🇿🇦 Cost of Living in Port Elizabeth - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$15,456 (2024)
Inflation Rate4.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$537 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend6.7% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)6.0% (2024)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Port Elizabeth is generally considered affordable, with a daily budget of $30-60 USD per person for backpackers, $60-120 USD for mid-range travelers, and $120-250 USD for those seeking comfort.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$30-60 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$60-120 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$120-250 USD
CurrencyZAR
Tipping Custom10-15% expected
How Expensive Is Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth is a coastal city in South Africa, and its cost of living is relatively lower compared to other major cities in the country, such as Cape Town or Johannesburg. The city offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. Compared to global averages, Port Elizabeth is considered an affordable city, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation being relatively low.
In terms of regional comparison, Port Elizabeth is more affordable than neighboring cities like East London, but slightly more expensive than smaller towns in the Eastern Cape province. The city's economy is driven by various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and tourism, which contributes to its relatively stable and affordable cost of living. Overall, Port Elizabeth offers a great value for money, making it an excellent choice for travelers and expats looking for an affordable and comfortable lifestyle.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$10-25
Basic dorms and shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$40-80
Comfortable rooms with private bathrooms
Luxury/Resort
$150-300
High-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$200-600
City center: $400-800, outside: $200-400
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$3-6
Casual Restaurant
$10-20
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$25-40
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$1-3
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$100-200
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80-1.20
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
200-400
400-600
800-1,200
Food
200-300
400-600
800-1,200
Transport
50-100
100-200
200-300
Utilities
50-100
100-150
200-250
Entertainment
100-200
200-300
400-500
Total
600-1,200
1,200-2,100
2,400-3,600
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse instead of a hotel to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls to enjoy affordable and delicious meals.
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to reduce transport costs.
Take advantage of free or low-cost activities, such as visiting the beach or exploring the city's parks and gardens.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets for groceries and other essentials to save on shopping costs.
Negotiate prices when shopping at markets or from street vendors to get the best deals.