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Upington, South Africa
Capital City

Follows South Africa Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,330
Retiree Score
60.0
Safety Index
74.2
Healthcare
—

With a population of just 121,189, Upington is a small and remote town in South Africa's Northern Cape. The landscape is very arid, but the soil is fertile enough to grow export-quality grapes, raisins, and wines along the Orange River. However, the relentless heat - with temperatures reaching over 97°F in the summer - is a persistent headache.

The town also has a troubled history. In 1985, 26 black residents were charged with the murder of a police officer, leading to a notorious trial that highlighted the injustices of apartheid. While the death sentences were later overturned, the legacy of this case still looms over Upington.

For those seeking an authentic South African experience away from the crowds, Upington could be an intriguing option. But the intense climate, remote location, and lingering social tensions mean this town is not for the faint of heart.

Can I afford Upington?

$

Upington

You could save

1,670/mo

Savings Rate56%

Monthly Costs

Rent $580
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$750

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
56/100
Retiree Score
(i)
60/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
29/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets South Africa Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
74
Safety
0
Healthcare
30
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$12
Meal (Mid-range) $4
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $117
Mobile Plan (mo) *$17
Gym (mo) *$28
Cinema Ticket *$8

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $348
1BR Outside (mo) *$234
3BR Center (mo) $648
3BR Outside (mo) *$454

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Upington Town Centre, Louisvale Road area
Best For
agricultural workers, conservation professionals, retirees

Expat Life Notes

Upington is a gateway city to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Northern Cape. Tourism and agriculture (particularly grapes and dates) drive the economy. A small expat community of agricultural and tourism workers exists.

Pros

  • ✓ English-friendly as South Africa
  • ✓ Gateway to desert parks
  • ✓ Affordable

Cons

  • ✗ Extreme heat in summer
  • ✗ Remote location
  • ✗ Limited urban amenities

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
100 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Heidelberg, GP, South AfricaNelspruit, South AfricaCuiabá, BrazilLiving in Cuiabá offers dirt-cheap rents in Brazil’s agricultural heartland, but be ready for relentless heat and growing pains in this fast-expanding city.Bragança Paulista, BrazilLiving in Bragança Paulista offers affordable housing and suburban calm near São Paulo. Ideal for retirees and families seeking Brazil’s lower cost of living.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Upington

Click any question to expand the answer.

Upington has a population of approximately 121,189 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,450 per month in Upington, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $580/month.

The nearest airport to Upington is KIM, approximately 345km away.

Upington is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 74.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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