Many South Africans believe that the cost of living across the border in Botswana is cheaper, lower rent, affordable groceries, and better value for money.
But is that still true in 2025, with fuel prices, exchange rates, and inflation constantly changing?
Is Botswana truly affordable today?
Botswana has long been known for its stable economy, low population, and relatively low cost of living.
Based on data from Numbeo, accommodation in Botswana is cheaper than in South Africa.
Major cities in both Botswana and South Africa usually have a higher cost of living than smaller cities.
According to Numbeo, in Gaborone, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around P3,500 per month (R4,200-R4,550), while a similar space in Johannesburg or Pretoria can cost R8,000 or more.
How groceries compare between the two countries
According to Exiap (2025), daily groceries are generally similar in cost between South Africa and Botswana, though some items are cheaper across the border.
For instance, a kilogram of beef costs around R114 in South Africa versus R93 in Botswana, and local cheese is slightly cheaper at R123 compared to R130.
Staple items such as milk, rice, eggs, and bananas are broadly comparable, while imported fruits like apples can be marginally cheaper in Botswana.
Botswana wins on utilities — but not on internet costs
When it comes to monthly utilities, Botswana generally offers better value than South Africa. According to Exiap’s 2025 cost-of-living data, bills for electricity, water, and gas average about P845 (roughly R1,050) in Botswana, almost half of South Africa’s R1,926 for a similar apartment.
Mobile phone plans are also cheaper across the border, costing around P372 (R460) compared to R541 in South Africa.
However, South Africa has a clear edge in internet pricing: a high-speed, unlimited 60 Mbps connection averages R700, while in Botswana the same service costs P1,072 (about R1,340).
Fuel prices: Botswana’s petrol and diesel remain cheaper than South Africa’s
Fuel is another big difference. As of November 2025, a litre of petrol in Botswana costs about P 14.75 (~R 17.70), while South Africans pay around R 21.12.
In Botswana, pump prices for diesel currently stand at about P 14.94 (~R 17.90) per litre, whereas in South Africa motorists pay around R 19.13.
That gap makes transport and goods distribution cheaper across the border.
Lower costs don’t always equal greater affordability
However, lower prices don’t always mean greater comfort.
According to GPA, average salaries in Botswana are generally lower than in South Africa, meaning locals often spend a bigger share of their income on essentials.
While Botswana offers a quieter, safer environment and less congestion, South Africa still provides more job opportunities and higher earning potential.
Overall, Botswana remains slightly cheaper than South Africa when it comes to rent, groceries, and fuel. Yet the true difference depends on how and where one earns their income. For many, the appeal of Botswana lies not just in prices but in its calmer pace of life and sense of stability.
