Average Hourly Rate South Africa
This 2025 salary comparison highlights the average hourly pay across different industries and job types in South Africa, along with useful tips on how to calculate your own rate using a salary to hourly tool.
What Is an Hourly Rate?
Your hourly rate represents how much you earn for each hour of work. It’s calculated by dividing your monthly or annual salary by the total number of hours worked. This measure is often used to compare wages fairly across different jobs and industries, especially when salaries vary widely.
South Africa’s Average Hourly Rate in 2025
In 2025, the average hourly rate in South Africa ranges between R80 and R150 per hour, depending on job type, skill level, and experience. Entry-level workers earn closer to R60 per hour, while specialized professionals and consultants can earn over R300 per hour.
These rates reflect the ongoing economic shifts, rising living costs, and demand for skilled labour in the South African job market.
Average Hourly Wage by Profession
Below are estimated average hourly wages by profession in South Africa for 2025:
| Profession / Role | Average Hourly Rate (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Retail Cashier | R60 – R85 |
| Administrative Assistant | R70 – R100 |
| School Teacher | R100 – R150 |
| Electrician | R120 – R180 |
| Registered Nurse | R140 – R200 |
| Web Developer | R150 – R250 |
| Accountant | R180 – R260 |
| Project Manager | R200 – R300 |
| Software Engineer | R250 – R350 |
| Lawyer | R300 – R500 |
These figures serve as general estimates and may differ depending on the city, company, and level of experience.
Factors That Affect Hourly Pay in South Africa
Several factors influence your hourly wage:
- Education and Skills: Higher qualifications often lead to higher pay.
- Experience: More years in your field increase earning potential.
- Industry Demand: Jobs in tech, engineering, and healthcare pay more.
- Location: Major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town offer higher wages than rural areas.
- Employment Type: Freelancers or contractors often charge higher hourly rates than full-time employees.
Why Knowing the Average Hourly Rate Matters
Understanding average wages across industries allows you to:
- Benchmark your income against market averages.
- Negotiate fairer pay or contract rates.
- Set realistic career goals.
- Make informed job or business decisions.
By comparing your pay with the average hourly rate South Africa 2025, you can ensure your earnings reflect your skills, experience, and value.
Conclusion
The average hourly pay in South Africa continues to rise steadily as more professionals enter specialized fields. Whether you’re an employee seeking fair compensation or a business setting competitive rates, knowing these averages helps you stay informed and financially empowered.
Use our Hourly Rate Calculator or Salary to Hourly Comparison Tool to find your true hourly rate and compare it against national averages for 2025.