🇺🇸 USD to 🇿🇦 ZAR — Convert US Dollar to South African Rand
1 US Dollar = 16.2220 South African Rand
USD/ZAR Exchange Rate History
🇺🇸 USD to 🇿🇦 ZAR Conversion Table
| US Dollar (USD) | South African Rand (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| $1 | R16.2220 |
| $5 | R81.1100 |
| $10 | R162.2200 |
| $25 | R405.5500 |
| $50 | R811.1000 |
| $100 | R1,622.20 |
| $500 | R8,111.00 |
| $1,000 | R16,222.00 |
| $5,000 | R81,110.00 |
| $10,000 | R162,220.00 |
USD/ZAR 30-Day Market Statistics
Over the past 30 days, the US Dollar to South African Rand exchange rate has fallen by 2.7067%, moving from 16.6733 to 16.2220. It traded between a low of 16.2220 on May 29 and a high of 16.9615 on May 22, averaging 16.5208. With a high-to-low spread of 4.4762%, the pair has been moderately volatile this month.
Frequently Asked Questions
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🇺🇸 About the US Dollar (USD)
The US Dollar is the world's primary reserve currency and the most traded currency on the planet, on one side of roughly 88% of all foreign exchange transactions. It serves as the global benchmark for commodities such as oil and gold, which are priced in dollars.
Issuing authority: Federal Reserve System (the Fed).
🇿🇦 About the South African Rand (ZAR)
The South African Rand is a widely traded emerging-market currency tied to South Africa's role as a major exporter of gold, platinum, and other minerals. It is known for relatively high volatility.
Issuing authority: South African Reserve Bank (SARB).
What Moves the USD/ZAR Exchange Rate?
The USD to ZAR rate reflects the relative strength of two different economies, so it responds to developments on both sides of the pair.
US Dollar (USD): Federal Reserve interest rate decisions, US inflation (CPI) data, non-farm payroll employment reports, and the dollar's status as a safe-haven asset during global uncertainty.
South African Rand (ZAR): Precious-metal and commodity prices, SARB interest rates, domestic political stability, and global emerging-market sentiment.
When demand for the US Dollar rises relative to the South African Rand, the USD/ZAR rate increases, meaning each USD buys more ZAR. The opposite happens when the South African Rand strengthens.
90-Day USD/ZAR Trend Analysis
Looking at a longer 90-day window, the US Dollar to South African Rand rate has risen by 0.8636%, ranging from a low of 16.0831 (Mar 1) to a high of 17.2038 (Mar 30), with an average of 16.6226. The current rate of 16.2220 sits below the 90-day average, which may indicate recent softness in the US Dollar.
Comparing the 30-day spread of 4.4762% with the 90-day spread of 6.7420% gives a sense of whether the pair has become calmer or more turbulent recently. For larger conversions, tracking these ranges over a few weeks can help you choose a more favourable moment to exchange.
How to Convert USD to ZAR
- Enter the amount of USD you want to convert in the converter above.
- The equivalent in ZAR is calculated automatically using the latest rate.
- Use the swap button to reverse the conversion (ZAR to USD).
- Check the chart and 30-day statistics above before large conversions.
The rate shown here is the mid-market rate — the midpoint between buy and sell prices on global markets. It is the fairest benchmark for comparing what banks and transfer services actually charge.
Best Ways to Exchange USD to ZAR
Getting a rate close to the mid-market rate above can save you money, especially on larger US Dollar to South African Rand amounts. Here are common options ranked by typical value:
| Method | Typical Fee | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | 0.3-0.6% | 1-2 days | International transfers |
| Revolut | 0-1% | Instant | Travel spending |
| Bank Transfer | 3-5% | 2-5 days | Large amounts |
| Airport Exchange | 7-12% | Instant | Last resort |
Tip: Always compare the rate you're offered against the mid-market rate shown above — the difference is the hidden markup. Banks often embed a 3-5% markup even in "commission-free" offers.
Rates are indicative mid-market rates for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. See our Terms of Service.