Living in East London as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Foreign nationals planning to stay in South Africa for more than 90 days must obtain a temporary residency visa. This process involves several steps, including applying for a barcoded application form at a South African mission, submitting supporting documents, and attending an interview in South Africa. More information can be found on the South African government's immigration website.

Language resources

English is widely spoken in East London, making it easy for expats to integrate into the community. However, it's recommended to learn some basic local languages, including Xhosa and Zulu, to better connect with the local population.

Housing

Living costs in East London are relatively affordable compared to other urban centers in South Africa. Rent for a room in a shared house starts at around 3,000 ZAR ($175) per month, while a one-bedroom apartment costs around 4,500 ZAR ($270) per month. For families, a two-bedroom apartment can cost between 5,500 ZAR ($320) and 9,000 ZAR ($525) per month, while a three-plus bedroom house ranges from 8,000 ZAR ($465) to 15,000 ZAR ($880) per month.

Groceries

Grocery expenses in East London are reasonable, with basic staples like bread, fruits, and vegetables readily available in local supermarkets. Monthly food expenses for a single person can range from 3,000 ZAR ($175) to 5,000 ZAR ($300), depending on lifestyle and dietary preferences.

Transportation

Getting around East London is relatively inexpensive. A taxi ride within the city center costs around 100 ZAR ($6) on average, while a bus fare starts at 25 ZAR ($1.50). Monthly passes are available for both buses and taxis, providing considerable savings for frequent commuters.

East London has a mild subtropical climate with hot, humid summers (Dec-Feb) and mild, wet winters (Jun-Aug). Temperatures can reach up to 32°C in summer, while winters see lows of around 12°C. Humidity is generally high, especially during summer storms. However, the coastal location offers a pleasant sea breeze, providing relief from the heat.

East London's economy is primarily based on commerce, transport, and manufacturing. Major industries in the area include food processing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Several large multinational companies have operations in the city, providing ample job opportunities for expats in a range of fields, including finance, law, and technology.

Access to healthcare is affordable and world-class in East London. The city boasts several top-rated hospitals, such as St George's Hospital and Grey's Hospital, which offer a full range of medical services. Private healthcare facilities, such as Vincent Private Hospital and Kingsway Hospital, are also available, providing expats with a choice of medical providers.

East London is easily navigable, with a range of transportation options available. The city's public transportation system includes taxis, minibus taxis (commuter vans), and buses, operated by East London Metro (ELM), Metrobus, and A Re Yeng. There is also a train station, connecting East London to Port Elizabeth and other major cities in the province.

While crime rates can be high in some areas of East London, especially in the townships, overall, the city is considered relatively safe compared to other urban centers in South Africa. Expats should exercise caution and avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas. It's recommended to take all necessary precautions, such as securing valuables and locking doors and windows.