Moving To Port Elizabeth, South Africa: An Insider's Guide

I love Port Elizabeth!  I thought it would be a small lazy little town but it totally surprised me.  And I will definitely be going back. 

If you're thinking about moving to Port Elizabeth, you're not alone. This charming city has been attracting new residents from all over the world for years.

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Benefits of Living in Port Elizabeth

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Port Elizabeth. The city is located on the beautiful Algoa Bay, which offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate is mild and sunny all year round, making it a great place to live no matter what time of year it is.  You'll never find yourself bored or without something new to explore in this vibrant and active community.

Some of the most popular reasons include the affordable cost of living, the laid-back lifestyle, and some of South Africa's best beaches.

Port Elizabeth is a great place to live for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Even though the economy is booming with a large automotive industry, mining, tourism, farming, and manufacturing, just to name a few, the city has a relaxed vibe and is filled with friendly locals. With the skills shortage in South Africa, there is an abundance of jobs in Port Elizabeth for anyone with the right skill sets.

Affordability

One of the biggest draws to Port Elizabeth is its affordability. South Africa already has a low cost of living and Port Elizabeth has an even lower cost of living than other cities in South Africa, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Healthcare and education are of a very high standard.

The cost of housing is one of the biggest expenses for most people. In Port Elizabeth, the average price for a three-bedroom house is around R1 million (US$70,000). This is much lower than in Johannesburg or Cape Town, where the average price for a three-bedroom house is over R3 million (US$200,000).

Food and other everyday expenses are also relatively affordable in Port Elizabeth. For example, a loaf of bread costs around R15 (US$1), and a liter of milk costs around R10 (US$0.70).

The food and wine are exceptional.  Eating out will cost a couple approximately R500 (US$28) for mains, a bottle of wine and dessert.

Job Opportunities

Because jobs in South Africa are abundant if you have the correct skill sets that are on the skills shortage list, Port Elizabeth makes a great choice because of the booming economy. The city is a hub for businesses and offers a variety of employment options. Jobs in port Elizabeth range from customer service and retail to manufacturing and healthcare. 

The city also has a thriving entrepreneurial scene and offers plenty of support for new businesses. If you're looking for an exciting place to build your career, Port Elizabeth is a perfect choice.

Climate

South Africa is a country with a temperate climate, which means that it experiences mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature in Port Elizabeth is 21°C (70℉). The city experiences its highest rainfall during the summer months of December to February. 

The climate is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. The mild winters mean that you can enjoy these activities all year round. And, because the city is located on the coast, you can also enjoy beautiful beaches and water sports.

Attractions that Draw People to Port Elizabeth

Some of the most popular attractions in Port Elizabeth include the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World, Addo Elephant National Park, Penguin Release at SAMREC, Van Staden’s Flower Reserve and Africa’s Longest Double Zipline just to name a few.  Addo Elephant National Park is one of the largest game reserves in South Africa and is home to over 600 elephants. 

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Other notable attractions include St George's Park, which is the oldest park in Port Elizabeth and features a bandstand and fountain; Fort Frederick, an 18th-century fort that now houses a museum; and the Hobie Beach Nature Reserve, which is a great spot for birdwatching.

World Class Beaches

Port Elizabeth is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, or you want to enjoy the waves and sand, there’s a beach here for you.

There are over 20 different beaches to choose from in Port Elizabeth, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. If you’re a fan of surfing, bodyboarding, or other water sports, then you’ll be happy to know that many of the beaches here offer great conditions for these activities. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can enjoy the waves.

Shopping and Dining Options

There is a large range of shopping and dining options, from malls and shopping centers to local boutiques and restaurants.

The surrounding areas are home to a large variety of farms, and even though most of the produce is exported, there is enough to share so restaurants are able to offer world-class food.

So why not come and see for yourself why people are moving to Port Elizabeth? With its world-class beaches and ideal location, it’s easy to see why this city is becoming more and more popular.