Dlamini BlessingJohannesburg is a city of contrasts. It is Africa’s economic powerhouse, a place of opportunity, energy, and diversity. But it is also a sprawling metropolis where choosing where to live can be overwhelming. The right area for you depends on your lifestyle, budget, work location, and priorities.
Some want the buzz of the city centre, with apartments and nightlife. Others want the security of a gated estate in the northern suburbs. Families prioritise good schools and safe streets. Young professionals want convenience and vibrancy. Retirees seek peace and security.
This guide ranks the top 10 best areas to live in Johannesburg for 2026. We cover housing styles, price ranges, lifestyle, and what makes each area unique.
Top 10 Best Areas to Live in Johannesburg: Complete Guide
What Makes A Great Area To Live?
Safety: Low crime rates and good security measures.
Schools: Access to quality primary and high schools.
Amenities: Shopping centres, restaurants, parks, and medical facilities.
Transport: Good road networks and accessibility.
Community: A sense of neighbourhood and community spirit.
Property Values: Stable or growing property prices.
Lifestyle: Vibe, culture, and things to do.
Quick Reference: Top 10 Areas to Live in Johannesburg (2026)
| Rank | Area | Average House Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sandhurst | R15m – R80m+ | Ultra-wealthy, privacy |
| 2 | Parktown | R7m – R30m | Heritage, schools, views |
| 3 | Westcliff | R12m – R50m | Views, luxury, space |
| 4 | Houghton | R10m – R45m | Space, golf, prestige |
| 5 | Hyde Park | R8m – R35m | Shopping, lifestyle |
| 6 | Melrose | R7m – R25m | Village feel, convenience |
| 7 | Morningside | R4m – R15m | Family-friendly, estates |
| 8 | Hurlingham | R5m – R18m | Convenience, community |
| 9 | Parkhurst | R4m – R12m | Village vibe, restaurants |
| 10 | Linden | R3m – R8m | Family-friendly, value |
Note: Prices are estimates for 2026. Actual values vary by property size, condition, and exact location within each suburb.
1. Sandhurst
Sandhurst is the undisputed king of Johannesburg suburbs. Located in the heart of Sandton, it is home to business magnates, celebrities, and foreign diplomats. The suburb is a mix of secure estates and freestanding mansions on large grounds.
Location: Sandton
Average House Price: R15 million to R80 million+
Property Types: Mansions, secure estates (Sandhurst Estate, Sandton Gate)
Best For: Ultra-wealthy individuals seeking maximum privacy and prestige.
Why It Is Top:
Sandhurst is the most expensive and exclusive suburb in South Africa. It is home to “Billionaires’ Row” on West Road South. Security is ultra-high with private patrols. Properties are palatial, with large gardens and top finishes.
Amenities:
Close to Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square.
Top restaurants and hotels.
Prestigious schools nearby.
Vibe:
Exclusive, private, quiet, and very secure.
Best for: Those for whom money is no object and privacy is paramount.
2. Parktown
Parktown is Johannesburg’s oldest northern suburb, established by the mining magnates of the late 19th century. It is known for its magnificent heritage homes, including the famous “Mansion on the Hill.” The suburb has a distinguished, academic feel.
Location: Parktown ridge
Average House Price: R7 million to R30 million
Property Types: Heritage homes, modern mansions
Best For: Families wanting heritage, top schools, and views.
Why It Is Top:
Parktown offers a unique combination of history, architecture, and location. It is home to top private schools like Roedean and St John’s, as well as Wits University. The views over the city are spectacular.
Amenities:
Close to Rosebank and Parktown’s commercial nodes.
Top private schools within walking distance.
Wits University and medical schools.
Theaters and cultural institutions.
Vibe:
Academic, distinguished, leafy, and peaceful.
Best for: Families wanting heritage, top schools, and a distinguished address.
3. Westcliff
Westcliff sits on the ridge overlooking the Johannesburg Zoo and Zoo Lake. It offers some of the most spectacular views in the city, with properties cascading down the hillside. The suburb has a timeless elegance.
Location: Parktown ridge
Average House Price: R12 million to R50 million
Property Types: Large freestanding properties, heritage homes
Best For: Families wanting space, views, and proximity to top schools.
Why It Is Top:
Westcliff is one of Johannesburg’s most beautiful suburbs. The views are breathtaking. Properties are large and well-established. The iconic Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff is located here.
Amenities:
Johannesburg Zoo and Zoo Lake.
Top restaurants at the Four Seasons.
Close to Parktown’s private schools.
Easy access to the M1 highway.
Vibe:
Elegant, peaceful, exclusive.
Best for: Families wanting space, views, and a prestigious address.
4. Houghton
Houghton is synonymous with power and influence. It is the home of Nelson Mandela’s former residence and has long been the suburb of choice for Johannesburg’s elite. The streets are wide, the trees are mature, and the properties are substantial.
