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Cape Town

South Africa, Western Cape

Stunning natural setting and world-class food/wine. Load-shedding and safety are real factors; new Remote Work Visitor Visa eases entry.

MediterraneanZAREnglish4,600,000 people
The numbers

Cost, tax, and quality of life

Cost of living
Verified
50 idx
Numbeo Cost of Living Index · Jun 2026 ↗
Rent · 1BR center
Verified
$800 /mo
Numbeo Rent Prices · Jun 2026 ↗
Effective tax (remote)
Verified
30%
PwC Worldwide Tax Summaries · Jun 2026 ↗
Healthcare
Verified
60 idx
Numbeo Health Care Index · Jun 2026 ↗
Safety
Verified
35 idx
Numbeo Crime Index (inverted) · Jun 2026 ↗
Internet
Verified
50 Mbps
Ookla Speedtest Global Index · Jun 2026 ↗
Climate score
Verified
82 idx
Climate-Data.org · Jun 2026 ↗
Freedom
Verified
70 idx
Cato Human Freedom Index (2024) · Jun 2026 ↗
Visa pathways

How to legally live in South Africa

RWV · Remote Work Long-Stay
Remote Work Visitor Visa
Min income $53,978
Processing 30-60 days

South Africa's 2024 nomad visa. Up to 3 years, foreign income exempt from SA tax under the rules.

  • Remote work for non-SA company
  • Min R1M (~$54k)/yr
  • Health insurance
  • Clean record

Visa info is research, not legal advice. Always verify with a licensed immigration professional before applying.

If price is the problem

Cheaper cities with a similar vibe

See all alternatives →
AR
Buenos Aires
31% cheaper rent · 28% lower cost of living
Rent: $550/mo
Compare with Cape Town →
MX
Mexico City
16% lower cost of living
Rent: $950/mo
Compare with Cape Town →
CO
Medellín
25% cheaper rent · 36% lower cost of living
Rent: $600/mo
Compare with Cape Town →
What's next

Compare Cape Town against your situation

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