What R100 could buy in 1995 vs. today
Let's take a look at what R100 could get you 30 years ago...
Thirty years ago, R100 went a long way in South Africa. You could fill a shopping basket with essentials, enjoy a night out, or even cover a significant portion of your monthly expenses.
Fast forward to 2025, and that same R100 barely covers a fraction of what it once did.
According to BusinessTech, inflation has surged by almost 414% since 1995, significantly impacting the purchasing power of the rand.
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In theory, R100 in 1995 is now worth roughly R513.72 based on consumer price index (CPI) calculations.
However, everyday goods, especially food, have increased even more than this inflation rate, making basic necessities even less affordable for many households.
While the overall inflation rate has averaged 5.8% per year over the past three decades, essential goods have experienced much steeper price hikes.
Eggs, for example, have seen a shocking 989% increase since 1995, while white bread has surged by 787%. Milk has also jumped by 624%.
These figures highlight the disproportionate burden on South African households, particularly lower-income families who spend a large portion of their income on food.
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With food prices outpacing inflation, the cost-of-living crisis continues to strain households. Many families are forced to make difficult choices, prioritising essentials over discretionary spending.
Here's what R100 could buy in 1995 vs. today:
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