South Africa vs India
Comprehensive comparison of economic, demographic and social indicators
Key Indicators
| Indicator | South Africa | India | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDP (nominal) | $401.14B | $3.91T | 2024 |
| GDP per capita | $6,267 | $2,695 | 2024 |
| Population | 64.0M | 1.45B | 2024 |
| GDP growth rate | 0.53% | 6.49% | 2024 |
| Inflation rate | 4.36% | 4.95% | 2024 |
| Unemployment rate | 32.39% | 4.22% | 2025 |
| Life expectancy | 66.1 years | 72.0 years | 2023 |
| Surface area (sq. km) | 1,219,090 km2 | 3,287,260 km2 | 2023 |
South Africa vs India: Analysis
India has a larger economy than South Africa, with a nominal GDP roughly 9.7 times greater based on 2024 data. South Africa recorded a GDP of $401.14B, while India stood at $3.91T.
In terms of GDP per capita, South Africa leads over India. South Africa has a per capita output of $6,267, compared to $2,695 for India.
India has a larger population than South Africa. South Africa is home to approximately 64.0M people, while India has about 1.45B.
By surface area, India is the larger country. South Africa covers 1,219,090 km2, and India spans 3,287,260 km2.
Life expectancy is higher in India: 66.1 years in South Africa versus 72.0 years in India. India has the lower unemployment rate (South Africa: 32.39%, India: 4.22%). Inflation stands at 4.36% in South Africa and 4.95% in India.
These figures are drawn from World Bank Open Data and reflect the most recent available reporting year for each indicator. For historical trends and additional indicators, explore the individual country profiles on NationStat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has a larger GDP, South Africa or India?
India has the larger GDP. South Africa has a GDP of $401.14B (2024), while India has $3.91T (2024). Source: World Bank.
What is the population difference between South Africa and India?
The population difference is approximately 1.39B. South Africa has 64.0M people (2024), and India has 1.45B (2024). Source: World Bank.
Is South Africa richer than India?
By GDP per capita, South Africa is wealthier. South Africa has a GDP per capita of $6,267 (2024), compared to $2,695 for India (2024). Source: World Bank.
Which country has higher life expectancy, South Africa or India?
India has higher life expectancy. South Africa: 66.1 years (2023), India: 72.0 years (2023). Source: World Bank.
Which country is bigger, South Africa or India?
India is larger by area. South Africa covers 1,219,090 km2, while India covers 3,287,260 km2. Source: World Bank.