Top 10 family neighbourhoods to rent property in South Africa in 2023

    Whether big or small, made up of kids, grandparents, or just you and your fur baby, your family is special. Finding the right rental home takes careful thought, and it’s best to start with a great neighbourhood.

    With high interest rates and the cost of living putting a pinch on local wallets, renting has become a desirable option. Buyers are also switching over and becoming landlords, giving you more options on your search and even rent-to-buy potential.

    The rental home for a family house in a middle-class suburb is on average at around R20,000. The good news is that at this price point, you can find some great suburbs that offer access to good schools, amenities, and easy access to main arterials for work commutes, as well as a stellar lifestyle.

    1. Randburg in Johannesburg North

    Well-connected to major highways and arterial routes, Randburg offers a quick drive to other parts of the city and O.R. Tambo International Airport. You can easily shop for groceries at centres like Randburg Square or spend leisure time at Randpark Golf Course, President Ridge Bird Sanctuary, or nearby Monte Casino. The area also has good schools like SPARK Randburg High School to set up your child for success.

    sandton cityscape in the day

    2. Sandton and Johannesburg North

    With plenty of stunning apartments available at the average price point, the “richest square mile in Africa” offers an upmarket lifestyle and one of the safest urban areas in Gauteng. Parents will love respected schools like Redhill School, St Peter’s College, and Crawford International Sandton. The area’s healthcare facilities like Mediclinic Sandton, Mediclinic Morningside, and Netcare Sunninghill Hospital will keep all members of your family healthy and happy. 

    3. Centurion in Pretoria

    Centurion’s superb position between Midrand and Pretoria along the N1 and N14 national roads makes it a winner if you’re travelling for work. You can find quality but affordable schools like Amberfield College and get retail therapy at the massive Centurion Mall. After work and on weekends, the family can spend time at Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Centurion Country Club, Irene Farm, or Bishop Bird Nature Area. 

    4. Pretoria East

    With friendly, close-knit communities, the suburbs of Pretoria East are wonderful to live in and raise a family. Areas like Faerie Glen, Equestria, and Moreleta Park offer quality living, top amenities, and easy access to major highways — the N1 and the N4. Faerie Glen Nature Reserves offer a tranquil green space while restaurants like Carrafa Restaurant, Fermier Restaurant, and Zest Bistro cater to all tastes. 

    view of table mountain from blouberg beach

    5. Blouberg in Cape Town

    With its scenic views of Table Mountain, fresh air, proximity to nature, and easy-going way of life, Blouberg is a popular suburb to put down roots. Families have their pick of good schools such as Elkanah House Preparatory, Elkanah House High School, Parklands College, and Blouberg International School. The beach is a favourite with swimmers, kite surfers, and windsurfers, providing excellent conditions. 

    6. Southern Suburbs in Cape Town

    The pull of semigration has given Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs a boost, drawing property-seekers in search of peaceful and well-managed surroundings. Made up of areas like Rondebosch, Claremont, Plumstead, and Constantia, you can have an exceptional lifestyle within some of the best areas in the Mother City. The Southern Suburbs boast great schools, top restaurants, and attractions like Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and the River Club. 

    7. George on the Garden Route

    The hub and capital city of the enchanting Garden Route, George is another fantastic option for renters. Besides offering a diverse property market from freestanding holiday houses to golf estate homes, the area enjoys a pleasant climate and superb location. George Airport can be the starting point of fabulous family holidays or you can explore the area’s strawberry farms, wine and cheese tastings, museums, and green spaces. 

    old harbour in hermanus

    8. Hermanus on the Overberg coast

    While previously just a popular whale-watching and seaside holiday destination, Hermanus has blossomed into a sought-after area for permanent residents. The presence of converted holiday homes, ocean-view apartments, and premier estates provides good rental options for young professionals, families, and retirees. The area offers top schools like Hermanus Waldorf School and Curro Hermanus and premier healthcare from Mediclinic Hermanus.

    9. Richards Bay in Zululand/KwaZulu-Natal North

    Although a seaside village at heart, Richards Bay has seen some impressive development over the years. Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre and Lakeside Mall will cater to your family’s every need while Melomed Richards Bay Private Hospital and Netcare The Bay Hospital provide quality healthcare. Well-regarded schools will ensure your kids have a bright future and there’s plenty to keep little ones occupied like a day at the beach. 

    10. Mbombela/Nelspruit in Mpumalanga

    Like most regional cities, Mbombela/Nelspruit offers affordable rentals without sacrificing on comfort. You can easily find a large family house with a swimming pool and good access to schools within your price range. In addition, the area boasts sunny weather, good healthcare, and access to the Lowveld’s best attractions. Your family can enjoy trips to the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, Emnotweni Casino, Mafunyane Water Park, or take a short drive to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. 

    happy young family standing in front of their new rental property

    Find your perfect rental today

    While these areas offer great real estate, a local property expert can help you find opportunities within an area of your choice. Since 1964, Seeff has helped tenants find perfect home matches, with offices across South Africa. To get started, view our properties to let and get in touch with a local Seeff branch today. 


    Author: Seeff Property Group
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