What the 'average' South African really earns each month

Stats SA recently published fresh insights into South Africa's wage landscape, showcasing stark contrasts in earnings nationwide.

Most notably, the median salary, standing at just R5,417 per month in 2022, sharply contrasts with the average of R24,813 per month at the time. This discrepancy underscores a concentration of earnings towards the higher end.

The top 5% of earners boast a median of R35,000, while the bottom 5% scrape by with a mere R1,000 per month. This wage gap persists across various demographics and industries.

Between 2017 and 2022, the total median monthly earnings saw a modest rise of R800, from R4,400 to R5,200. The disparity in earnings extends across gender lines, with men typically earning higher median salaries than women.

Additionally, disparities exist across racial groups, with the white population group leading at a median of R21,000, followed by Indians/Asians at R15,000, coloureds at R5,000, and black Africans at R4,684.

Notably, certain sectors like Mining and Utilities consistently record higher median monthly earnings. Professionals, Managers, and Technicians command the highest median monthly earnings at R24,000, R22,000, and R18,000, respectively.

Gauteng emerges as the lone province with median monthly earnings surpassing the national average throughout the period from 2017 to 2022.

Furthermore, those working over 35 hours a week earn a median monthly income of R6,000, contrasting with their counterparts working fewer hours.

Overall, while progress in earnings is evident, significant disparities persist across demographics, industries, and regions, reflecting the complex dynamics of South Africa's labour market.