What Salary Do You Need to Live Comfortably as a Couple in Pretoria?
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Living “comfortably” isn’t a feeling — it’s a number
Most couples underestimate how much they actually need to feel secure, save consistently, and avoid living month to month.
If you're living in Pretoria, here’s a realistic look at what it costs to live well as a two-person household — without cutting corners or falling behind.
📊 What It Actually Costs to Live Comfortably
The numbers below reflect a modest but well-rounded lifestyle for two adults, sharing living expenses.
| Category | Monthly Cost (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (2-bedroom flat) | R9 000 – R12 000 |
| Car + Insurance | R4 500 – R6 000 |
| Food & Groceries | R6 000 – R8 000 |
| Utilities & Internet | R1 500 – R2 500 |
| Medical Aid | R3 000 – R4 000 |
| Fuel & Transport | R1 500 – R2 000 |
| Entertainment & Extras | R2 000 – R3 000 |
Estimated Total: R27 500 – R37 500
This covers your needs, allows for enjoyment, and leaves room for savings. You’re not splurging, but you’re not stuck either.
💰 So, What Should You Be Earning?
To cover the above comfortably — while saving at least 10% of your income — your combined monthly net income should be R35 000 to R45 000.
This puts your combined gross income (before tax) in the R50 000 to R60 000 range, depending on your tax bracket.
If your income is:
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Below R30 000 net: You’ll likely be cutting back, living with financial pressure, or skipping savings.
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R35 000 to R45 000 net: You can live well and save monthly.
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Over R50 000 net: You can invest, travel, or prepare for larger financial goals like property or family planning.
✅ The Comfort Threshold for Couples in Pretoria
| Lifestyle Level | Gross Monthly Income | Net Income Range | Financial State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Just getting by | R35 000 | R27k – R30k | Strained, low savings |
| Comfortable living | R50 000 – R60 000 | R35k – R45k | Balanced, saving monthly |
| Saving & investing freely | R70 000+ | R50k+ | Financially secure and flexible |
🎯 Key Takeaways
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“Comfortable” means covering your costs, managing stress, and building wealth slowly but surely.
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Housing and transport are your biggest variables. Share a car or find affordable rent, and you increase your freedom.
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Medical aid, fuel, and lifestyle extras quietly eat into your budget if you don’t plan ahead.
🚀 Want Help Planning Around These Numbers?
If you're not sure whether you're earning enough, saving enough, or heading in the right direction, don’t guess.
📅 Book a free 15-minute call with me. I’ll help you see exactly where you stand, and how to build a financial plan that fits your income and your goals.
No sales, no jargon. Just strategy.