10 November 2025 – Every day, millions of South Africans set out for work—by car, taxi, train, e-hailing service, or on foot. Most of us measure the cost of our commute in rand terms, yet rarely do we stop to consider the cost in time.
Time is one of our most valuable resources. Unlike money, it cannot be earned back. And yet, it is often overlooked when planning how we get from A to B.
“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 study by the University of Cape Town shows that South Africans spend between 30 and 60 minutes travelling one way to work—roughly 7.5 hours a week, or the equivalent of four full working days each month. Over a year, this adds up to more than 360 hours, or 15 full days spent commuting.
Walking accounts for over 55% of all trips in South Africa. For many, this is not a choice: one in three South Africans cannot afford other transport options, significantly increasing the time cost, particularly 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
Each mode of transport comes with trade-offs:
- E-hailing: Two trips a day at around R80 each totals approximately R3,200 per month. It offers flexibility, but costs can escalate quickly.
- Gautrain: A Pretoria-to-Sandton round trip costs between R120 and R140 daily, adding up to R2,800–R3,500 monthly. You gain comfort and reliability but are tied to fixed routes.
- Minibus taxis: At R15–R25 per trip, monthly costs range from R600–R1,000. Affordable, but less predictable in terms of time and safety.
Every option carries a different balance of cost, convenience, and time, and what works best varies for each commuter.
The Value of Ownership
Owning a vehicle brings control, independence, and the ability to structure 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 committing. Through partnerships with brands like Geely Auto, GWM, and JAC Motors, more affordable vehicle options are now available than ever before.
Rethinking Mobility
More South Africans are embracing hybrid mobility lifestyles. Some use small, fuel-efficient cars during the week and switch to e-hailing on weekends or for social outings. Others combine public transport with e-hailing to manage first- and last-mile travel. Many families downscale to one car, balancing affordability with flexibility by coordinating schedules or using lift clubs and other shared 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,” says Gaoaketse.
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 strain your budget. The real win comes from choosing the solution that fits your life.
For more insights, visit the WesBank blog or explore online calculators to find a vehicle finance solution tailored to your budget and lifestyle.
