WesBank analyses the real cost of mobility
Millions of South Africans underestimate the true price of the daily commute, and it’s not just about what we spend at the pump. As a leader in mobility and vehicle finance, WesBank takes a closer look at the real effect of how we travel each day, highlighting the one cost we often overlook: our time.
The true cost of mobility
It’s a daily reality that millions of South Africans get to work by car, taxi, train, e-hailing, or on foot. While most of us keep an eye on what we spend in rands, few stop to think about what commuting really costs us in time. The truth of the matter is that time is one of the most valuable resources, and unlike money, time wasted can never be regained. And yet, it’s something we rarely consider when making our commuting choices. “Mobility is not just about getting from A to B. It’s about what that journey costs you in time, in money and in quality of life,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, WesBank’s Head of Marketing and Communications.
The cost of time
A recent University of Cape Town study found that South Africans spend between 30 and 60 minutes commuting one way to work. That adds up to roughly 7.5 hours a week, the equivalent of four full working days each month. Over the course of a year, it amounts to more than 360 hours, or 15 full days spent just getting to and from work. The study also shows that more than half of all trips in South Africa are made on foot. For many people, this isn’t a preference but a necessity. With one in three South Africans unable to afford alternative transport, the burden of time falls even heavier on lower-income households. “Every extra hour spent commuting is an hour away from family, rest or personal growth. That’s part of the real cost of mobility,” adds Gaoaketse.
The cost of choice
No matter if you drive, hop into an e-hailing ride, or take public transport, every choice has its benefits and its compromises.
- E-hailing: Two daily rides at roughly R80 each can cost you around R3,200 a month. It’s convenient and flexible, though the costs can add up faster than you might expect.
- Gautrain: A Pretoria–Sandton return ticket ranges from R120 to R140 per day, meaning a monthly total of about R2,800 to R3,500. It offers comfort and reliability, though you’re tied to specific routes.
- Minibus taxis: At R15 to R25 per ride, your monthly spend would be around R600 to R1,000. It remains the most affordable option, though it is often less predictable when it comes to time and safety.
The value of ownership
Owning a car gives you something many commuters don’t have: control. It offers independence, flexibility, and the freedom to shape your day without relying on anyone else’s schedule. Yes, repayments, fuel, insurance and maintenance all come with a cost, but they also create a sense of predictability that other transport options can’t always guarantee. “When people have a clear picture of their mobility costs, they can make smarter decisions,” says Gaoaketse. “That’s why WesBank offers tools and insights that turn car ownership into a confident choice.”
WesBank’s Vehicle Finance Calculator helps customers see exactly what fits their budget before making a decision. Thanks to collaborations with brands such as Geely Auto, GWM, and JAC Motors, there are now more affordable and accessible vehicle choices than ever.
Rethinking mobility
More South Africans are adopting hybrid mobility to save costs, using small cars during the week, e-hailing for weekends, or combining public transport with other options. Many families have even downsized to one car, balancing affordability with flexibility. Mobility is more than getting from A to B, it’s about freedom. The cheapest option can cost time, while the easiest can cost money. The key is finding the balance that works for you. For more insights or to explore vehicle finance solutions, visit the WesBank blog or try our online calculators.
