Pros and Cons of Living in South Africa

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," remarked one expat 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," explained one expat in Cape Town.

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About the Author

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.