Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Last updated on Mar 10, 2023
Summary: People often describe Cape Town, South Africa as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with stunning natural beauty. Expats love the city's laid-back atmosphere, its diverse culture, and its proximity to the beach. The weather in Cape Town is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $1,500 to $2,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Cape Town is typically around $800 to $1,200 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can range from $1,200 to $2,000 per month. The approximate population of Cape Town is 4.5 million people.
What do I need to know about living in Cape Town?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cape Town, they said:
"Before retiring in Cape Town, expats should research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Additionally, expats should consider the safety of the area and the availability of transportation. Finally, it is important to research the visa and residency requirements for living in South Africa," commented one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
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What do I need to know before moving to Cape Town?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cape Town, they said:
"Cape Town is a vibrant and diverse city with a lot to offer expats. It is important to research the cost of living in the city before moving, as it can be quite expensive. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs, as well as the language. It is also important to make sure you have the necessary visas and permits to live and work in the country. Additionally, it is important to make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, it is important to take the time to explore the city and its many attractions, as there is much to see and do in Cape Town," said one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
How do I find a place to live in Cape Town?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Cape Town is to use online resources such as property websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. Property websites such as Property24, Private Property, and Gumtree are great resources for finding rental properties in the area. Additionally, classifieds such as OLX and Junk Mail are also useful for finding rental properties. Lastly, real estate agents are a great resource for finding a place to live in Cape Town, as they have access to a wide range of properties and can help you find the perfect place for you," said one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cape Town?
"Expat homes and apartments in Cape Town tend to be modern and luxurious. Many of them feature large windows that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Expat homes and apartments often come with amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and private gardens. They are typically located in secure, gated communities with 24-hour security. Expat homes and apartments in Cape Town are also known for their spacious interiors, with plenty of room for entertaining guests," explained one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
What is the average cost of housing in Cape Town?
If you are thinking about moving to Cape Town, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Cape Town, is generally quite high. Prices vary depending on the area and type of property, but the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in the city centre is typically around R20,000 per month. Prices for larger homes in the suburbs can range from R15,000 to R30,000 per month," wrote a member in Cape Town.
How do I meet people in Cape Town?
When we asked people living in Cape Town about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Cape Town can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, book clubs, language classes, and more. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Cape Town. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and learn more about the city," remarked one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
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What should I bring when moving to Cape Town?
People living in Cape Town were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:
"When moving to Cape Town, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Bring clothing that is suitable for the warm, dry climate, such as light, breathable fabrics and hats to protect from the sun. It is also important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as books about the history and culture of South Africa. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other paperwork required for your move. Finally, don't forget to bring any items that will make your new home feel like home, such as photos, decorations, and other personal items," remarked one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
Where should I setup a bank account in Cape Town?
We asked expats in Cape Town what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:
"Before retiring in Cape Town, expats should research the cost of living and the availability of healthcare services. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Additionally, expats should consider the safety of the area and the availability of transportation. Finally, it is important to research the visa and residency requirements for living in South Africa," explained one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
Will I be able to find a job in Cape Town?
When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Cape Town, they reponded:
"Foreigners often find employment in Cape Town in a variety of industries, including hospitality, tourism, retail, and IT. Many foreigners also work in the service industry, such as restaurants, hotels, and bars. Additionally, there are opportunities for foreigners to work in the education sector, as well as in the medical and healthcare fields. Other popular job opportunities for foreigners in Cape Town include working in the finance and banking sector, as well as in the construction and engineering industries," wrote one member in Cape Town.
What is life like in Cape Town?
When we asked people living in Cape Town what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Cape Town is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and excellent quality of life. Expats and digital nomads in Cape Town can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many attractions to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and mountain biking. The city also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from visiting museums and galleries to attending festivals and events. The cost of living in Cape Town is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work in the city. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to find a community of like-minded people," remarked one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
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What do expats in Cape Town appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Cape Town appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. They also enjoy the city's stunning natural beauty, with its majestic Table Mountain, white sandy beaches, and lush vineyards. The city's diverse population and its welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live and work. Expats also appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Finally, they enjoy the city's rich history and its many cultural attractions, such as the District Six Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, and the Bo-Kaap Museum," commented one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Cape Town often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in many parts of the city. Additionally, the cost of living in Cape Town can be quite high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to navigate, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. Finally, the weather in Cape Town can be unpredictable, making it difficult to plan activities and outings," commented one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
Is there a lot of crime in Cape Town?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Cape Town has a high crime rate, with a range of criminal activities including robbery, burglary, and carjacking. Violent crime is also a problem, with incidents of assault, rape, and murder occurring in the city. Drug-related crime is also a major issue, with gangs and organized crime groups operating in the area. Despite the high crime rate, the South African government has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce crime in the city, including increased police presence and improved security measures," remarked one expat who made the move to Cape Town.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Cape Town accepting of differences?
