement payment as percentage of monthly income

Debt-to-income ratio% People
> 60%3%
50% - 60%14%
40% - 50%12%
30% - 40%14%
20% - 30%13%
10% - 20%16%
0% - 10%27%

According to our data, 3% of the debtors in Port Elizabeth pay 60%+ of their income as debt settlement while 14% of the people pay 50% to 60% of their income for the same, which is quite an alarming financial situation for those individuals. 12% of people in debt dedicate 40% to 50% of their income to loan and mortgage payments while 14% dedicated 30% to 40% of income for same. Things are looking brighter for 13% of individuals as they only pay 20% to 30% of their income for loan and credit card repayment.


Distribution by type of debt in Port Elizabeth

Debt% People
Real Estate Mortgage11%
Auto Loan20%
Student Loan3%
Credit Card27%
Personal Loan39%

11% of debtors in Port Elizabeth confirm that real estate mortgages constitutes the main part of their outstanding debt while 27% say that credit card payments are the reason they are in debt. Auto loans were the main type of debt for 20% of people and personal loans rose at 39%. Lastly, student loans are the main source of debt for 3% of debtors in Port Elizabeth.


About credit score and debt management

Managing debt is a critical aspect of maintaining a favorable credit score. Debt reduction is the first thing you should do improve your financial situation. Getting rid of debt takes precedence over saving money because of interest rates.

Good debt vs. Bad debt

Not all debt is bad. Good debt typically refers to borrowing money for investments that can increase in value or generate income over time like purchasing a home or acquiring student loans. On the other hand, bad debt involves borrowing for things that fail to generate lasting value like high-interest credit card debt used for non-essential expenses like luxury items or vacations.


Loan Affordability Index in Port Elizabeth

Besides measuring the loan-to-income ratio, we asked families of Port Elizabeth how many times in a year they defaulted or were unable to pay their due credit card or loan payments on time. Understanding how often people default on their due payments is one of the indicators of the cost of living and economic situation.

Frequency and percentage of people who failed to pay their monthly credit card or loan payments on time last year.

Frequency% People
Never53%
Once a year23%
Twice a year12%
Three times a year8%
Four times a year4%
Housing and accommodation affordability, property price to income ratio, rent to income ratio, and housing affordability index chart in Port Elizabeth

Housing costs, accommodation, and housing affordability in Port Elizabeth

Rental costs and house/apartment prices can vary drastically between different areas and locations.


Rent Cost in Port Elizabeth

Monthly Rent Prices

Studio apartment monthly rent cost

3,100 ZAR 4,600 ZAR 12,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$160 $240 $650

1-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

4,600 ZAR 7,400 ZAR 18,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$240 $390 $970

2-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

6,200 ZAR 9,200 ZAR 25,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$320 $490 $1,300

3-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

7,400 ZAR 12,000 ZAR 34,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$390 $650 $1,800

Furnished apartment monthly rent cost

15,000 ZAR 37,000 ZAR 74,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$780 $1,900 $3,900

Townhouse monthly rent cost

12,000 ZAR 18,000 ZAR 53,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$650 $970 $2,800

House monthly rent cost

15,000 ZAR 37,000 ZAR 74,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$780 $1,900 $3,900

Villa monthly rent cost

18,000 ZAR 46,000 ZAR 74,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$970 $2,400 $3,900

The monthly rental cost of a studio apartment in Port Elizabeth ranges between 3,100 ZAR and 12,000 ZAR, meanwhile the cost of monthly rental of a one-bedroom apartment can be anywhere from 4,600 ZAR to 18,000 ZAR. Two-bedroom rentals rate ranges between 6,200 ZAR and 25,000 ZAR per month. The monthly rental for a three-bedroom apartment ranges from 7,400 ZAR to 34,000 ZAR. The average rent of a townhouse in Port Elizabeth is around 18,000 ZAR while house rental costs can be as high as 37,000 ZAR per month. Finally, if you want to rent a villa, expect to pay anywhere from 18,000 ZAR to 74,000 ZAR per month.



