So, you’re thinking about studying in Cape Town? Excellent choice. Mountains, beaches, vibey nightlife—what’s not to love? Oh yeah, the reality check: the cost of living. Before you go splurging your student loan on bottomless brunches and overpriced iced lattes, let’s break down what it actually costs to live in the Mother City as a student (and how to do it smartly).
The Cost of Living in Cape Town for Students
1. Rent – The Big One
Finding a place to live is priority number one, and in Cape Town, that can either mean scoring an affordable student digs or blowing your entire budget on a shoebox in the city centre. The average rent for a small apartment can range from R7,000 to R12,000 per month—and that’s without Wi-Fi, water, electricity, or any social perks.
Or you could skip the stress and stay at CampusKey. For one all-inclusive price, you get a fully furnished room, high-speed Wi-Fi, unlimited water and electricity, a gym, study areas, and a built-in student community. No surprise bills. No landlords ghosting your maintenance requests. Just premium student living. Check it out here.
2. Groceries – How Many Packets of 2-Minute Noodles?
Eating in Cape Town can be as cheap or as boujee as you make it. If you’re cooking at home, a reasonable grocery budget is around R2,000 – R3,500 per month. But let’s be real—when exams hit, Uber Eats takes over, and suddenly, your bank account looks like it needs CPR.
Pro tip: Hit up local markets like Oranjezicht Farmers Market for fresh (and cheaper) produce or stock up at Food Lover’s Market for bulk bargains. Also, CampusKey has fully equipped communal kitchens—so no excuses, get cooking!
3. Transport – Uber vs. MyCiti vs. Walking Everywhere
Unless you’ve got a car (and can afford the ridiculous petrol prices), you’ll need to rely on public transport. MyCiti buses are affordable and safe, with student passes costing around R600 per month. Ubers are convenient but can add up fast, and cycling is an option—if you don’t mind competing with Cape Town’s chaotic drivers.
Or, if you stay at CampusKey, you’re walking distance from UCT, Varsity College, and all the best coffee spots. No need for a car. No need for that overpriced Uber ride at 2 AM.
4. Coffee – Essential Student Fuel
Coffee is non-negotiable. At R30-R50 a cup, those daily cappuccinos add up quicker than your assignment deadlines. If you’re staying at CampusKey, you’ve got CK Mini Café right there, so at least you don’t have to trek across town to get your caffeine fix.
5. Entertainment & Going Out – Because Balance Is Key
Cape Town is packed with free and cheap things to do—from hiking Lion’s Head (free!) to beach days at Clifton (also free, unless you splurge on ice cream). But if you’re hitting the nightlife scene, drinks, club entry, and Ubers back home can easily cost R500+ per night.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for student nights, budget-friendly happy hours, and free events. Or, make friends at CampusKey and host legendary braais on the rooftop instead.
The Verdict: Can You Afford to Be a Student in Cape Town?
Yes—but only if you budget wisely. Cape Town’s living costs can be steep, but choosing the right accommodation (like CampusKey) can cut out a lot of extra expenses. When your rent already covers Wi-Fi, gym, electricity, water, and security, you have more cash to spend on experiences—not surprise bills.
Want to stress less about money and more about making memories? Check out CampusKey Cape Town and level up your student living game!
