Top 20 Best Suburbs in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, the City of Gold, is a dynamic metropolis known for its economic vibrancy, cultural diversity, and sprawling suburbs. From the affluent business hub of Sandton to the trendy, artistic enclave of Melville, Johannesburg’s suburbs cater to a wide range of lifestyles, whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or an expat. This evergreen guide lists the top 20 best suburbs in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on safety, amenities, property value, and community appeal. Each suburb offers unique features, from tree-lined streets and top schools to vibrant nightlife and proximity to business districts. Whether you’re relocating, investing, or simply exploring, this article provides a comprehensive overview to help you find the perfect Johannesburg suburb to call home.

List of 20 Best Suburbs in Johannesburg

1. Sandton

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1.5M–R10M+

  • Key Features: Known as “Africa’s richest square mile,” Sandton is the financial hub with luxury estates, Sandton City Mall, and Nelson Mandela Square. Gautrain access ensures easy commuting.

  • Why Live Here?: Ideal for professionals seeking upscale living and proximity to corporate offices. High security with gated communities.

2. Rosebank

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1M–R5M

  • Key Features: A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly suburb with Rosebank Mall, Keyes Art Mile, and Gautrain connectivity. Home to top schools like Kingsmead College.

  • Why Live Here?: Perfect for young professionals and families wanting urban energy with a suburban feel.

3. Bryanston

  • Location: North of Sandton

  • Average Property Price: R2M–R8M

  • Key Features: Tree-lined streets, large family homes, and access to St Stithians College. Features Bryanston Organic Market and top hospitals.

  • Why Live Here?: A peaceful, family-friendly suburb with proximity to Sandton’s business hub.

4. Parkhurst

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R2M–R4M

  • Key Features: Trendy 4th Avenue with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Strong community vibe with active security patrols.

  • Why Live Here?: Great for young professionals and families seeking a walkable, vibrant neighborhood.

5. Melville

  • Location: West of Johannesburg CBD

  • Average Property Price: R700K–R2M

  • Key Features: A bohemian suburb with 7th Street’s bars, cafes, and Melville Koppies for hiking. Close to Wits University.

  • Why Live Here?: Ideal for creatives, students, and those seeking a multicultural, laid-back vibe.

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6. Bedfordview

  • Location: Eastern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1.5M–R6M

  • Key Features: Spacious homes, top schools, and Eastgate Shopping Centre. Close to OR Tambo International Airport.

  • Why Live Here?: Perfect for families and frequent travelers needing suburban calm and urban access.

7. Fourways

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1.2M–R5M

  • Key Features: Gated estates, Montecasino, and Fourways Mall. Secure with 24-hour patrols.

  • Why Live Here?: Suits expats and families with its upscale amenities and entertainment.

8. Linden

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1.5M–R4M

  • Key Features: Historic charm with restored homes, Johannesburg Botanical Garden, and Emmarentia Dam nearby.

  • Why Live Here?: A family-friendly suburb with a small-town feel and easy Sandton access.

9. Northcliff

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1.5M–R5M

  • Key Features: Scenic views from Northcliff Hill, spacious homes, and proximity to Cresta Shopping Mall.

  • Why Live Here?: Ideal for families seeking tranquility and community spirit.

10. Hyde Park

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R3M–R15M

  • Key Features: Exclusive suburb with mansions, private schools, and Hyde Park Corner mall.

  • Why Live Here?: Perfect for affluent residents seeking luxury and privacy.

11. Westcliff

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R10M–R23M

  • Key Features: Historic Herbert Baker-designed homes, views over Johannesburg Zoo, and lush gardens.

  • Why Live Here?: Suits those wanting old-money elegance and serene living.

12. Parktown

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R2M–R6M

  • Key Features: Home to grand estates, King Edward VII School, and Johannesburg Zoo.

  • Why Live Here?: Great for families valuing heritage and proximity to cultural sites.

13. Randburg

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R800K–R3M

  • Key Features: Affordable homes, Cresta Shopping Centre, and access to Emmarentia Dam.

  • Why Live Here?: A budget-friendly option for families and young professionals.

14. Greenstone Hill

  • Location: Eastern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1M–R3M

  • Key Features: Modern estates, Greenstone Shopping Centre, and secure complexes.

  • Why Live Here?: Popular with young families and professionals for affordability and safety.

15. Braamfontein

  • Location: Inner City Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R500K–R2M

  • Key Features: A student hub near Wits University with trendy cafes, art galleries, and urban renewal projects.

  • Why Live Here?: Ideal for students and creatives seeking affordable, vibrant living.

