Johannesburg – A staggering 39% of South Africa’s domestic workers are paid below the National Minimum Wage, a new report reveals, forcing thousands into a desperate cycle of debt as the cost of living soars.
The 2025 Sweepsouth Annual Report on Domestic Worker Pay and Working Conditions, which surveyed 5 039 workers, found median monthly earnings are just R3 635.
This falls nearly R900 short of the R4 500 required for basic monthly expenses, creating an impossible gap for the 82% of workers who are the main breadwinners for their families.
The Deepening Crisis
The financial strain is widespread and devastating.
One in three workers (33%) are in debt, with a third of those describing their chances of repayment as “hopeless.”
Furthermore, 16% report a decline in their mental health, directly linking it to financial pressure and workplace instability.
“These findings paint a stark picture of economic vulnerability,” said Lourandi Kriel, CEO of Sweepsouth.
“Even those working full-time, sometimes seven days a week, are trapped in a deficit between income and basic survival costs.
“Unless we address wage gaps, abuse, and barriers to skills growth, this cycle of hardship will continue to repeat itself.”
Key Findings at a Glance:
- 39% earn below the National Minimum Wage.
- 82% are the main household earners.
- 58% support four or more dependents.
- 33% are in debt; 35% of those see repayment as “hopeless.”
- 16% report a decline in mental health.
Beyond the Paycheck: A Cycle of Hardship
The report details how rising costs for housing (+11%) and food (+8%) have drastically outpaced wages.
This shortfall leaves no room for savings, forcing families to make impossible choices between food, rent, and school fees.
The emotional toll is significant, with workers citing long, expensive commutes, isolation, and the burden of unpaid care work at home.
Resilience Amidst Hardship
Despite the challenges, the workforce shows remarkable resilience.
A striking 86% of respondents expressed a desire to further their education or gain new skills, aiming for careers in childcare, nursing, or small business ownership.
The report concludes with an urgent call to action for employers, policymakers, and the public to pay a living wage, ensure fair working conditions, support skills development, and adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward abuse.
“Domestic workers are an essential part of South Africa’s social and economic fabric,” Kriel continued.
“By investing in their wellbeing and growth, we are not only protecting one of the most vulnerable groups in society but also creating stronger families, more stable communities, and a workforce that can withstand external shocks.’’
*This article was first published in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za
