In 2025, groceries in Johannesburg cost more than ever, with the average basket topping R5,656. Families struggle as prices for meat, vegetables, and cooking oil keep climbing, making it hard to afford basic meals. Many people now buy food in bulk or join cooperatives to stretch their money. Despite the challenges, communities show strength and creativity, finding new ways to share and support each other in a city where food means more than just eating it’s about survival and hope.
