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Pros and Cons of Living in South Africa

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 24, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in South Africa include its diverse culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities. South Africa is also home to some of the world's most renowned wildlife reserves, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Additionally, the country has a strong economy and a well-developed infrastructure. The cons of living in South Africa include its high crime rate, particularly in urban areas. The country also has a high rate of poverty and inequality, which can be difficult to navigate. Additionally, South Africa is prone to natural disasters such as droughts and floods, which can cause disruption to everyday life.

What are the pros and cons of living in South Africa?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in South Africa responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the diverse culture and stunning landscapes that South Africa has to offer. They also enjoy the relatively low cost of living and the fact that English is widely spoken. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the high crime rate and lack of infrastructure to be a deterrent. Additionally, the country's complex visa requirements can be a challenge for those who are not familiar with the process," explained one expat living in South Africa.

"I love the healthcare facilities, constant electricity, good transportation system and excellent housing properties. I dislike the violence, social unrest and lack of safety in South Africa especially if you're a Nigerian," said one in Cape Town.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do expats in South Africa appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in South Africa appreciate the country's vibrant culture, which is a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. They also enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, who are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and beaches. South Africa is also known for its excellent cuisine, which is a mix of traditional African dishes and international flavors. Finally, expats enjoy the country's rich history and cultural heritage, which is evident in its many museums, monuments, and cultural sites," explained one expat living in South Africa.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in South Africa often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. Many find the pace of life to be slower than what they are accustomed to, and the lack of punctuality can be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as English is not the primary language in South Africa. Expats may also find the local customs and etiquette to be unfamiliar, and the cost of living can be higher than expected," said one person in South Africa.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William Russell
William Russell

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