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Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Capital City

Follows South Africa Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,220
Retiree Score
71.0
Safety Index
44.5
Healthcare
10 facilities

Port Elizabeth's population of 312,392 masks a gritty reality. Rampant water shortages, with the city losing a third of its supply to leaks, are a persistent headache for residents. Bureaucracy is another obstacle, with the long-delayed bus rapid transit system leaving parts of the city in permanent construction. However, the city's temperate oceanic climate and beachfront setting make it an appealing destination for tourists seeking year-round pleasant weather. Overall, Port Elizabeth offers a mixed bag - those drawn to its natural beauty may find the infrastructure challenges a deterrent.

Can I afford Port Elizabeth?

$

Port Elizabeth

You could save

1,780/mo

Savings Rate59%

Monthly Costs

Rent $520
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$700

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
59/100
Retiree Score
(i)
71/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
65/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets South Africa Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
45
Safety
10
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $19
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $46
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$180
Meal (Mid-range) $1,850
Cappuccino $35
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $2,036
Mobile Plan (mo) $574
Gym (mo) *$526
Cinema Ticket $175

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $416
1BR Outside (mo) *$312
3BR Center (mo) $880
3BR Outside (mo) *$606

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Humewood, Summerstrand
Best For
families, outdoor enthusiasts

Expat Life Notes

The friendly city is a hub for automotive manufacturing and coastal sports. It is safer than other major SA cities.

Pros

  • ✓ Great surfing and beaches
  • ✓ Lower cost of living
  • ✓ Native English primary

Cons

  • ✗ Persistent water issues
  • ✗ Economic stagnation
  • ✗ Security concerns

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
630 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Also Consider

Hartebeespoort, South AfricaNelspruit, South AfricaOuidah, BeninLiving in Ouidah, Benin offers ultra-low costs but requires tolerance for infrastructure gaps. Best for offline retirees willing to trade convenience for beachfRio Pequeno, BrazilLiving in Rio Pequeno, Brazil means affordable costs but long commutes. Ideal for budget-focused expats willing to trade convenience for lower rents.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Port Elizabeth

Click any question to expand the answer.

Port Elizabeth has a population of approximately 312,392 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,300 per month in Port Elizabeth, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $520/month.

The nearest airport to Port Elizabeth is PLZ, approximately 4km away.

Port Elizabeth is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 44.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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