Location: Houghton
Average House Price: R10 million to R45 million
Property Types: Large estates, freestanding mansions
Best For: Families seeking space, security, and prestige.
Why It Is Top:
Houghton offers large stands, some over one hectare. The suburb is quiet and residential, yet close to the city. Houghton Golf Club is one of Johannesburg’s finest.
Amenities:
Houghton Golf Club.
Close to Rosebank and Norwood.
Top schools nearby.
Themeda Hospital.
Vibe:
Quiet, spacious, prestigious.
Best for: Families wanting space, golf, and a quiet but central location.
5. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is Sandton’s most established luxury suburb. It is home to the exclusive Hyde Park shopping centre and some of the most sought-after residential streets in Johannesburg. The suburb has a sophisticated, cosmopolitan feel.
Location: Sandton
Average House Price: R8 million to R35 million
Property Types: Secure estates, freestanding homes
Best For: Those wanting the ultimate Sandton lifestyle with top-tier shopping.
Why It Is Top:
Hyde Park Corner is one of South Africa’s top shopping centres. The suburb is central, secure, and sophisticated. It is close to the French and American schools.
Amenities:
Hyde Park Corner.
Close to Sandton City and Illovo.
Top restaurants on Jan Smuts Avenue.
Good schools nearby.
Vibe:
Sophisticated, cosmopolitan, central.
Best for: Those wanting a central Sandton location with world-class shopping.
6. Melrose
Melrose is a charming, village-like suburb adjacent to Hyde Park. It has a more relaxed feel while still being close to all the action. The Melrose Arch precinct is a major draw.
Location: Melrose, adjacent to Hyde Park
Average House Price: R7 million to R25 million
Property Types: Freestanding homes, townhouses
Best For: Those wanting a village feel with excellent amenities.
Why It Is Top:
Melrose has a unique character. The Melrose Arch development offers a mix of restaurants, shops, and offices in a pedestrian-friendly environment. The suburb is leafy and family-friendly.
Amenities:
Melrose Arch precinct.
Restaurants and cafes.
Close to Hyde Park and Rosebank.
James and Ethel Gray Park.
Vibe:
Village-like, vibrant, yet peaceful.
Best for: Those who want a sense of community and a vibrant local precinct.
7. Morningside
Morningside is a large, family-friendly suburb in Sandton. It offers a mix of housing options, from townhouses to large freestanding homes, and is home to several popular secure estates.
Location: Sandton
Average House Price: R4 million to R15 million
Property Types: Freestanding homes, secure estates, townhouses
Best For: Families wanting a convenient, family-friendly suburb.
Why It Is Top:
Morningside is well-located, with good schools, shopping, and amenities. The Morningside Shopping Centre is a major draw. The suburb has a strong family vibe.
Amenities:
Morningside Shopping Centre.
Close to Sandton City.
Good schools including Redhill and St Stithians.
Parks and recreational facilities.
Vibe:
Family-friendly, convenient, active.
Best for: Families wanting a central Sandton location with good schools and amenities.
8. Hurlingham
Hurlingham is a well-established Sandton suburb with a mix of secure estates and freestanding homes. It is particularly popular with families due to its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere.
Location: Sandton
Average House Price: R5 million to R18 million
Property Types: Freestanding homes, secure estates
Best For: Families wanting convenience and community.
Why It Is Top:
Hurlingham is central, safe, and family-oriented. It is home to Grayston Prep and other good schools. The Hurlingham Village shopping centre provides local amenities.
Amenities:
Hurlingham Village.
Close to Sandton CBD.
Good schools.
Easy highway access.
Vibe:
Family-friendly, convenient, established.
Best for: Families wanting a central location with a strong community feel.
9. Parkhurst
Parkhurst is a trendy, vibrant suburb known for its village atmosphere and excellent restaurants. The 4th Avenue strip is a destination for foodies and socialites.
Location: Parkhurst
Average House Price: R4 million to R12 million
Property Types: Character homes, townhouses
Best For: Young professionals, foodies, those wanting a vibrant lifestyle.
Why It Is Top:
Parkhurst has a unique vibe. The main streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is walkable and has a strong sense of community. The architecture is charming, with many original character homes.
Amenities:
4th Avenue restaurants and shops.
Close to Rosebank.
Parks and recreational facilities.
Good schools nearby.
Vibe:
Vibrant, trendy, walkable, community-oriented.
Best for: Young professionals and those who want to be in the middle of the action.
10. Linden
Linden is a family-friendly suburb in the northern part of Johannesburg, close to Randburg. It offers good value for money and a strong community feel.
Location: Linden, close to Randburg
Average House Price: R3 million to R8 million
Property Types: Freestanding homes, townhouses
Best For: Families wanting good value, community, and convenience.
Why It Is Top:
Linden is one of the most affordable of the top suburbs. It has a strong community spirit, good schools, and a village atmosphere. It is popular with young families and those wanting more space for their money.
Amenities:
Linden Shopping Centre.
Good public and private schools.
