Durban, South Africa
Cost of living · 2023 · Africa · Rent +6.8% vs 2022
Rent trend in Durban (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Durban (2023)
Estimated monthly budget in Durban
Based on 2023 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in South Africa (2023)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Durban |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durban | ZAR 9,400 | ZAR 4,230 | ZAR 799 | ZAR 1,880 | — |
| Cape Town | ZAR 15,980 | ZAR 5,170 | ZAR 1,034 | ZAR 2,444 | +70% |
| Johannesburg | ZAR 12,690 | ZAR 4,700 | ZAR 893 | ZAR 2,162 | +35% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Durban in 2023?
In 2023, a single person living in Durban needs approximately ZAR 17,211/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around ZAR 33,831/month. Durban is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Durban in 2023?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Durban costs approximately ZAR 9,400/month in 2023. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around ZAR 17,860/month. Rent has changed +6.8% vs 2022.
How much do groceries cost in Durban?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Durban are approximately ZAR 4,230 in 2023. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Durban?
A monthly public transport pass in Durban costs ZAR 799 in 2023, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Durban?
Monthly utility costs in Durban average ZAR 1,880 in 2023, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Durban expensive to live in?
Durban is located in South Africa (Africa). With a 1-bed rent of ZAR 9,400/month and total single-person expenses around ZAR 17,211/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Durban?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Durban costs approximately ZAR 113 in 2023. Budget around ZAR 902/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Durban changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Durban from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 24.7% over this period (from ZAR 8,800 in 2022 to ZAR 10,972 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Durban?
To live comfortably in Durban in 2023, a single person needs approximately ZAR 17,211/month. This covers rent (ZAR 9,400), groceries (ZAR 4,230), transport (ZAR 799), utilities (ZAR 1,880) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around ZAR 33,831/month.