Tenant

Costs To Consider When Planning To Move To JHB

Explore the financial aspects of moving to Johannesburg. From rent to transportation, discover the budget considerations for living in this vibrant city.

Since its founding in 1886, Johannesburg, also known as Jozi or Joburg, has developed into the economic and cultural centre of South Africa as we know it today. It is one of the world's youngest cities. The city of Johannesburg first attracted attention from the locals for its gold mining potential for many young miners and farmers. Since 1886, individuals from all over the world have flocked to "The City of Gold" to begin a new life. Johannesburg is situated in Gauteng, one of South Africa's most populous provinces, and it is easy to understand why. Both locals and visitors from abroad swarm to this distinctive and dynamic city, steeped in history and culture, to experience a metropolis like none other. Let’s look at costs to consider when you’re planning to come live in the city of gold, shall we?

Rent

The first thing you need to take note of is that you will most probably rent an apartment, especially if you want to live in the city centre. The houses in Johannesburg can be found on the outskirts of the CBD, with the north, east, west, and south of Jozi surrounded by different types of housing options. But in the city, we rent a lot. It may seem scary to consider renting in the city with questions like, ‘Is it safe?’ ‘Is it affordable?’ keeping you up at night. But fear not; at Johannesburg Housing Company, we provide affordable, comfortable, convenient, and safe buildings in the heart of the city for residents and visitors alike. One thing to note when creating your rental budget is that you will most probably be expected to make a deposit equivalent to your first month’s rent, as well as pay your first month’s rent. This means if your rent is R5000, you will pay R10 000 to move into your space.

Transportation and/or Fuel

Whether you are driving around or taking public transportation in Jozi, you need to factor in the costs because while we may make it affordable for you to live here, we can’t do much about your commuting in the city. So, we hope our tips help.

If you rely on public transportation, such as buses, you can purchase a ‘ticket’, which can be valid for a week or month, depending on your affordability and needs. This way, you can buy your ticket on payday and not have to worry about having cash for trips.

Taxis are still not advanced enough to offer ticket services, but you can choose to create a lift club with colleagues where you will all pay the same amount to get transported by a particular driver who does such services. The easiest way to find one is to visit one of our ranks, Bree Taxi Rank or Noord Taxi Rank.

Gautrain is also another cool way to save on transport, as you will be able to purchase a card, load some money onto it and use it as and when you need it. And when it comes to filling up your car, use your discretion and create your own lift club so that you can save on costs.

Food

Lucky you who gets to live in a city full of businesses and markets. In Johannesburg, there’s a vendor at almost every stop selling fruit, vegetable, spices, and much more. You may need to have actual cash as most of these vendors don’t offer digital payments, but if you live in Newtown or close by, there is a Food Lovers’ Market right at the heart of Bank City. You can score amazing deals and combos that won’t break your bank.

More Costs To Consider

Depending on where you are moving from, here are some of the things you need to add to your list of costs:

Boxes
Moving truck
Flight tickets (if you are coming from outside Jozi)
Uber when you arrive
Electricity
Cleaning services

Finding Your Home

With Johannesburg Housing Company, you can get the home you will love at affordable rates and conveniently placed to give you access to all things you will need. Simply check out our homes and choose your next apartment to rent, and come live where you’ll love. See you soon.