South Africa’s richest city is falling behind its biggest rivals

• Johannesburg's unemployment rate is 35.9% as of the second quarter of 2026.
• Johannesburg contributes 16% to South Africa's GDP, while Lagos accounts for 30% of Nigeria's GDP.
• Despite its economic challenges, Johannesburg remains the driving force behind South Africa's economy, with households earning an average salary 57% higher than the national average.