China vs South Africa
China is about 17% pricier than South Africa overall, with a price level of 49.8 versus 41.2 (US = 100). The gap is widest in food and narrowest in housing & utilities. On quality of life, China scores higher (91 vs 53 of 100).
Metric China South Africa
Price level (US=100) 49.8 41.2
GDP / capita (PPP) $27,105 $15,456
GNI / capita (PPP) $26,920 $15,150
Inflation (YoY) 0.2% 4.4%
What's different, by category
Price levels by category (world average = 100). The cheaper of the two is highlighted.
Category China South Africa
Housing & utilities 69 76
Food 130 88
Transport 82 99
Restaurants & hotels 85 60
Health 64 76
Communication 86 76
Category price levels: World Bank ICP 2021 (world average = 100).
Quality of life
Metric China South Africa
Quality-of-life score 91/100 53/100
Life expectancy 78 yrs 66 yrs
Safety · homicide /100k 0.5 43.7
Internet users 92% 78%
Frequently asked
Is China more expensive than South Africa?
China is more expensive: about 17% pricier than South Africa overall.
What would a $100,000 lifestyle cost in South Africa?
Living the way $100,000 buys in China would cost roughly $82,500 in South Africa, based on overall price levels.
Which has the better quality of life, China or South Africa?
China scores higher, 91 vs 53 out of 100.
Salary check
A $100,000 lifestyle in China would cost about
$82,500
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