Dlamini BlessingRetirement is a new beginning. After decades of working, commuting, and raising families, the time comes to focus on yourself. For many South Africans, that means downsizing, simplifying, and moving into a community designed for this chapter of life.
Johannesburg offers an extensive range of retirement villages. From luxury estates with golf courses and spas to affordable complexes focused on independent living, there is something for every budget and lifestyle.
This guide ranks the top 10 retirement villages in and around Johannesburg for the present year. We cover accommodation options, facilities, healthcare provisions, entry requirements, and what makes each village unique.
Top 10 Retirement Villages in Johannesburg: Complete Guide
How The Villages Were Selected
We considered:
– Location and accessibility.
– Quality of accommodation and facilities.
– Range of services and healthcare provisions.
– Security and safety measures.
– Lifestyle activities and community spirit.
– Affordability and value for money.
– Reputation and management track record.
1. Rand Aid Association: Ron Smith Care Centre
Location: Lyndhurst
Type: Subsidised non-profit
Entry requirements: Means-tested, 60 years plus
Price: Subsidised rates based on affordability
Rand Aid is one of Johannesburg’s most respected names in retirement and frail care. The Ron Smith Care Centre in Lyndhurst offers a range of accommodation options, from independent living units to full nursing care.
What makes it special:
– Non-profit model with means-tested subsidies.
– Comprehensive care from independent living to frail care.
– Beautiful, well-maintained gardens.
– Active community with numerous social activities.
– On-site physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Accommodation options:
– Independent living cottages.
– Assisted living apartments.
– Frail care beds.
– Dementia care units.
Facilities:
– Dining hall with three meals daily.
– Library and internet café.
– Hairdresser and beauty salon.
– Chapel and multi-faith prayer room.
– Walking paths and gardens.
– Workshop for hobbyists.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour nursing staff.
– Physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
– Doctor consultations on site.
– Palliative care.
Best for: Those with limited financial resources, those wanting comprehensive care.
2. Evergreen Lifestyle: Waterfall
Location: Waterfall, Midrand
Type: Luxury lifestyle estate
Entry requirements: 50 years plus, life rights or full ownership
Price: R1.2 million to R3.5 million entry, plus monthly levies
Evergreen Waterfall is the flagship of the Evergreen group. It is a luxury lifestyle estate designed for active retirees who want resort-style living.
What makes it special:
– World-class facilities including gym and indoor pool.
– On-site restaurant and coffee shop.
– Extensive activity programme.
– Beautifully landscaped gardens.
– Located in the prestigious Waterfall development.
Accommodation options:
– One, two, and three-bedroom apartments.
– Duplexes with private gardens.
– Penthouses with views.
Facilities:
– Heated indoor swimming pool.
– Fully equipped gym.
– Tennis court.
– Bowling green.
– Restaurant and bar.
– Library and computer room.
– Craft and hobby centre.
– Theatre for movies and performances.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– Care centre on site.
– Frail care available.
Best for: Active, affluent retirees wanting resort lifestyle.
3. Rand Aid: Thornhill Manor
Location: Modderfontein
Type: Non-profit retirement village
Entry requirements: 60 years plus, life rights
Price: Entry levy from R800,000, monthly service fee
Thornhill Manor is another Rand Aid property, set on sprawling grounds in Modderfontein. It has a strong community feel and excellent facilities.
What makes it special:
– Spacious, park-like grounds.
– Strong community spirit.
– Extensive activity programme.
– On-site care centre.
– Non-profit, so fees are reinvested.
Accommodation options:
– Independent living cottages.
– One and two-bedroom apartments.
– Assisted living units.
– Frail care beds.
Facilities:
– Bowling green.
– Swimming pool.
– Tennis court.
– Workshop.
– Library.
– Dining room.
– Chapel.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– On-site clinic.
– Frail care centre.
– Dementia care.
Best for: Those seeking a balanced, active retirement in a community setting.
4. Auria Seniors Living: Sunninghill
Location: Sunninghill
Type: Luxury rental
Entry requirements: 70 years plus (younger considered with health assessment)
Price: Monthly rental from R25,000 to R45,000
Auria is a premium rental model. You pay a monthly fee and receive accommodation, meals, cleaning, and access to all facilities. No large entry levy.
What makes it special:
– No large capital outlay.
– All-inclusive monthly fee.
– Hotel-style services.
– Luxurious finishes.
– Central location close to Sandton.
Accommodation options:
– Studio apartments.
– One and two-bedroom apartments.
– All with en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes.
Facilities:
– Restaurant-style dining.
– Library and lounge.
– Swimming pool.
– Gym and wellness centre.
– Beauty salon.
– Walking paths.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour nursing staff.
– Emergency call system.
– Assisted living available.
– Frail care on application.
Best for: Those with rental income who want luxury without large capital investment.
