For thousands of people living across South Africa today, finding an affordable place to stay in 2025 has become one of the most important steps toward building a stable and stress-free life. With rising fuel prices, higher electricity costs, and increasing food expenses, many families, young workers, and even retirees are searching for towns and cities where they can reduce their monthly spending without lowering their quality of life. The truth is that the cost of living in major cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town continues to rise each year, making daily expenses harder to manage for many households.

Because of this, more South Africans are exploring alternative locations that offer cheaper rent, safer neighborhoods, better community life, and lower cost of basic services. Fortunately, South Africa is a diverse country with many towns that offer affordable living, good infrastructure, access to schools and hospitals, and plenty of job or business opportunities. Whether you are a student looking for cheap accommodation, a professional working remotely, a young family trying to save money, or a retiree wanting peaceful living, there are several places where your income can stretch much further.

This guide explores the Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Africa in 2025, based on affordability, rent prices, transport costs, access to healthcare, local economy, and lifestyle quality. Every section is detailed, simple, and practical so you can make the best decision for your future.

Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Africa in 2025

1. Bloemfontein – Affordable Urban Living With Low Rent and Strong Infrastructure

Bloemfontein is one of the most budget-friendly large cities in South Africa. It offers stable infrastructure, reliable public services, and a peaceful environment while still maintaining affordable rental costs.

Why Bloemfontein Is Affordable

• Rent prices are lower than other major cities.

• Transport costs are manageable due to shorter distances.

• Food and utilities are generally cheaper than Gauteng or Western Cape.

Lifestyle Benefits

Bloemfontein offers quality healthcare, reputable schools, and a steady job market in public services, education, health, and retail. The city is clean, organized, and quieter than Johannesburg or Durban, making it a great choice for families and retirees.

Typical Monthly Cost Estimate

• Bachelor flat: very affordable

• 2-bedroom apartment: lower than Gauteng

• Transport: moderate

• Food: medium-low

2. Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) – Coastal Living at a Low Cost

Gqeberha is one of the cheapest coastal cities in the country. Many people move here because they want access to the beach lifestyle without the high Cape Town living expenses.

Key Advantages

• Rent is significantly cheaper than Cape Town and Durban.

• Food prices are steady and affordable.

• Good public hospitals and clinics reduce healthcare costs.

Who Should Live Here

This city is perfect for students, remote workers, hospitality professionals, retirees, and anyone who loves the ocean.

Cost Highlights

• Affordable rent near the sea

• Slightly higher transport cost due to spread-out layout

• Reasonable utility and food prices

3. Polokwane – Low-Cost City With Big Growth Potential

Polokwane is one of the fastest-growing economic centers in its region and remains one of the cheapest places to live in 2025. Many young workers and families move here due to economic opportunities and affordable housing.

Why It’s a Budget-Friendly City

• Rent is cheaper than most cities of similar size.

• Everyday expenses like food, utilities, and transport are very low.

Lifestyle Features

Polokwane has shopping malls, universities, hospitals, and a lively business atmosphere. It is also known for friendly communities and strong entrepreneurial potential.

4. East London – Peaceful Coastal Living With Affordable Neighborhoods

East London remains a favorite for people looking for quiet living, ocean views, and low costs. It is perfect for families who want space, safety, and access to nature.

Advantages for Budget-Conscious Residents

• Rent is cheaper than Gqeberha and Cape Town.

• Food prices are low because many goods are locally sourced.

• Affordable public transport options.

Best For

Remote workers, retirees, families, and students.

5. Kimberley – Cheap Rent and Slower Pace of Life

Kimberley is one of the most affordable towns for people seeking quiet, low-pressure living. Its cost of living has remained stable for years.

Affordability Benefits

• Cheap rental properties.

• Low grocery costs.

• Short transport distances, saving fuel.

Living Experience

Kimberley offers good healthcare, reasonable schools, and a calm lifestyle. It’s ideal for retirees or families who want stability and low stress.

6. Pietermaritzburg – Affordable Living Close to Durban

Pietermaritzburg gives you access to a major metro region while keeping costs low. Many people choose PMB because it is far more affordable than Durban.

Why It’s Cheaper

• Significantly lower rent.

• Food and utilities cost less due to local suppliers.

Lifestyle Factors

The city provides quality education, a strong job market in government and manufacturing, and easy access to Durban when needed.

7. George – Safe, Clean, and Less Expensive Than Major Cities

George offers a balanced lifestyle: clean environment, low crime areas, and affordable living for people seeking comfort and safety.

Why Costs Are Lower

• Rent is cheaper than Cape Town and Stellenbosch.

• Transport is affordable due to short distances.

Best For

Retirees, remote workers, outdoor lovers, and families who want safe living.

8. Benoni – Affordable Living Inside Gauteng

Benoni is one of the cheapest towns within Gauteng. It gives residents easy access to Johannesburg and Pretoria without the high cost of big-city living.

Why Benoni Saves You Money

• Lower rent than most Gauteng suburbs.

• Plenty of affordable food markets.

• Public transport and taxis are easy to access.

Lifestyle Advantages

Benoni is quiet, organized, and offers good schools, clinics, and shopping centers.

9. Klerksdorp – Low-Cost Town With Strong Community Life

Klerksdorp is one of the most budget-friendly towns in South Africa, especially for families. It is known for low property prices and stable community life.

What Makes It Affordable

• Very low rent and property costs.

• Utilities are cheaper than big cities.

• Accessible healthcare and basic services.

Who Should Consider Klerksdorp

Families, retirees, small business owners, and anyone who values peaceful living.

10. Welkom – One of the Cheapest Places to Live in the Entire Country

Welkom consistently ranks among the most affordable towns in South Africa. Its housing costs are extremely low, and the town is well-planned with minimal traffic.

Why Welkom Leads in Affordability

• Some of the lowest rent and property prices in the country.

• Cheap food items due to local farming.

• Very low transport costs.

Lifestyle Quality

Welkom is clean, spacious, and ideal for people who want quiet living. It offers schools, hospitals, parks, and malls without the noise of larger cities.

Comparison Table: Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Africa in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cheapest city to live in South Africa in 2025?

Welkom and Klerksdorp are among the cheapest due to very low rent and daily expenses.

2. Which coastal city is the most affordable?

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) is the most budget-friendly coastal option.

3. What is the cheapest safe place to live?

George offers a good balance of affordability and safety.

4. Is Bloemfontein expensive?

No. It is one of the most affordable large cities in the country.

5. What is the cheapest place for families?

Polokwane, Klerksdorp, and Bloemfontein are top options for family budgets.

6. What city has the lowest rent?

Welkom often has the lowest rental costs.

7. What is the cheapest place for students?

Bloemfontein and Gqeberha offer low rent and many educational institutions.

8. Where can retirees live cheaply?

East London and George are excellent for affordable and peaceful retirement living.

9. Is Gauteng too expensive?

Most Gauteng cities are costly, but Benoni is an affordable exception.

10. Which city offers the best value overall?

Bloemfontein offers a strong mix of affordability, infrastructure, and job opportunities.

Conclusion

Choosing the right place to live can make a powerful difference in your financial stability and overall quality of life. In 2025, South Africa offers many affordable towns and cities where you can reduce your monthly expenses, enjoy safer neighborhoods, and access better lifestyle opportunities. Whether you want coastal living, peaceful town life, or access to major economic hubs, the locations in this guide give you affordable choices without sacrificing comfort.

If you are ready to save money, improve your daily life, and find a place where your income stretches further, the Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Africa in 2025 offer excellent options for your future.