Studying in Africa could be one of the best options to consider if you ever wanted to explore the cradle of mankind, the beauty of engaging students from different cultural diversities, and enjoying great serenity, filled with love and bustling educational opportunities.
Several cities in Africa stand out as the best destinations for students, considering factors such as affordability, safety standards, quality of life, and employability. Studying in some of the best African cities not only gives you the chance to tap on educational opportunities but is also a privilege to interact with like-minded people, acquire new skills, and engage in vibrant cultural exchange.
South Africa stands out as the leading country with the best cities, sprawling with prestigious institutions and vibrant people. South Africa is also one of the friendliest countries in Africa, attracting people from various destinations.
Cape Town, South Africa
- Safety Index (2024): 26.2
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 159.3
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $426
Cape Town is renowned for its stunning landscapes, brilliant minds, and home to prestigious institutions like the University of Cape Town. The University of Cape Town was ranked the leading university in 2025 Africa by the Times Higher Learning. Cape Town offers a diverse student population and a lively atmosphere with numerous activities and affordable living conditions.
Cairo, Egypt
- Safety Index (2024): 49.3
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 75.9
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $800
Cairo boasts of rich history and cultural experiences, alongside relatively affordable living costs. The city is a major educational hub in Northern Africa, with institutions like Cairo University and the American University in Cairo. It attracts students from around the world, taping on the academic opportunities the city presents.
Johannesburg, South Africa
- Safety Index (2024): 19.2
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 140.3
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $460
Known for its dynamic and organized urban environment, Johannesburg is among the most astounding cities in South Africa, attracting students from all walks of life. Johannesburg has several reputable universities such as the University of the Witwatersrand. This city is known for its rich historical manifest, industrial complex, and financial hub, creating a viable environment for job creation and career development.
Nairobi, Kenya
- Safety Index (2024): 40.5
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 97.7
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $328
Nairobi is the only city in the world with a national park, attracting thousands from around the world. Nairobi hosts some of the most prestigious universities in the region, such as the University of Nairobi and Strathmore University, which provide numerous opportunities for social engagement and career development.
Durban, South Africa
- Safety Index (2024): 19.4
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 145.6
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $370
Durban is an attractive city for students in South Africa due to its warm climate and relatively low cost of living. The city sits on South Africa’s coastline, offering a pompous environment and a palpable choice for students seeking both academic and friendly natural experience. The city boasts a diverse population and educational institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal, making it one of the best for career development.
Accra, Ghana
- Safety Index (2024): 51.9
- Quality of Life Index (2024):
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $280
Once recogenized as Gold Coast, Accra is home to one of the oldest universities in the country—the University of Ghana offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. Accra offers a lively atmosphere with diverse dining options, shopping centers, and access to beautiful coastal areas.
Kampala, Uganda
- Safety Index (2024): 44.44
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 169
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $215
Kampala hosts not only the earliest university but also one of the best in East and Central Africa. Makere University has a strong student presence, churning out the best industry-ready minds. Besides it’s affordability, the city offers access to beautiful scenery and natural surroundings, including Lake Victoria.
Gaborone, Botswana
- Safety Index (2024): 45.65
- Quality of Life Index (2024):
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $200
The people of Botswana (Batswana) are among the friendliest and most peaceful on the continent. The city offers a conducive environment for career and talent growth for students while being relatively affordable compared to other urban centers.
Lagos, Nigeria
- Safety Index (2024): 31.6
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 45.3
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $400
Lagos is a bustling metropolis and one of the largest in Africa, known for diverse populations, economic opportunities, and a friendly environment for academic development. Lagos, the first capital of Nigeria, is one of the most populous cities and the fastest-growing urban centers in the world; approximately 21 million people dwell in the city, offering a variety of culinary experiences, numerous festivals, and lively artistic scenes. Lagos is home to the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, and the Pan-Atlantic University.
Pretoria, South Africa
- Safety Index (2024): 18.1
- Quality of Life Index (2024): 149.6
- Cost of living: apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $460
Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa—the biggest economy in Africa. The city is situated approximately 50 km north of Johasnnesburg, sandwiched between the Highveld and Bushveld regions, and surrounded by the Mgaliesgerg mountains. Known for its humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, Pretoria is an established city for academic excellence, attracting numerous students all over the world. Pretoria is renowned for it’s educational facilities. Including the famous University of Pretoria, University of South Africa (UNISA), and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Sources: NUMBEO
