South Africa
Big Five, Bigger Spirit
Overview
The "Rainbow Nation" at Africa's southern tip, combining world-class wine regions, safari experiences, lively cities, and a complex post-apartheid democracy.
Geographic Context
Region
Africa
Subregion
Southern Africa
Land Area
1,221,037 km²
Capital
Pretoria
Languages
Afrikaans, English, Southern Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swazi, Tswana, Tsonga, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu
Currencies
South African rand (R)
At a Glance
67
Oyster Score
Composite index
Health
49
Freedom
88
Security
63
Life Expectancy
61.5 yrs
Median Age
28.2 yrs
Urbanization
69%
Cost Index
40
Housing Index
26
Healthcare Access
58/100
Climate
Average Temperature
18.2°C
Average AQI
25
Most Temperate Cities
1 eSikhaleni 22.5°C
2 Berea 22.3°C
3 eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality 22.3°C
4 Nelspruit 21.1°C
5 Ehlanzeni District 21.1°C
Best Air Quality Cities
1 City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality 25 AQI
Cities
Economy & Finance
Finances
Economic Indicators
Cost Index 40
Cost of Living
Price Levels & Affordability
Housing Index 26
Investment
Credit Rating & Markets
Corp. Tax 27.00%
Taxation
Tax Rates & Compliance
Top Income Tax 45.00%
Employment
Labor & Social Protection
Startup Score 100/100
Business Environment
Trade & Commerce
FDI Openness 3/100
Society & Governance
International
Travel
Visas & Entry Requirements
Visa-Free 97 countries
Diplomatic Relations
Embassies & Alliances
Missions 97
Defence
Military & Security
Mil. Spending 0.73% GDP
Infrastructure
Energy & Transport
Internet Speed 62 Mbps
Environment
Emissions & Biodiversity
Disaster Risk 33/100
Alternatives
Similar Jurisdictions
Jurisdiction Guide
Tips & Cultural Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources: World Bank | WHO | Freedom House | OECD · Last updated: 2025