2026 · Entry-level focus

Entry-level Midwife salary in South Africa

What first-year midwifes actually earn in South Africa, the path from entry to mid-level, and the hourly rate behind those monthly numbers.

Starting pay
R18 000/mo
After 1–2 years
R30 000/mo
Hourly rate
R104–R173/hr

What you'll earn as a junior midwife

  • Most first-year midwifes start between R18 000 and R30 000 per month.
  • That works out to roughly R104–R173 per hour on a 40-hour week.
  • Education path: Diploma in Midwifery or Advanced Midwifery (post-nursing).
  • Typical experience needed at entry: Maternity ward and labour room experience.
  • Within 3–5 years, mid-level pay rises to around R38 000/month.

From entry to mid-level

Within 3–5 years, mid-level midwife pay rises to around R38 000/month - a 111% increase over your starting salary.

See full Midwife salary guide →

Entry-level Midwife salary by city

Other entry-level careers to compare

See highest paid midwifes →How to become a Midwife