Should I turn down this job offer in Johannesburg?

Hi!

I read the post by D1238490 and felt so insecure about my possible relocation to Jozi! My would-be monthly salary is a tax free R17300. A mere R10000 for relocation to (not from) South Africa. My job will be a 18-month university project. I am originally a Southern European living in North Europe for 16 years now. I would relocate alone, and my biggest worry is if my monthly salary will be enough to purchase some safety. I don't drive and I am a modestly-built middle aged man. I am really perplexed and cannot decide. I cannot rely on other funds and I should not have to use my little savings while working in Jozi. But, if I accept the position I am afraid that I will have to. Even then, I would only raise something like R20000p/m. It seems to me based on what I read in various forums and blogs that a 1-bedroom furnished flat in an apartment building with 24h security in a relatively safe area would be around R8000-R10000. This amount might not even include utilities. This means that half of my monthly salary could go to basic house expenses. Am I wrong in my math and/or my estimates? Or does this sound like a low-paid job offer in order to relocate from North Europe to South Africa? After the 18 months there is no guarantee I would get something better (probably not), and I would have to return home with almost no savings! Please, dear expats share with me your wisdom living in Jozi.

Thank you!