Can You Live in Eastern Cape For Less Than $1000?

Eastern Cape is one of the provinces of South Africa, situated in the southern part of the country. It is known for its beautiful coastline, wildlife, and the Addo Elephant National Park. Eastern Cape is also home to several universities, including the Nelson Mandela University and Rhodes University.

Many people dream of living in Eastern Cape, but they are unsure of the cost of living in the city. In this blog post, we will explore whether it is possible to live in Eastern Cape for less than $1000 per month, including the cost of accommodation, food, and other expenses.

Cost of Accommodation in Eastern Cape

The cost of accommodation in Eastern Cape varies depending on the location, the type of accommodation, and the facilities available. If you are on a tight budget, you can consider sharing a flat or a house with other people.

Average rent for a one-bedroom flat in the city center is around $220 per month, while a three-bedroom flat costs around $440 per month. If you are looking for cheaper options, you can find rooms available for rent in shared apartments for around $100 per month.

Food Costs in Eastern Cape

The cost of food in Eastern Cape is generally affordable, and you can easily manage to live within a budget of $200 per month. Eating out can be expensive, but if you choose to cook at home, you can save a lot of money.

You can find a good quality loaf of bread for around $0.50. A liter of milk costs around $1, while a dozen eggs cost around $2. Vegetables and fruits are also affordable, with a kilogram of tomatoes or potatoes costing around $0.50 each, and bananas around $0.20 per banana.

Transportation and Other Expenses

The cost of transportation in Eastern Cape is reasonable, with public transport being the most affordable option. A one-way ticket for local transport costs around $0.60, while a monthly pass costs around $35. If you choose to use taxis, the cost will be higher, but still affordable – a one-way trip costs around $4.

Other expenses that you should consider include utilities, such as water, electricity, and internet. These costs are generally low, and you can expect to pay around $50 per month for all utilities combined.

Conclusion

Overall, it is possible to live in Eastern Cape for less than $1000 per month, including the cost of accommodation, food, and other expenses. The key is to be mindful of your spending, and to look for affordable options when it comes to accommodation and food.

If you are studying or working in Eastern Cape, you can manage to live within a budget of $1000 per month, while still enjoying the beauty and culture of this wonderful city.

Eastern Cape is a place full of opportunities, and with careful budgeting, you can have a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.

An Insider’s Guide to Living in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape on a Budget of Less Than $1000

If you are planning a journey to South Africa and looking for an offbeat destination that offers remarkable landscapes, sun-kissed beaches, and a variety of adventure activities for tourists to experience, Port Elizabeth, also known as “The Friendly City,” should be on your list. Port Elizabeth is the coastal capital of the Eastern Cape Province, situated on the southern coast of South Africa. With a year-round favorable climate and a variety of thrilling activities, Port Elizabeth offers a budget-friendly trip that suits the tourists seeking an alternative to crowded resorts. Here’s an insider’s guide to living in Port Elizabeth for less than $1000.

Local Attractions

Port Elizabeth is widely known for its beaches, with a series of coastline from which you can pick. To start with, The Humewood Beach is a must-visit that offers a peaceful getaway with loads of space, lifeguard facilities, and dining spots. Next up, The Kings Beach is a family-friendly beach with ample facilities and a mini-Summerstrand spot; while the Hobie Beach, a popular destination for surfers, offers an overwhelming surfing experience with people of all ages.

If you’re looking for something beyond the beaches, visit the Red Location Museum, where you’ll explore the city’s history, struggles, and strong cultural heritage. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Kragga Kamma Game Park and Addo Elephant National Park offer an unforgettable experience that you can cherish for a lifetime.

Dining Spots

Port Elizabeth is a melting pot of South African culinary cultures, offering enticing flavors and a wide range of restaurants to choose from. One of the most popular dining spots in Port Elizabeth is The Black Forest Tavern, which serves traditional German and South African cuisines. For vegans, Rosa Mosa is an excellent spot. The menu is entirely vegan, and the atmosphere is cozy. Ginger is an organic café and restaurant where you can find a range of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Port Elizabeth enjoys the added benefit of being part of the Xhosa culture, one of Africa’s largest communities. Hence it goes without saying that the rich cultural heritage in the Eastern Cape is one of the city’s major attractions. You can enrich yourself with the Eastern Cape’s community by participating in the annual cultural celebrations such as Mpondo Pondo Dance Festival, The National Heritage Day, and Buyel’ekhaya Annual Music festival, where you can groove to the beats of African music.

Local History

Port Elizabeth has an enthralling historical background, and the city still has several historical buildings and monuments that serve as a testament to the city’s rich past. Among them, The Donkin Reserve is a significant marker for the history of the city, serving as a lighthouse. The Port Elizabeth Railway Station served as the headquarters to the British forces during the Anglo-Boer War and is now a museum where you can enlighten yourself about the city’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore beyond the city’s regular itinerary, here are some off-beat destinations to visit.

– One of the gems of the city lies at the end of Victoria Drive. There, The Island Nature Reserve is perfectly hidden and offers excellent hikes along the coastline, along with mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean.

– If you want to try out adventure activities, visit the Sunday’s River, which offers excellent kayaking, river cruises, and sandboarding experiences.

– If you are a fan of motorsports, make sure to visit the Aldo Scribante Racetrack, which hosts adrenaline-pumping race events.

In conclusion, Port Elizabeth offers captivating landscapes, an array of adventure activities, bustling markets, historical monuments, and budget-friendly dining spots, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers to visit. By following this insider’s guide to Port Elizabeth, you can enjoy a memorable journey without breaking the bank.