Parks and recreational facilities.
Close to Randburg and Cresta.
Vibe:
Family-friendly, community-oriented, good value.
Best for: Families wanting a good quality of life at a more affordable price point.
Quick Reference: Johannesburg Luxury & Lifestyle Areas (2026)
| Area | Avg House Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sandhurst | R15m – R80m+ | Ultra-wealthy, privacy |
| Parktown | R7m – R30m | Heritage, schools, views |
| Westcliff | R12m – R50m | Views, luxury, space |
| Houghton | R10m – R45m | Space, golf, prestige |
| Hyde Park | R8m – R35m | Shopping, lifestyle |
| Melrose | R7m – R25m | Village feel, convenience |
| Morningside | R4m – R15m | Family-friendly, estates |
| Hurlingham | R5m – R18m | Convenience, community |
| Parkhurst | R4m – R12m | Village vibe, restaurants |
| Linden | R3m – R8m | Family-friendly, value |
Note: Prices are estimates for 2026 and vary by property size, location within the suburb, and amenities.
Schools In These Areas
Top Private Schools:
St John’s College (Houghton, Parktown).
Roedean School (Parktown).
St Stithians College (Morningside, Hurlingham).
Redhill School (Morningside).
Kings School (Hyde Park, Sandhurst).
Pridwin Preparatory (Melrose).
Top Public Schools:
Parktown High School for Girls.
Johannesburg High School for Boys.
Athlone Girls’ High.
Linden High School.
Shopping And Amenities
Sandton City: The premier shopping destination.
Hyde Park Corner: Luxury shopping.
Melrose Arch: Lifestyle precinct.
Rosebank Mall: Popular shopping and dining.
Morningside Shopping Centre: Convenient local mall.
Linden Shopping Centre: Community-focused.
Security Considerations
Security is a priority in Johannesburg. All top areas have:
High walls and electric fencing on properties.
Private security patrols and neighbourhood watches.
Secure estates with access control.
CCTV cameras in many areas.
Even in the best areas, always take normal precautions.
Common Questions, FAQ Section
What is the safest area in Johannesburg?
Sandhurst, Hyde Park, and the secure estates in Morningside and Hurlingham are among the safest, with high levels of private security.
What is the best area for families in Johannesburg?
Morningside, Hurlingham, and Linden are all excellent family-friendly areas with good schools and amenities.
Where do young professionals live in Johannesburg?
Parkhurst, Melrose, and parts of Rosebank are popular with young professionals due to their vibrant atmosphere and walkability.
What is the most expensive area in Johannesburg?
Sandhurst is the most expensive, with properties ranging from R15 million to over R80 million.
What area has the best schools?
Parktown and Houghton are closest to top private schools like St John’s and Roedean. Morningside and Hurlingham have St Stithians and Redhill.
Is there an area with a village feel?
Yes. Parkhurst and Linden both have strong village atmospheres with local shops and restaurants. Melrose also has a village feel around Melrose Arch.
What is the best area for views?
Westcliff and Parktown offer spectacular views over the northern suburbs and the city.
Where can I find value for money in Johannesburg?
Linden offers good value for families. Norwood and Observatory are also worth considering for more affordable options close to the city.
Is Johannesburg safe to live in?
Johannesburg has crime, but the top areas are safe with good security measures. Most residents live in secure homes and take normal precautions.
What is the commute like from these areas to Sandton?
All areas on this list are well-located. Commute times to Sandton range from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Summary: Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Sandhurst if:
Money is no object.
You want the most exclusive, private address.
You value prestige above all.
Choose Parktown or Westcliff if:
You value heritage and views.
You want to be close to top private schools.
You appreciate architecture and history.
Choose Houghton if:
You want space and large gardens.
You are a golfer.
You value a quiet, prestigious address.
Choose Hyde Park if:
You want the best shopping at your doorstep.
You enjoy a sophisticated, cosmopolitan lifestyle.
You want to be in the heart of Sandton.
Choose Melrose if:
You want a village feel with excellent amenities.
You enjoy the Melrose Arch precinct.
You want a sense of community.
Choose Morningside or Hurlingham if:
You are a family wanting convenience and good schools.
You prefer a suburban, family-friendly atmosphere.
You want good value for a central location.
Choose Parkhurst if:
You are a young professional.
You love restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere.
You want a walkable, trendy area.
Choose Linden if:
You are a family on a budget.
You want good value and a community feel.
You prefer a quieter, more affordable suburb.
Final Warning: Visit Before You Decide
Property prices and neighbourhood dynamics change. Visit the areas you are interested in at different times of day. Talk to residents. Check crime statistics. Work with a local estate agent who knows the area.
A home is a big investment. Choose wisely.
Official Resources:
Property24: www.property24.com
Private Property: www.privateproperty.co.za
City of Johannesburg: www.joburg.org.za
—
This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Property prices and area dynamics are subject to change. Always verify current information with local estate agents and by visiting the area.