The 15 most envied suburbs in South Africa

A survey of over 3,000 South Africans has revealed the 15 most enviable areas to live in South Africa, showcasing a diverse range of luxurious and scenic locations.

These areas include Camps Bay, Clifton, Plettenberg Bay, Sandton, Constantia, Ballito, Franschhoek, Bishopscourt, Llandudno, Bakoven, Stellenbosch, Knysna, Hyde Park, and the Waterfront.

These neighbourhoods attract attention not just for their breathtaking settings but also for their premium property markets.

Camps Bay and Clifton, situated along Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard, lead the pack as some of the most desirable places to call home.

Clifton, often referred to as South Africa’s “Billionaire’s Row,” boasts properties averaging R88,000 per square meter.

Camps Bay, slightly more family-oriented, offers homes averaging R20 million.

According to Samuel Seeff, chairman of Seeff Property Group, “Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard remains a prime market for both local and international buyers, with consistent demand driving property prices upwards.”

Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, nestled along the Garden Route, offer idyllic coastal living with dramatic scenery and peaceful environments.

While properties in these towns are more affordable than Cape Town’s hotspots, they still exude exclusivity.

A family home in Plettenberg Bay averages R3 million, appealing to retirees and families seeking a slower-paced lifestyle.

Knysna, with its tranquil lagoons and lush forests, offers similarly priced homes, drawing buyers looking for a serene escape.

Sandton, Gauteng’s financial powerhouse, continues to attract affluent professionals and business executives.

With its modern infrastructure, luxury apartments, and proximity to major corporate hubs, Sandton is often called South Africa’s “Richest Square Mile.”

Average property prices here start at R4 million.

Hyde Park, a neighbouring suburb, offers sprawling estates starting at R5 million, appealing to those desiring privacy and exclusivity in the heart of Johannesburg.

In KwaZulu-Natal, Ballito is a coastal gem known for its warm climate, family-friendly atmosphere, and golden beaches.

Homes here average R3 million, making it an attractive option for professionals looking for a balance between work and relaxation.

“We’ve seen a growing interest in Ballito, particularly from families relocating from Gauteng,” said Seeff, highlighting the town’s appeal as a lifestyle and investment destination.

The Western Cape Winelands areas of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Constantia, and Bishopscourt combine natural beauty with cultural heritage and world-class amenities.

Franschhoek, often called South Africa’s “Food and Wine Capital,” offers properties starting at R5 million, attracting a mix of local and international buyers.

Stellenbosch, with its vibrant university atmosphere and scenic wine estates, provides more moderately priced options, averaging R3.5 million.

Constantia and Bishopscourt cater to luxury buyers, with homes frequently exceeding R10 million.

These neighbourhoods are praised for their large plots, stunning views, and proximity to Cape Town.

The Waterfront in Cape Town stands as a beacon of modern urban living. Luxury apartments here can exceed R10 million, offering easy access to the city’s bustling lifestyle, fine dining, and harbour views.

This area appeals to professionals and investors who value convenience and security in a cosmopolitan environment.

Smaller yet equally exclusive neighborhoods such as Llandudno and Bakoven complete the list, known for their privacy and picturesque coastal settings.

These areas are ideal for those who desire tranquillity while staying close to the energy of Cape Town.

“The demand for properties in South Africa’s top neighbourhoods has remained resilient, even amid economic fluctuations.

These areas offer a unique combination of lifestyle, security, and investment potential, making them highly sought after by discerning buyers,” added Seeff.

This sentiment reflects the enduring appeal of these locations, which continue to be synonymous with luxury and aspiration in 2024.

From coastal retreats to urban hubs, South Africa’s most desirable neighbourhoods offer something for everyone.

Their unique blend of natural beauty, convenience, and cultural richness ensures that these locations remain top choices for those seeking the pinnacle of residential living.

Whether for investment, family living, or retirement, these areas represent the height of aspirational real estate in the country.

Read: Top neighbourhoods for South Africans looking to buy property under R1.5 million