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Cost of Living in Port Elizabeth

Is it better to rent or buy in Port Elizabeth? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$76,964
$1,625/mo

Median in area: $1,625

$220,500

Median in area: $220,500

$44,100

If you Rent

$1,851 /mo
Base Rent$1,625
Est. Utilities$226
% of Income28.9%
Pre-tax Residual$4,563

If you Buy

$2,006 /mo
P&I (7.122%)$1,188
Taxes & Ins$592
Est. Utilities$226
% of Income31.3%
Pre-tax Residual$4,408

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Port Elizabeth?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Port Elizabeth. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,851, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,006 per month (a difference of $155).

How much do utilities cost in Port Elizabeth?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Port Elizabeth is approximately $226. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Port Elizabeth?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Port Elizabeth without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $74,040 per year.