A growing number of South Africans who once saw emigration as a one-way decision are now rethinking that choice. And it’s not just sunny skies, braais or family ties that are bringing them home: It’s the compelling fact that SA has a significantly lower cost of living than most of the countries they chose to move to.
According to the just-released Numbeo Cost of Living Index 2026, which measures everyday expenses including rent relative to a New York City baseline of 100) SA has an index score of just 26,4 and is placed 97th out of 155 countries, making it one of the most affordable places to live in the world.
Read more: What’s behind wealth migration in Africa (and SA)
By contrast, Bermuda, which is the most expensive country to live in, has an index score of 123,5, followed by the Cayman Islands at 97,9 and Switzerland at 84,3. And this is how some of the most popular destinations for SA emigrants stack up:
Netherlands 57,9
United States: 56,3
United Kingdom: 51,9
Australia: 52,7
Germany: 49
Canada: 48,9
UAE: 48,2
New Zealand: 45
Portugal: 38,3
Thailand: 27,2
Namibia’s index score is the same as SA’s while Mauritius is only slightly less expensive with an index score of 26. Botswana has an index score of 21 and among the other members of BRICS, India is the most affordable (12,7) followed by Brazil (20,5) and China (21,5).
In practical terms, this means that everyday expenses, from housing and schooling to dining out, transport and utilities currently total much less in SA than in many other countries that have been favoured by SA emigrants. And for younger executives and professionals, especially, this gap has become impossible to ignore.
What is more, many returnees note that the lower cost of living in SA does not mean a lower quality of life. Indeed, they often cite improved work/ life balance, larger homes, access to outdoor living, private schooling and a social lifestyle that would be financially out of reach for them elsewhere.
Meanwhile, rising tourism numbers and increased international exposure are putting SA firmly on the radar of foreign families and lifestyle buyers as well. As visitors experience the country’s climate, natural beauty, food culture and hospitality – all at a fraction of the cost of comparable destinations – its value proposition as a long-term residential base becomes increasingly obvious.
For younger expats weighing up where in the world they can build wealth, raise families and enjoy a high quality of life, SA makes both financial and lifestyle sense.