Compare & Save on US dollar to South African rand exchange rates. Latest US dollar to rand analysis and review of forecasts.
In this US dollar to rand (USD/ZAR) rate guide:
Exchange rates can vary significantly between different currency exchange providers, so it's important to compare US dollar (USD) to South African rand (ZAR) rates from different sources before making a conversion.
This exchange rate calculator makes it easy to compare the Total Cost you are being charged on US dollar to rand currency rates and the possible savings of using various providers.
Loading comparison rates...
|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|||
US dollar (USD) to South African rand (ZAR) market data - latest interbank mid-rate, trend, chart & historic rates.
| Date | USD/ZAR | Change | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
12 May 2023 | 19.31 | 1.8% ▲ | 2 Week |
25 Feb 2023 | 18.42 | 6.7% ▲ | 3 Month |
26 May 2022 | 15.71 | 25.1% ▲ | 1 Year |
27 May 2018 | 12.49 | 57.4% ▲ | 5 Year |
28 May 2013 | 9.7258 | 102.1% ▲ | 10 Year |
31 May 2003 | 8.0725 | 143.5% ▲ | 20 Year |
FX analysts forecast that the USD to ZAR exchange rate will continue to trade with volatility, as the market sentiment remains bearish due to the escalating trade tension between the US and China. The South African rand is likely to remain under pressure due to the country's vulnerabilities such as rolling power blackouts, political uncertainty, and record unemployment, which has led to a downgrade in the country's credit rating. The US Dollar's strength over the past year is expected to reverse in 2023 as the Fed's interest rate hikes cycle comes to an end, which could possibly cause some weakening of the USD in the long-term. However, in the short-term, the USD to ZAR rate is expected to remain high, having traded at 19.80 recently, which is 7.2% above its 3-month average of 18.47. This confirms the strong US Dollar and weak South African rand situation currently prevailing in the market.
Read our full analysis of USD to ZAR forecasts.
There are several ways to save on exchange rates when converting US dollar to South African rand:
Generally speaking, if you are buying South African rand with US dollar, then it's better for the USD/ZAR exchange rate to be higher.
However working against you are the fees all foreign exchange providers charge for providing their service. These fees is usually contained within the exchange rate margin (or difference to the mid-rate).
The transaction margin you end up being charged can be considerably reduced by around a few percent (of total amount being exchanged) for travel money and possibly over 5% to 6% when sending money. The exact potential savings depends on the currencies being exchanged and the amount you are transferring and if you are willing to shop around.
Our real-time foreign transfer and travel money/cards comparison calculators make shopping around easy and help you calculate how much you can save.
It's worth noting that while these tips can help you save on exchange rates, it's important to be aware that no single method is guaranteed to provide the best exchange rate in every situation, and it may require some research and comparison-shopping to find the best option for your specific needs.
It is almost impossible to predict what an exchange rate will do in the future, the best approach is to monitor the currency markets and transact when an exchange rate moves in your favour.
To help with this you can add USD/ZAR to your personalised BER Smart Rate Tracker to track and benefit from currency movements.
Rather than requiring you to set a target rate, our FX Alerts work differently. Once you add a currency pair for tracking in your watchlist we can select to be notified daily for any UP▲ DOWN▼ HIGH▲ LOW▼ alerts over a range of periods over the recent 90 days.
Read our Currency guide to South Africa - a practical currency and money guide to travel, living and doing business in South Africa with the South African rand.
 United States (USD) |  South Africa (ZAR) |
South Africa has a high crime rate, and certain areas or neighborhoods can be dangerous for foreigners. However, many areas are safe and tourist-friendly. It is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying valuables and stay in well-populated areas. Americans travelling to South Africa are recommended to check the U.S. Department of State website for travel advisories and to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
The cost of living in South Africa is relatively low compared to other countries in the world. However, it is important to note that the cost of living can vary greatly depending on the specific location within the country.
Read more at our South Africa (ZAR) country guide
Forecasts disclaimer: Please be advised that the forecasts and analysis of market data presented on BestExchangeRates.com are solely a review and compilation of forecasts from various market experts and economists. These forecasts are not meant to reflect the opinions or views of BestExchangeRates.com or its affiliates, nor should they be construed as a recommendation or advice to engage in any financial transactions. Read more
^ Scroll back up to ^
^