Underwriter salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Underwriter in South Africa is approximately 164,727 ZAR (8,241 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Underwriter do?

An underwriter is a professional responsible for assessing and evaluating risks associated with insurance policies, loans, or investments. They analyze and review various factors such as financial statements, credit history, property appraisals, and market trends to determine the level of risk involved. Underwriters use this information to decide whether to approve or reject applications for insurance coverage or loans, and also to set appropriate terms and conditions. They play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses and individuals receive fair and accurate coverage or financing based on their risk profile. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of industry regulations are essential for underwriters to make informed decisions. The occupation requires effective communication and negotiation skills to work with clients, agents, and other professionals in the industry.

Skills: underwriter, risk assessment, insurance, loans, investments, financial analysis
Job industry: Insurance

How much does Underwriter make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Underwriter a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Underwriter is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Underwriter?

High salary for Underwriter would be somewhere between 181,200 ZAR and 238,854 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Underwriter in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 164,727 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 13,727 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,168 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 79 ZAR per hour
By working as Underwriter a person can save up to 416 USD per month or 4,987 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Underwriter

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in South Africa

Data as of 2025

Random salary:
Emergency vehicle technician (evt) (81,883 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Trader bonds (222,172 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Animator (156,098 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Extractor operator (61,698 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)
Analytical research chemist (141,347 ZAR per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results