Trying to live 'le good life' seems a bit harder for many 20-somethings especially during these tough economic times and especially so if you like to live it up in the city.

Although city dwellers are financially better off than their country counterparts it's also true that city life is by far more costly than the countryside. And according to www.propertygenie.co.za, it's even pricier if you are residing in a city such as Cape Town rather than Joburg. So how much do you need to survive city life? Let's work it out.

Basic survival needs:

Rent: R2500 (more if you are not willing to share)
Electricity: R350
Groceries: R700
Assuming you are in need of some standard furniture: for a bed, a fridge, a stove and a television your monthly instalment can vary between R1500 and R3000.
Furniture: R1500

So you like your pubs, pizzas and beers?

Entertainment costs can vary between R500 and R2000 depending on your social lifestyle but assuming you are an ordinary person with ordinary leisure needs you are expected to spend at least R500 on entertainment. However you can expect to pay more if you are smoker.
Entertainment R500

Arriving in style?

Purchasing your first vehicle is one of the biggest financial commitments you'll ever make not to mention the financial responsibility that comes with that decision. Buying a car is not a once off transaction leaving you with no further financial liabilities. The cost of the car accompanies costs of petrol/diesel plus maintenance fees should something go astray on your car.
Car: R2500 (A Corsa Lite with insurance)
Petrol: R700

Add some bling to it:

If you like to stick with the latest style trends and keep up to date with the latest fashion you are expected to fork out hundreds to stay en vogue.
Clothes: R600
Cell phone: R150

Living in the city can come with a heavy price tag considering that you need a minimum basic salary of at least R9500. So before you pack up and head for the bright lights, beware that those lights might fade sooner than you can say 'make ends meet'.

Estimates can vary from city to city and lifestyle to lifestyle.

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