Despite improvements in access to basic services, millions of people in South Africa continue to face poverty and unemployment challenges.
This is according to the 2025 General Household Survey released by Statistics South Africa.
The report highlights progress in several key sectors affecting household living conditions across the country.
According to the findings, more than 90% of households now have access to electricity, while access to formal housing and piped water has also improved.
However, the survey shows that economic hardship remains widespread, with more than half of South African households relying on social grants in some form.
The report further found that nearly a quarter of households depend on social grants as their primary means of survival.
The findings reflect the continued pressure on vulnerable communities amid high unemployment and rising living costs.