Goodbye Western Cape – South Africans are semigrating to this area in KZN instead
South Africa’s semigration trend continues to benefit smaller towns and rural regions, and one area seeing a noticeable influx of newcomers is Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal.
Property experts have said the town, once regarded mainly as a farming hub and tourist gateway, is now attracting young families and retirees from across the country.
This includes buyers from the Western Cape who are being drawn by more affordable property prices.
According to Pam Golding Properties, Underberg, situated in the Southern Drakensberg, offers a combination of lifestyle appeal, space, and value that is difficult to find in larger urban centres.
“Young families and retirees alike find value and lifestyle appeal in Underberg homes,” the group explained.
“The region is drawing growing interest from home buyers seeking space, tranquillity, and excellent value compared to city house prices.”
Established in 1917, Underberg has long served as a commercial centre for the local dairy and cattle farming industry.
The town houses provincial offices, a clinic, and a library, but its role extends well beyond administration.
It is a popular base for exploring the Southern Drakensberg and is often referred to as the heart of “The Underberg,” a larger tourism and adventure area that includes the Garden Castle, Himeville Nature Reserve, and the famous Sani Pass into Lesotho.
Angela Walker, Pam Golding Properties area principal in Underberg, added that the types of homes on offer are part of the attraction.
“Freestanding homes on large 2,000sqm to 4,000sqm stands in Underberg and nearby Himeville are in high demand. These properties offer exceptional value, typically selling between R1.5 million and R4 million,” she noted.
The town’s outdoor lifestyle adds to the appeal. Known as a trout-fishing haven with over 160km of rivers and 60 dams, Underberg also offers canoeing, rafting, tubing, hiking, cycling, horse trails, and access to the Sani Pass.
Why young buyers are making the move
Located just two hours from Pietermaritzburg and three hours from Durban, it provides a peaceful setting within striking distance of the city.
Accessibility is set to improve further with the resurfacing of the R617 between Underberg and the N3, a project currently underway. According to Walker, the area is seeing a healthy mix of new arrivals.
“Younger buyers are moving into the area, relocating their families from cities such as Johannesburg, Durban, and the Western Cape, acquiring homes in the R1.5 million to R2 million mark, while retirees tend to purchase up to around R3 million,” she explained.
She added that affordability is a major drawcard.
“Consider the fact that one can acquire a four-bedroom, 246sqm sectional title unit with spectacular ‘Berg views for just R1.495 million, and it’s no surprise that young families are increasingly choosing to settle in Underberg.”
Schools, community life, and employment opportunities also play a role. Walker noted that the area offers good primary and pre-school options and a strong sense of community.
“Many are relocating for new job opportunities, which is positive news for the local economy, while others benefit from the flexibility of working from home,” she said.
Farming remains the backbone of the region, with employment supported by the large-scale Underberg Dairies plant, agricultural co-ops, and local retailers.
The local property market is also supported by strong rental demand, as many newcomers choose to rent before committing to buying.
Confidence in the area has been boosted further by new retail developments, including a shopping centre anchored by national chains such as Clicks, Boxer Supermarket, and Debonairs.
Smallholdings are another sought-after option. Walker said these properties can range widely in price, from around R3.2 million to R12 million, depending on size, position, and features.
For buyers looking at more traditional homes, there are also affordable options in nearby Himeville.
She highlighted examples such as a three-bedroom home with a rentable cottage and staff quarters on 4,000qm bordering the nature reserve, listed at R1.25 million, and a three-bedroom facebrick home with two cottages ideal for rental income, priced at R2.075 million.
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