"Cape Town is a diverse city with a population that is made up of people from many different backgrounds. The city is home to a variety of cultures, religions, and ethnicities, and is known for its acceptance of differences. People in Cape Town are generally welcoming and tolerant of different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles," explained one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
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What are the schools in Cape Town like?
"Cape Town is home to some of the best international and bilingual schools in South Africa. The American International School of Cape Town (AISCT) is an independent, co-educational day school offering an American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. AISCT is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and creativity. The International School of Cape Town (ISCT) is a private, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. ISCT is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing global citizenship, leadership, and communication skills. The French International School of Cape Town (FISCT) is a private, co-educational day school offering a French curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. FISCT is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and the Council of International Schools. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing language proficiency, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills. The German International School of Cape Town (GISCT) is a private, co-educational day school offering a German curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. GISCT is accredited by the German Ministry of Education and the Council of International Schools. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing language proficiency, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills," explained one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
What are the pros and cons of living in Cape Town?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Cape Town responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Cape Town often appreciate the city's stunning natural beauty, with its majestic Table Mountain, beautiful beaches, and lush vineyards. They also enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its diverse population, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Additionally, the city's relatively low cost of living and abundance of coworking spaces make it an attractive destination for digital nomads. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's high crime rate and lack of public transportation to be drawbacks," said one expat.
"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," commented one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Cape Town?
When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Cape Town, they replied:
"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Cape Town typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through various activities such as attending meetups, joining clubs and taking part in outdoor activities. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes to explore, as well as cultural events and festivals to attend. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly people, Cape Town is a great place to make new friends and build a social network," commented one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
"My social activities were limited because of the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians at the time," remarked one expat living in Cape Town.
"Cape Town is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to enjoy. The city is also home to a diverse range of people, making it a great place to meet new people and make friends. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a more relaxed evening, there's something for everyone in Cape Town," wrote one expat living in Cape Town.
What advice to expats in Cape Town have about housing?
"When looking for housing in Cape Town, it is important to research the area thoroughly and be aware of the crime rate. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of public transportation. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting and leasing. It is also recommended to speak to other expats in the area to get a better understanding of the local housing market. Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential for natural disasters in the area, such as floods and fires," wrote one expat living in Cape Town.
What are medical services in Cape Town like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cape Town, they replied:
"Cape Town offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is run by the government and provides free or low-cost medical care to citizens. Private healthcare is also available and is generally of a higher quality than public healthcare. There are a number of hospitals and clinics in the city, as well as specialist medical centers for specific conditions. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores. In addition, there are a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, who are available to provide medical services," said an expat in Cape Town.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cape Town?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Cape Town can be expensive. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can be high. However, there are some government-subsidized health insurance plans available that can help to reduce the cost of healthcare and health insurance. Additionally, there are a number of non-profit organizations that provide free or low-cost healthcare services to those in need," remarked one expat living in Cape Town.
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The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
Is the cost of living in Cape Town high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Cape Town, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Cape Town is generally considered to be quite reasonable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Cape Town can cost around $600 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Cape Town can cost around $15 USD per person," commented one expat living in Cape Town, South Africa.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Cape Town?
"In order to visit Cape Town, visitors must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Cape Town, South Africa, applicants must submit an application form, provide a valid passport, and pay the applicable fee. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Additionally, applicants may be required to provide proof of employment, proof of financial stability, and proof of health insurance. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," said an expat in Cape Town.
Why do people move to Cape Town?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Cape Town, they responded:
"Cape Town is a vibrant and diverse city that offers expats a unique and exciting lifestyle. With its stunning natural beauty, world-class infrastructure, and a wide range of cultural activities, Cape Town is an attractive destination for expats looking to experience a new culture and explore a new country. The city is also known for its excellent healthcare system, excellent educational opportunities, and a strong economy. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all walks of life. With its stunning beaches, mountains, and vineyards, Cape Town is a great place to live and work, and is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat living in Cape Town.
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Cape Town?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cape Town?
- What is the average cost of housing in Cape Town?
- How do I meet people in Cape Town?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Cape Town?
- What should I pack when moving to Cape Town?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Cape Town?
- Will I be able to find a job in Cape Town?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Cape Town?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Cape Town?
- What is the social scene like in Cape Town?
- What advice to expats in Cape Town have about housing?
- What are medical services in Cape Town like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cape Town?
- Is the cost of living in Cape Town high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Cape Town?
- Why do people move to Cape Town?
