CairovsCape Town
Overall
💰+42.9%
Cairo is 42.9%more expensive
Rent
🏠+133.3%
Housing is 133.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+66.7%
Restaurants 66.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+40.6%
Food shopping 40.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cairo, Egypt and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cairo is more expensive than Cape Town by approximately 42.9%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Cairo are lower than in Cape Town by 57%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cairo's city center costs around EGP 10,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZAR 12,000.
Dining out in Cairo offers significant savings compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs EGP 150 in Cairo versus ZAR 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Cairo is more affordable, with monthly passes at EGP 200 compared to ZAR 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cairo.
Grocery shopping in Cairo is more affordable by approximately 29%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Cairo can expect to spend approximately EGP 4,980 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about EGP 17,430 monthly in Cairo versus ZAR 20,615 in Cape Town. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Cairo to Cape Town, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Cape Town to Cairo requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Cairo
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cairo more expensive than Cape Town?
Yes, Cairo is approximately 42.9% more expensive than Cape Town overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Cairo compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Cape Town salary when living in Cairo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $71,429 in Cairo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cairo and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 57%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cairo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Cape Town for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cairo vs Cape Town?
In Cairo, a single person needs approximately EGP 10,980 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about EGP 29,430. In Cape Town, these figures are ZAR 13,890 for singles and ZAR 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Cairo and Cape Town in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Cairo
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