Cape TownvsSan Diego
Overall
💰+70.0%
Cape Town is 70.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+114.3%
Housing is 114.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+60.0%
Restaurants 60.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+88.9%
Food shopping 88.9% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cape Town, South Africa and San Diego, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cape Town is more expensive than San Diego by approximately 70.0%. 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 Cape Town are lower than in San Diego by 53%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town's city center costs around ZAR 12,000, while the same in San Diego is approximately $2,500.
Dining out in Cape Town offers significant savings compared to San Diego. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZAR 150 in Cape Town versus $18 in San Diego.
Public transportation in Cape Town is more expensive, with monthly passes at ZAR 800 compared to $72 in San Diego.
Purchasing power in San Diego is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Cape Town.
Grocery shopping in Cape Town is more affordable by approximately 47%. 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 Cape Town can expect to spend approximately ZAR 5,890 per month (excluding rent), while in San Diego, the same lifestyle would cost around $581. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ZAR 20,615 monthly in Cape Town versus $2,034 in San Diego. 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 Cape Town to San Diego, 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 San Diego to Cape Town 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
Cape Town
San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town more expensive than San Diego?
Yes, Cape Town is approximately 70.0% more expensive than San Diego overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Cape Town compared to San Diego?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.7x of your San Diego salary when living in Cape Town. For example, if you earn $50,000 in San Diego, you'd need about $85,000 in Cape Town for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cape Town and San Diego?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 53%, 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?
San Diego offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, San Diego provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cape Town if you prioritize cultural experiences, or San Diego for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cape Town vs San Diego?
In Cape Town, a single person needs approximately ZAR 13,890 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ZAR 38,615. In San Diego, these figures are $2,581 for singles and $5,534 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Cape Town and San Diego 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 San Diego to maintain your lifestyle from Cape Town
Calculate Salary Equivalence