South Africa vs Thailand
South Africa is about 27% pricier than Thailand overall, with a price level of 41.2 versus 30.2 (US = 100). The gap is widest in housing & utilities and narrowest in food. On quality of life, Thailand scores higher (86 vs 53 of 100).
Metric South Africa Thailand
Price level (US=100) 41.2 30.2
GDP / capita (PPP) $15,456 $24,712
GNI / capita (PPP) $15,150 $23,960
Inflation (YoY) 4.4% 1.4%
What's different, by category
Price levels by category (world average = 100). The cheaper of the two is highlighted.
Category South Africa Thailand
Housing & utilities 76 26
Food 88 85
Transport 99 68
Restaurants & hotels 60 42
Health 76 40
Communication 76 107
Category price levels: World Bank ICP 2021 (world average = 100).
Quality of life
Metric South Africa Thailand
Quality-of-life score 53/100 86/100
Life expectancy 66 yrs 77 yrs
Safety · homicide /100k 43.7 4.8
Internet users 78% 91%
Frequently asked
Is South Africa more expensive than Thailand?
South Africa is more expensive: about 27% pricier than Thailand overall.
What would a $100,000 lifestyle cost in Thailand?
Living the way $100,000 buys in South Africa would cost roughly $73,500 in Thailand, based on overall price levels.
Which has the better quality of life, South Africa or Thailand?
Thailand scores higher, 86 vs 53 out of 100.
Salary check
A $100,000 lifestyle in South Africa would cost about
$73,500
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