Cape TownvsSeville
Overall
💰+16.0%
Cape Town is 16.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠-8.6%
Housing is 8.6% lower
Dining
🍽️+16.0%
Restaurants 16.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+15.6%
Food shopping 15.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Cape Town, South Africa and Seville, Spain reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cape Town is more expensive than Seville by approximately 16.0%. 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 higher than in Seville by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town's city center costs around ZAR 12,000, while the same in Seville is approximately €800.
Dining out in Cape Town offers significant savings compared to Seville. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZAR 150 in Cape Town versus €11 in Seville.
Public transportation in Cape Town is more expensive, with monthly passes at ZAR 800 compared to €40 in Seville.
Grocery shopping in Cape Town is more affordable by approximately 13%. 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 Seville, the same lifestyle would cost around €355. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ZAR 20,615 monthly in Cape Town versus €1,243 in Seville. 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 Seville, 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 Seville 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
Seville
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town more expensive than Seville?
Yes, Cape Town is approximately 16.0% more expensive than Seville overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Cape Town compared to Seville?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Seville salary when living in Cape Town. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Seville, you'd need about $58,000 in Cape Town for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cape Town and Seville?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 14%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seville offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seville provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cape Town if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Seville for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cape Town vs Seville?
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 Seville, these figures are €955 for singles and €2,243 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Cape Town and Seville in 2025 shows notable 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 Seville to maintain your lifestyle from Cape Town
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