Looking for accommodation in Johannesburg? Below is an overview of the city's neighborhoods and rental market.
Johannesburg, nicknamed 'Jozi', is by far the most densely populated city in South Africa, including several ethnic communities, as well as expatriates and tourists. It also hosts Asian and other African communities which are part of its bustling environment. Thanks to its developed economy, it provides several opportunities to foreign professionals looking forward to settling there. The local rental market has therefore been designed to supply for the demand. On moving there, you will also enjoy various leisure activities, especially sports, museums, parks, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Neighbourhoods in Johannesburg
Today, Johannesburg merges with the municipality which is divided into 11 administrative regions. Its suburbs, a real reflection of diversity, are not necessarily more or less popular than others for security reasons. Most of the posh and classy neighbourhoods are found in the North, especially in Sandton which is the business district.
Melrose, Four Ways and Rivonia, among others, are also quite popular for their protected housing estates which are more affordable than villas found in Morningside, Saxonwold and Houghton. In the Southwest, the township of Soweto is deemed to be an apartheid legacy.
Rent prices in Johannesburg
As mentioned above, Johannesburg provides a wide range of accommodation, including studios, apartments and villas. Rent prices generally vary according to the type of housing unit, surface area, security and services provided rather than the neighbourhood. Hence, you will need between R 3,000 and R 20,000 per month.
Important:
You are advised to pay particular attention to security installations due to frequent thefts in the city.
Find accommodation in Johannesburg
You will probably start your housing search on the Internet. Note that Saxonwold, Hyde Park, Westcliff, Houghton, Parkside, Parktown North, Parkhurst, Melville and Fourways are the most recommended neighbourhoods for expatriates. You might include these in your search when browsing offers.
Also, feel free to spread the word among your friends and contacts on the spot or even on social networks. If you have already moved to South Africa, consider classified ads in local newspapers as well. Why not register with a real estate agency which can help you find accommodation as per your criteria and budget more rapidly?
Useful links:
Expat.com - Housing in Johannesburg
Private Property www.privateproperty.co.za
Property 24 www.property24.com
OLX www.olx.co.za
Gumtree www.gumtree.co.za
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.