Everyday millions of South Africans make their way to work by car, taxi, train, e-hailing or on foot. Most of us track what we spend getting there in rand terms, but how often do we consider the cost in time?
Time is one of the most valuable resources we have and unlike money, we cannot earn it back. Yet we rarely factor it into our commuting decisions.
“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
According to a recent study by the University of Cape Town, South Africans spend between 30 and 60 minutes travelling one way to work. That’s roughly 7.5 hours a week or the equivalent of four full working days each month. Over a year, that adds up to more than 360 hours, or 15 full days spent commuting.
The same study shows that walking accounts for over 55% of all trips in the country. For many, this is not a choice. One in three South Africans cannot afford other transport options, increasing the time cost significantly, especially for 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
Whether you drive, use e-hailing or rely on public transport, each option comes with its own trade-offs.
- E-hailing: Two trips a day at around R80 each totals about R3,200 per month. It offers flexibility but costs can rise quickly.
- Gautrain: A Pretoria-to-Sandton round trip costs R120 to R140 a day, adding up to R2,800 to R3,500 per month. You gain comfort and reliability but are tied to fixed routes.
- Minibus taxis: At R15 to R25 per trip, this adds up to R600 to R1,000 monthly. It’s affordable but less predictable in terms of time and safety.
Each option carries its own mix of cost, convenience and time, and what works best differs for every commuter.
The value of ownership
Owning a vehicle brings control, independence and the ability to plan your day with fewer restrictions. While repayments, fuel, insurance and maintenance add to your budget, they also bring predictability.
“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 understand affordability before they commit. Through partnerships with brands like Geely Auto, GWM and JAC Motors, more affordable vehicle options are available than ever before.
Rethinking mobility
More South Africans are choosing hybrid mobility lifestyles. Some use smaller, fuel-efficient cars during the week and switch to e-hailing services for weekends or social outings. Others combine public transport with e-hailing to manage first and last-mile travel. Many families have also downscaled to owning just one car, balancing affordability with flexibility by coordinating schedules or supplementing with lift clubs and other transport options.
“Mobility is personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about finding the combination that gives you freedom and balance,” he says.
Mobility is about more than moving from A to B. It’s about empowerment. The most affordable option might cost you hours. The most convenient might push your budget. The real win is choosing the one that works for your life.
