JakartavsJohannesburg
Overall
š°+6.7%
Jakarta is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
š+28.0%
Housing is 28.0% higher
Dining
š½ļø+37.1%
Restaurants 37.1% pricier
Groceries
š-16.0%
Food shopping 16.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Jakarta, Indonesia and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Jakarta is more expensive than Johannesburg by approximately 6.7%. 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 Jakarta are lower than in Johannesburg by 22%. A one-bedroom apartment in Jakarta's city center costs around IDRĀ 8,000,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZARĀ 10,000.
Dining out in Jakarta offers significant savings compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs IDRĀ 35,000 in Jakarta versus ZARĀ 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Jakarta is more expensive, with monthly passes at IDRĀ 150,000 compared to ZARĀ 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Johannesburg is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Jakarta.
Grocery shopping in Jakarta is more expensive by approximately 19%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Jakarta can expect to spend approximately IDRĀ 3,350,000 per month (excluding rent), while in Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZARĀ 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about IDRĀ 11,725,000 monthly in Jakarta versus ZARĀ 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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
š Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
š½ļø Food & Dining
š Groceries
š Transportation
š” Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Jakarta to Johannesburg, 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 Johannesburg to Jakarta 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
Jakarta
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jakarta more expensive than Johannesburg?
Yes, Jakarta is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Johannesburg overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Jakarta compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Johannesburg salary when living in Jakarta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $53,333 in Jakarta for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Jakarta and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 27%, 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?
Johannesburg offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Johannesburg provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Jakarta if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Johannesburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Jakarta vs Johannesburg?
In Jakarta, a single person needs approximately IDRĀ 7,850,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about IDRĀ 21,725,000. In Johannesburg, these figures are ZARĀ 12,314 for singles and ZARĀ 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Jakarta and Johannesburg in 2025 shows moderate 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.
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