Cost of living in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein, known as the judicial capital of South Africa, offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Understanding the cost of living in this city is crucial for both potential residents and those planning to relocate.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, and more, to help you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $11.04 on average, with a range between $9.93 and $11.04.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $33.11, with prices ranging from $30.91 to $82.79.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $4.11, with a range between $3.31 and $4.91.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $0.94 to $2.48, imported beer $1.38 to $2.21, cappuccino $1.1 to $2.1, and Coke/Pepsi $0.66 to $0.77.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.83 and $1.1 per liter, averaging $0.97.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.62 and $1.1, with an average price of $0.95.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $0.99 to $2.32, averaging $1.94.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $0.99 to $1.93 per kg, while oranges range from $0.83 to $2.48 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.5 and $3.03 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.66 to $1.16 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0.77 and $0.83.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.1 and $1.38 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares are approximately $0.66 per km.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $275.95 to $303.55, averaging $289.75.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $248.36 to $331.15, averaging $289.75.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $441.53 to $496.72, averaging $469.12.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $469.12 to $518.8, averaging $494.88.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre is approximately $441.53.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $496.72 to $656.77, averaging $576.75.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $55.19 and $82.79, averaging $73.59.
- Internet - Internet services range from $27.6 to $44.15, with an average cost of $34.95.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for South Africa are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in South Africa, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
Markets
Markets
Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Buy Apartment Price
Buy Apartment Price
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Bloemfontein offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in South Africa. Dining out is reasonably priced, with inexpensive meals and fast food options being particularly affordable.
Housing costs are moderate, with rental prices for apartments both in and outside the city centre being quite similar. Utilities and internet services are also reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Bloemfontein.
Transportation costs are low, with affordable public transport and fuel prices. This makes commuting within the city budget-friendly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bloemfontein presents a cost-effective living environment, making it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a balance between urban amenities and affordability.
With reasonable housing, dining, and transportation costs, Bloemfontein is well-suited for those looking to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses associated with larger metropolitan areas.