LimavsJohannesburg
Overall
š°+14.3%
Lima is 14.3%more expensive
Rent
š+14.3%
Housing is 14.3% higher
Dining
š½ļø+37.1%
Restaurants 37.1% pricier
Groceries
š-6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Lima, Peru and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lima is more expensive than Johannesburg by approximately 14.3%. 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 Lima are lower than in Johannesburg by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs around PENĀ 2,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZARĀ 10,000.
Dining out in Lima offers significant savings compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PENĀ 15 in Lima versus ZARĀ 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Lima is more affordable, with monthly passes at PENĀ 100 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 Lima.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lima can expect to spend approximately PENĀ 867 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 PENĀ 3,035 monthly in Lima 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 Lima 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 Lima 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
Lima
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lima more expensive than Johannesburg?
Yes, Lima is approximately 14.3% more expensive than Johannesburg overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lima compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Johannesburg salary when living in Lima. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $57,143 in Lima for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lima 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 Lima if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Johannesburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lima vs Johannesburg?
In Lima, a single person needs approximately PENĀ 2,067 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PENĀ 5,235. 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 Lima and Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Lima
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