Apartment and house prices in Port Elizabeth

Cost of buying a property

Studio apartment price

620,000 ZAR 920,000 ZAR 1.8M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$32,000 $49,000 $97,000

1-bedroom apartment price

740,000 ZAR 1.2M ZAR 4.6M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$39,000 $65,000 $240,000

2-bedroom apartment price

1.2M ZAR 3.7M ZAR 7.4M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$65,000 $190,000 $390,000

3-bedroom apartment price

4.1M ZAR 6.2M ZAR 18M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$220,000 $320,000 $970,000

Townhouse price

5.3M ZAR 12M ZAR 46M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$280,000 $650,000 $2.4M

House price

6.2M ZAR 37M ZAR 53M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$320,000 $1.9M $2.8M

Villa price

7.4M ZAR 41M ZAR 62M ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$390,000 $2.2M $3.2M

The average price of a studio apartment in Port Elizabeth can range from 620,000 ZAR to 1.8M ZAR depending on location. One bedroom cost can be anywhere from 740,000 ZAR to 4.6M ZAR. A villa can cost you 41M ZAR on average with prices ranging from 7.4M ZAR to 62M ZAR.


If you're leasing or purchasing, housing costs in Port Elizabeth will probably constitute your biggest expenditure, yet it's an area where you wield considerable influence. This is due to the substantial variance in housing prices across communities. Keep in mind the location of your workplace and the accessibility of essential amenities to prevent negating the savings from lower rental rates with increased transportation expenses.

House / apartment prices to income ratio


Property price to income ratio

( average property price / average monthly income ) x 100


41 x120 monthly income 210
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Property prices in Port Elizabeth can be x120 to x210 multiples of the monthly income depending on the property and the income of the person. On average, property prices are approximately x120 multiples of the average monthly salary in Port Elizabeth.



Rent to income ratio


Rent to income ratio

( monthly rental / monthly income ) x 100


22% 32% of income 41%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average rent-to-income ratio in Port Elizabeth is around 32%. This means that people pay 32% of their income for rent. Those figures can range from 22% to 41% depending on the salary, location, and type of property.


The housing-to-income ratio is a very important metric to evaluate and measure how affordable living is in a particular area, city, or country since housing comprises the biggest chunk of expenditure. A higher housing to income ratio means that the place is relatively expensive. The figure by itself does tell much. It only starts to make sense when comparing the housing to income ratio across different locations.

Housing affordability index

The housing affordability index measures how affordable accommodation is in a particular place. This can measured in multiple ways, the most common being housing expenditure to total expenditure ratio and the rent to income ratio. The housing expenditure ratio is a figure reported by individuals on the percentage they allocate for housing. Rent to income ratio is calculated by dividing the average monthly rent by the average income. Because these values are both percentages, we can find their average and get the best of the two worlds.

Housing Affordability Index
29%

Property Taxes

Real estate owners pay property taxes to local tax authorities, which are determined by the assessed value of their property. Typically, these taxes are paid once a year. Property tax funds contribute to community development, financing infrastructure improvements, public services, and local education initiatives.


FROM
2.3%
AVERAGE
3.3%
TO
4.3%

Home Maintenance Costs

Home maintenance costs encompass various expenses associated with the upkeep and repair of a residence. These expenditures include regular tasks such as lawn care, pest control, and HVAC system servicing, as well as occasional repairs and renovations like fixing leaks, painting, or replacing appliances.


54 ZAR 700 ZAR 7,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Urban vs. rural living costs

Urban living typically entails higher housing and transportation costs due to demand and limited space, while rural areas generally offer lower housing expenses but may have higher prices for goods and services. The differnce in rental rates between urban areas and rural areas can be as high as 300% in some cases.

Monthly costs and expenses of energy and basic utilities in Port Elizabeth

Utilities expenditure can vary slightly between different areas and locations.


Energy, electricity, water, gas, internet, and mobile cost in Port Elizabeth

Utility Bill Cost / Electricity + Water + Gas / Family

950 ZAR 2,700 ZAR 18,000 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$50 $140 $930

Internet and cable cost

190 ZAR 390 ZAR 520 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$10 $20 $27

Mobile phone bill and charges

160 ZAR 260 ZAR 780 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$8.2 $14 $41

Because most utility bills club electricity, water, and gas costs in one bill, we can't provide a breakup for each type of utility and will display electricity, gas, and water as single cost.


The average monthly energy and water consumption of families is around 2,700 ZAR. The cost of internet and WiFi ranges from 190 ZAR to 520 ZAR with 390 ZAR being the average internet bill. Finally, the average monthly mobile charges is around 260 ZAR but can range between 160 ZAR and 780 ZAR depending on consumption. Mobile charges include both calling minutes as well as data packages.