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16. Kensington

  • Location: Eastern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R1M–R3M

  • Key Features: Historic homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Eastgate Shopping Centre.

  • Why Live Here?: Appeals to families and retirees for its charm and convenience.

17. Midrand

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R800K–R4M

  • Key Features: Affordable estates, Mall of Africa, and proximity to Pretoria.

  • Why Live Here?: Great for professionals commuting between Johannesburg and Pretoria.

18. Ferndale

  • Location: Northern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R700K–R2M

  • Key Features: Tree-lined streets, Brightwater Commons, and recreational activities.

  • Why Live Here?: A budget-friendly, family-oriented suburb with Sandton access.

19. Maboneng

  • Location: Inner City Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R500K–R2M

  • Key Features: A cultural hub with street art, markets, and trendy eateries like Native Rebels.

  • Why Live Here?: Perfect for artists and young professionals seeking an urban, creative vibe.

20. Soweto

  • Location: Southern Johannesburg

  • Average Property Price: R500K–R2M

  • Key Features: Rich history, vibrant community, and attractions like Vilakazi Street and Soweto Theatre.

  • Why Live Here?: Ideal for those wanting cultural immersion and affordable living.

Why These Suburbs Stand Out

These suburbs were selected based on:

  • Safety: High security with gated estates and patrols, especially in Sandton, Fourways, and Rosebank.

  • Amenities: Access to top schools, malls, hospitals, and recreational sites like Johannesburg Zoo and Melville Koppies.

  • Property Value: A mix of luxury (Westcliff, Hyde Park) and affordable options (Ferndale, Midrand) for diverse budgets.

  • Lifestyle: Catering to professionals (Sandton, Rosebank), families (Bryanston, Bedfordview), and creatives (Melville, Maboneng).

How to Choose the Right Suburb

  • Proximity to Work: Sandton, Rosebank, and Braamfontein are ideal for business districts; Midrand suits Pretoria commuters.

  • Family Needs: Bryanston, Bedfordview, and Linden offer top schools and parks.

  • Budget: Ferndale, Randburg, and Soweto provide affordable options; Sandhurst and Westcliff cater to luxury buyers.

  • Lifestyle: Melville and Maboneng for creatives; Parkhurst and Rosebank for trendy urbanites; Northcliff for tranquility.

Tips for Moving to Johannesburg

  • Work with Real Estate Experts: Agencies like Chalmers Estates or Seeff can guide you to the best properties.

  • Check Safety: Opt for suburbs with private security or gated estates, especially in Sandton and Fourways.

  • Use Gautrain: Suburbs like Sandton, Rosebank, and Midrand offer Gautrain access to avoid traffic.

  • Visit First: Explore suburbs like Melville or Parkhurst to feel their vibe before committing.

  • Get Prequalified: Use services like ooba Home Loans to determine your budget.

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Things to Do in Johannesburg Suburbs

  • Cultural Sites: Visit the Apartheid Museum (near Soweto) or Constitution Hill (near Braamfontein).

  • Shopping: Sandton City, Rosebank Mall, and Eastgate Shopping Centre offer luxury and local brands.

  • Nature: Explore Emmarentia Dam (Randburg), Johannesburg Botanical Garden (Linden), or Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden (near Fourways).

  • Nightlife: Enjoy 7th Street in Melville, 4th Avenue in Parkhurst, or Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton.

Safety and Practical Tips

  • Safe Areas: Sandton, Rosebank, and Bedfordview are among the safest due to private security.

  • Transport: Use Uber, Gautrain, or personal vehicles; public transport is limited outside major hubs.

  • Best Time to Move: November to February for pleasant weather (20–25°C).

  • Community Engagement: Join local resident associations in Parkhurst or Northcliff for safety updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest suburb in Johannesburg?

Sandton is considered the safest, with gated communities and high private security presence. Rosebank and Fourways are also secure.

Which suburbs are best for families?

Bryanston, Bedfordview, and Linden offer top schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.

Are there affordable suburbs in Johannesburg?

Ferndale, Randburg, and Soweto provide budget-friendly homes starting at R500K.

Which suburb is best for young professionals?

Rosebank, Parkhurst, and Melville are ideal for their vibrant nightlife, cafes, and proximity to business hubs.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 20 suburbs offer diverse lifestyles, from the luxurious Sandton to the cultural Soweto. Whether you prioritize safety, affordability, or vibrant amenities, suburbs like Rosebank, Bryanston, and Melville provide something for everyone. Work with trusted real estate agents, explore Gautrain-connected areas, and visit neighborhoods to find your perfect fit. For the latest property listings, check platforms like Property24 or Private Property to start your journey in the City of Gold.