South Africa vs United States
United States is about 59% pricier than South Africa overall, with a price level of 100.0 versus 41.2 (US = 100). The gap is widest in communication and narrowest in transport. On quality of life, United States scores higher (91 vs 53 of 100).
Metric South Africa United States
Price level (US=100) 41.2 100.0
GDP / capita (PPP) $15,456 $85,810
GNI / capita (PPP) $15,150 $85,980
Inflation (YoY) 4.4% 2.9%
What's different, by category
Price levels by category (world average = 100). The cheaper of the two is highlighted.
Category South Africa United States
Housing & utilities 76 215
Food 88 117
Transport 99 116
Restaurants & hotels 60 142
Health 76 208
Communication 76 224
Category price levels: World Bank ICP 2021 (world average = 100).
Quality of life
Metric South Africa United States
Quality-of-life score 53/100 91/100
Life expectancy 66 yrs 79 yrs
Safety · homicide /100k 43.7 5.8
Internet users 78% 95%
Frequently asked
Is South Africa more expensive than United States?
United States is more expensive: about 59% pricier than South Africa overall.
What would a $100,000 lifestyle cost in United States?
Living the way $100,000 buys in South Africa would cost roughly $242,500 in United States, based on overall price levels.
Which has the better quality of life, South Africa or United States?
United States scores higher, 91 vs 53 out of 100.
Salary check
A $100,000 lifestyle in South Africa would cost about
$242,500
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