Energy / Utility expense to income ratio


( monthly utility expenses / monthly income ) x 100


2% 4.9% of income 8.9%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average utility-to-income ratio in Port Elizabeth is around 4.9%. This means that people pay 4.9% of their income for energy, water, internet, and mobile charges. Those figures can range from 2% to 8.9% depending on salary and location.

Food Prices, Dining Expenses, and Grocery Costs in Port Elizabeth

Grocery / Food expenditure and prices can vary drastically between different areas and locations.


Prices and cost of goods and services in Port Elizabeth

Dining out, food, and beverages costs. Price variations for common food items.

Fast food combo meal price

39 ZAR 78 ZAR 130 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2 $4.1 $6.8

The average price of a regular combo meal at a fast food outlet or chain like McDonald's, Pizzahut, or KFC in Port Elizabeth is approximatly 78 ZAR with meal cost ranging from 39 ZAR to 130 ZAR. The typical combo meal consists of a burger, french fries, and a drink.

Restaurant meal for one price

130 ZAR 190 ZAR 380 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$6.7 $10 $20

If you are planning to have a nice meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay anywhere between 130 ZAR and 380 ZAR with 190 ZAR being the average price of a plate for one person at a regular restaurant in Port Elizabeth.

Fine dining meal for one price

250 ZAR 380 ZAR 1,500 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$13 $20 $80

The price range of a meal at fine-dining restaurant is 250 ZAR to 1,500 ZAR with the average cost being 380 ZAR for one person. This is what you would expect to pay a top-tier diner in Port Elizabeth.

Beverage prices, cappuccino, latte etc..

32 ZAR 52 ZAR 78 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.7 $2.7 $4.1

The average price of a regular beverage like cappuccino or latte at Starbucks, Costa, or similar coffee shops and cafes in Port Elizabeth is around 52 ZAR. Price ranges between 32 ZAR and 78 ZAR depending on the type of beverage, the size, and optional add-ons.



Grocery and market costs

Large bottle of milk price

26 ZAR 31 ZAR 39 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.4 $1.6 $2

The average price of a large bottle of milk in Port Elizabeth is 31 ZAR. The maximum what you would pay for milk is 39 ZAR and the minimum being 26 ZAR depending on the brand of milk and other properties.

12 eggs price

19 ZAR 26 ZAR 39 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1 $1.4 $2

A dozen eggs costs around 26 ZAR on average with 19 ZAR and 39 ZAR being the lower and upper limits respectively.

Fresh whole chicken price

44 ZAR 57 ZAR 81 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.3 $3 $4.3

The price range of a fresh whole chicken in Port Elizabeth is between 44 ZAR and 81 ZAR depending on the size of the chicken and whether it is oraganic or not. The average price is approximatly 57 ZAR.

Pack of beef price

52 ZAR 78 ZAR 160 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.7 $4.1 $8.2

The price of a regular pack of beef or meat is around 78 ZAR. A pack of beef contains around 1Kg or 1lb depending on packing.

Medium bag of rice price

21 ZAR 29 ZAR 40 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.5 $2.1

A bag of rice in Port Elizabeth costs around 29 ZAR on average with prices rangeing between 21 ZAR and 40 ZAR depending on the brand and quality.

Bag of tomatos price

7.8 ZAR 10 ZAR 19 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.41 $0.55 $1

A bag of tomatoes costs anywhere from 7.8 ZAR to 19 ZAR. A bag of tomatoes denotes 1Kg or 1lb depending on location.

Bag of apples price

14 ZAR 18 ZAR 30 ZAR
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.73 $0.96 $1.6

A bag of apples costs 18 ZAR on average. A bag of apples denotes 1Kg or 1lb depending on location.


Grocery and food expenditure to income ratio


( monthly grocery expenses / monthly income ) x 100


17% 25% of income 31%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average grocery-to-income ratio in Port Elizabeth is around 25%. This means that families spend 25% of their income on grocery and basic household items. The expenditure can range from 17% to 31% depending on salary and location.


Expenditure on food and grocery for families

Families' spending on grocery ranges from 3,400 ZAR to 63,000 ZAR with the location, income, and size of the family being the most determinite factors.

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