On the whole, living in South Africa is not all that different from living in Europe or North America from a financial standpoint. But there are fairly stark differences within specific spending categories, and it helps to be aware of those prior to your move so that you can be mentally prepared, adapt your lifestyle if necessary, and, if that is an option, negotiate certain cost of living adjustments with your employer.

It is a question many an expat has asked when moving to a new country. Do I have to open a new bank account or can I somehow manage with the one I have in my home country? To some extent, the answer will depend on how you receive your income.