When digital nomads think of South Africa, Cape Town and Johannesburg often dominate the conversation. But beyond these global hotspots, there are other urban centers quietly carving out a space for remote workers. Pretoria and Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) may not be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list, but they have unique perks that make them worthy bases for digital nomads looking for something a little different.

These cities, along with a few smaller urban gems, combine affordability, culture, and a slower pace of life—all while offering the essentials that nomads need: solid internet, affordable living, and opportunities to explore.

Pretoria: The Green Capital with a Relaxed Pace

Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, often lives in Johannesburg’s shadow. But this city has a lot going for it—especially for nomads seeking a quieter urban base without sacrificing amenities.

🌳 Why Nomads Love Pretoria

Laid-back lifestyle: Pretoria is known for its calmer pace compared to bustling Joburg.

Green spaces: Nicknamed the “Jacaranda City,” Pretoria comes alive each spring when its streets are carpeted in purple blossoms.

Cost of living: Rent and dining are cheaper than Johannesburg while still offering modern infrastructure.

Accessibility: Only 50 km from Johannesburg, making it easy to access international flights or business hubs.

🏠 Where to Stay

Hatfield: Lively, youthful, and close to the University of Pretoria. Good for affordable rentals and a studenty vibe.

Brooklyn: A leafy suburb with chic cafés, coworking spots, and a more upscale feel.

Lynnwood & Menlo Park: Quiet, residential areas with access to malls and restaurants.

💻 Coworking & Cafés

Work In Progress (Hatfield): Bright, modern, and budget-friendly coworking.

Grounded at Echo (Villieria): A cozy café popular with creatives and freelancers.

The Workspace (Brooklyn): Professional coworking with reliable connectivity.

🌇 After-Work Life

Pretoria has a surprisingly rich cultural side:

Union Buildings: Iconic government site with panoramic city views.

Voortrekker Monument: A landmark of South African history.

Freedom Park: A memorial celebrating the country’s diverse heritage.

Groenkloof Nature Reserve: Perfect for hiking or wildlife spotting after work.

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth): The Friendly City

Gqeberha, affectionately known as PE or the Friendly City, is South Africa’s coastal gem in the Eastern Cape. While Cape Town gets international fame, Gqeberha offers many of the same perks—beaches, nature, and affordable living—without the price tag or crowds.

🌊 Why Nomads Love Gqeberha

Beach lifestyle: Warm weather and miles of golden beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, or just working with a sea view.

Affordability: Accommodation and food are significantly cheaper than Cape Town.

Gateway to adventure: Easy access to the Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and charming towns like Jeffreys Bay.

Community vibe: Smaller city, easy to settle in and meet people.

🏠 Where to Stay

Summerstrand: A beachfront suburb with plenty of short-term rentals, popular with students and nomads.

Walmer: Leafy, upscale, and filled with cafés.

Richmond Hill: Trendy, with restored Victorian homes and a creative atmosphere.

💻 Coworking & Cafés

Grounded Work (Walmer): A coworking hub with meeting rooms and great coffee.

Coffee Society (Richmond Hill): Student-friendly café with fast Wi-Fi.

Heritage Café (Central): Good for work sessions in a historic setting.

🏖️ After-Work Life

King’s Beach & Hobie Beach: Great for surfing and evening walks.

Boardwalk Mall & Casino: Shopping and entertainment by the water.

Addo Elephant Park: Just an hour away, ideal for weekend safaris.

Route 67: A public art trail celebrating Nelson Mandela and South Africa’s heritage.

Beyond Pretoria & Gqeberha: Other Urban Gems

If you’re curious to look even further afield, these smaller cities and towns are worth considering:

🌍 Bloemfontein (Free State)

Known as the “City of Roses.”

Central location, slower pace, affordable living.

Great for nomads who prefer quiet cities with fewer distractions.

🌍 East London (Eastern Cape)

A relaxed coastal city with beautiful beaches.

More off-the-beaten-path than Gqeberha.

A good option for surf-loving nomads who want a truly local experience.

🌍 Polokwane (Limpopo)

Gateway to Kruger National Park.

Affordable, quiet, and a hub for exploring Limpopo’s cultural richness.

Cost of Living Snapshot

Compared to Cape Town and Johannesburg, both Pretoria and Gqeberha are budget-friendly:

Accommodation: $400–$800/month for furnished rentals.

Coworking memberships: $60–$120/month.

Dining out: $5–$12 for casual meals.

Transport: Ride-hailing apps available, but a car is useful for exploration.

Safety & Practical Tips

Both cities are generally safer than Johannesburg, but the usual urban precautions apply.

Stick to well-known neighborhoods like Summerstrand in Gqeberha or Brooklyn in Pretoria.

Use Uber/Bolt at night instead of walking.

Be mindful of load shedding schedules—though both cities are adapting with solar-powered cafés and coworking hubs.

The Alternative Nomad Experience

What makes Pretoria and Gqeberha stand out isn’t that they rival Cape Town’s international buzz or Johannesburg’s big-city energy. It’s that they offer a gentler, more local version of urban South Africa.

In Pretoria, you’ll find leafy suburbs, history-rich landmarks, and a slower pace that suits focused work. In Gqeberha, you’ll have the beach on your doorstep, friendly locals, and easy access to the wild beauty of the Eastern Cape.

For digital nomads who prefer affordability, balance, and authenticity over hype, these alternative hubs deliver.

If South Africa is on your radar but you’re looking for something beyond the obvious hotspots, Pretoria and Gqeberha are excellent bases. They might just surprise you with how well they combine affordability, culture, and a livable lifestyle—making them two of South Africa’s best-kept secrets for remote workers.