Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis with diverse neighbourhoods that offer something for everyone — from tranquil family suburbs to vibrant cultural hubs. Whether you’re moving for work, starting a family, or just seeking a change of scenery, finding the best place to live in Johannesburg can be challenging.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 8 of Johannesburg’s top suburbs, carefully ranked based on factors like safety, affordability, lifestyle, and amenities. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, expat, or renter, this list will help you discover the perfect neighbourhood for your needs in 2024.
1. Sandton: Johannesburg’s Luxury Hub
Best for: Professionals, high-income families
Sandton is famously referred to as “Africa’s richest square mile”, and with good reason. This upmarket suburb is Johannesburg’s financial heart and offers a lifestyle that blends luxury living with convenience. Whether you’re working in the business district or enjoying a weekend brunch at a trendy café, Sandton has it all.
Safety: Highly secure, with private security and gated estates.
Lifestyle: A cosmopolitan vibe with world-class shopping at Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square.
Affordability: High property prices, but worth it for those seeking luxury.
Transport: The Gautrain offers fast links to Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport.
Related Reading: Before deciding on the best area to buy property in Johannesburg, make sure you understand the neighbourhood's long-term potential for investment.
2. Parkhurst: Trendy and Walkable
Best for: Young professionals, couples
Parkhurst is one of Johannesburg’s trendiest suburbs, known for its lively social scene and strong sense of community. The neighbourhood boasts a walkable main street lined with cafes, boutique stores, and restaurants, making it a popular choice for young professionals who value convenience and a vibrant atmosphere.
Safety: Moderate to good, with community-led security.
Lifestyle: Boutique shopping, trendy cafes, and a buzzing nightlife scene.
Affordability: Mid-range, offering a good balance between price and lifestyle.
Transport: Close to major routes and a short drive to Rosebank and Sandton.
3. Bryanston: Spacious and Family-Friendly
Best for: Families, professionals
If you’re looking for large properties with spacious gardens, Bryanston is the perfect family-friendly suburb. Located north of Sandton, it’s close enough to the business hub while still offering a peaceful, suburban feel. The area is home to top schools, excellent healthcare facilities, and well-maintained parks.
Lifestyle: Ideal for families, with access to parks and top-tier schools like Bryanston Primary and St Stithians College.
Affordability: Higher-end, especially for larger properties.
Transport: Well-connected to Sandton, Fourways, and Midrand.
Related Reading: Working with trusted real estate agents in Johannesburg can make all the difference in securing the right home.
4. Rosebank: The Urban Experience
Best for: Expats, professionals, singles
Rosebank is an energetic, rapidly developing suburb that perfectly balances work and play. Its location on the Gautrain line makes it an attractive choice for professionals who commute. Over the years, Rosebank has grown into one of Johannesburg’s most desirable residential areas, with a bustling nightlife, art galleries, and a mix of high-end and affordable dining options.
Safety: Generally safe, especially around commercial hubs.
Lifestyle: Urban living at its best, with luxury hotels, the Rosebank Mall, and the Keyes Art Mile.
Affordability: Ranges from mid- to high-end, depending on the property.
Transport: Direct access to the Gautrain, making it one of the most convenient suburbs in Johannesburg.
Related Reading: Our guide on choosing the best real estate agency in Johannesburg provides expert advice on finding the right professionals to help you with your property search.
5. Melville: Affordable and Artistic
Best for: Creatives, students, young professionals
Known for its bohemian flair, Melville is a hotspot for artists, writers, and creatives. With 7th Street at its heart, filled with indie cafes, vintage stores, and quirky restaurants, Melville is one of the most unique places to live in Johannesburg. Its affordability, proximity to the University of Johannesburg, and artistic vibe make it ideal for younger residents.
Safety: Moderate, with community-led safety initiatives.
Lifestyle: Indie cafes, art galleries, vintage shops, and a strong creative community.
Affordability: Affordable, with a mix of charming older homes and modern apartments.
Transport: Close to Braamfontein and Auckland Park, with good road access to the city centre.
6. Hyde Park: Quiet and Luxurious
Best for: Affluent buyers, retirees
Hyde Park is one of Johannesburg’s most prestigious and exclusive suburbs. Known for its luxurious homes and peaceful streets, it’s an ideal neighbourhood for those looking to escape the city’s hustle while still remaining close to the action.
Safety: Excellent, with private security and well-patrolled areas.
Lifestyle: Exclusive, with easy access to Hyde Park Corner for luxury shopping and dining.
Affordability: High-end, catering to wealthy residents.
Transport: Located near Sandton and Rosebank, offering easy access to major roads.
7. Linden: Quint and Growing in Popularity
Best for: Families, young couples
Linden is one of Johannesburg’s hidden gems, growing in popularity due to its affordable housing and strong community vibe. It has a small-town feel while still offering access to the city’s amenities. With good schools, leafy streets, and a growing food scene, it’s a great option for families.
Safety: Generally safe, with neighbourhood security groups.
Lifestyle: Quaint, with family-run cafes, local markets, and good schools.
Affordability: Mid-range, with many affordable properties.
Transport: Well-connected to Sandton and Randburg.
Related Reading: To learn more about the best areas to live in Johannesburg for 2024, explore our guide.
8. Parktown North: Classic Charm with Modern Amenities
Best for: Families, professionals
Parktown North offers the best of both worlds: historic charm with all the modern conveniences. Its tree-lined streets, large family homes, and proximity to Rosebank make it a popular choice for professionals and families alike.
Safety: Secure, with private patrol services.
Lifestyle: A mix of old-world charm and new developments.
Affordability: Higher-end, but offers good value for the size and quality of homes.
Transport: Quick access to Rosebank, Parkhurst, and the city centre.
Choosing where to live in Johannesburg depends on your priorities — whether it’s proximity to work, access to top schools, affordability, or simply finding a neighbourhood that matches your lifestyle. From the vibrant streets of Parkhurst to the leafy lanes of Bryanston, there’s a Johannesburg suburb to suit everyone. With this detailed guide to the best places to live in Johannesburg in 2024, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect spot to call home.
FAQ
1. What is the safest suburb in Johannesburg
Sandton and Hyde Park are among the safest areas, with private security prevalent and a high presence of gated communities.
2. Which suburb is best for families in Johannesburg?
3. Where do most expats live in Johannesburg?
4. Which suburb is most affordable?
5. What is the most luxurious suburb in Johannesburg?
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