5. Huis Karee
Location: Roodepoort
Type: Affordable non-profit
Entry requirements: 60 years plus, Afrikaans-speaking preferred
Price: Subsidised rates based on affordability
Huis Karee is an Afrikaans-oriented retirement village in Roodepoort. It offers affordable accommodation in a warm, community-focused environment.
What makes it special:
– Very affordable.
– Strong cultural identity.
– Caring, family atmosphere.
– Long waiting list testament to its reputation.
Accommodation options:
– Independent living flats.
– Assisted living units.
– Frail care beds.
Facilities:
– Communal dining room.
– Library.
– Chapel.
– Social club.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour nursing.
– Frail care.
– Dementia care.
Best for: Afrikaans-speaking retirees on limited budgets.
6. Rand Aid: Elphin Lodge
Location: Bedfordview
Type: Non-profit retirement village
Entry requirements: 60 years plus, life rights
Price: Entry levy from R1 million, monthly service fee
Elphin Lodge is Rand Aid’s Bedfordview property. It offers upmarket independent living in a beautiful, secure environment.
What makes it special:
– Prestigious Bedfordview location.
– Spacious, well-designed homes.
– Excellent security.
– Active social calendar.
Accommodation options:
– Free-standing cottages.
– Duplexes.
– Apartments.
Facilities:
– Bowling green.
– Swimming pool.
– Library.
– Workshop.
– Restaurant.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– On-site clinic.
– Frail care at nearby Rand Aid facilities.
Best for: Those wanting upmarket independent living in the East Rand.
7. The Village Retirement Estate
Location: Lanseria
Type: Lifestyle estate
Entry requirements: 50 years plus, life rights
Price: Entry levy from R1.5 million, monthly service fee
The Village is set on the banks of the Crocodile River near Lanseria. It offers a tranquil, rural feel while being close to Johannesburg.
What makes it special:
– Riverside location with abundant birdlife.
– Large stands and spacious homes.
– Country atmosphere.
– Equestrian facilities available.
Accommodation options:
– Free-standing homes.
– Duplexes.
– Apartments.
Facilities:
– Restaurant.
– Swimming pool.
– Tennis court.
– Bowling green.
– Walking trails along the river.
– Workshop.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– Clinic on site.
– Frail care available.
Best for: Those wanting country living close to the city.
8. Westhaven Retirement Village
Location: Roodepoort
Type: Lifestyle estate
Entry requirements: 55 years plus, life rights
Price: Entry levy from R800,000, monthly service fee
Westhaven is a well-established village in Roodepoort. It offers good value and a strong sense of community.
What makes it special:
– Established gardens and trees.
– Active residents’ association.
– Good value for money.
– Close to shopping and medical facilities.
Accommodation options:
– One and two-bedroom apartments.
– Duplexes.
– Cottages.
Facilities:
– Swimming pool.
– Bowling green.
– Library.
– Workshop.
– Restaurant.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– Frail care on site.
Best for: Those seeking good value in a well-established community.
9. Amber Lakes Retirement Estate
Location: North Riding
Type: Lifestyle estate
Entry requirements: 55 years plus, life rights
Price: Entry levy from R1.2 million, monthly service fee
Amber Lakes is a modern estate in North Riding. It offers contemporary homes and excellent facilities.
What makes it special:
– Modern architecture and design.
– Lakes and water features.
– Excellent security.
– Close to shopping centres.
Accommodation options:
– Apartments.
– Duplexes.
– Free-standing homes.
Facilities:
– Restaurant.
– Swimming pool.
– Gym.
– Library.
– Walking trails around lakes.
– Bowling green.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour emergency response.
– Clinic on site.
Best for: Those wanting modern, contemporary living.
10. Thembalami Care Centre
Location: Lombardy East
Type: Subsidised non-profit
Entry requirements: Means-tested, 60 years plus
Price: Subsidised rates based on affordability
Thembalami is a Rand Aid property focused on frail care and assisted living. It offers compassionate care for those with limited resources.
What makes it special:
– Exceptional care standards.
– Means-tested affordability.
– Dementia care unit.
– Strong community support.
Accommodation options:
– Assisted living units.
– Frail care beds.
– Dementia care beds.
Facilities:
– Dining room.
– Library.
– Chapel.
– Therapy rooms.
Healthcare:
– 24-hour nursing.
– Physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
– Doctor on call.
Best for: Those needing frail care with limited financial resources.
Retirement Villages Comparison Table
| Village | Location | Type | Entry Levy | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ron Smith | Lyndhurst | Non-profit | Subsidised | Subsidised | Affordability |
| Evergreen Waterfall | Midrand | Luxury | R1.2m – R3.5m | R6,000 – R10,000 | Luxury lifestyle |
| Thornhill Manor | Modderfontein | Non-profit | From R800k | R5,000 – R8,000 | Community living |
| Auria | Sunninghill | Rental | None | R25,000 – R45,000 | Rental luxury |
| Huis Karee | Roodepoort | Non-profit | Subsidised | Subsidised | Afrikaans culture |
| Elphin Lodge | Bedfordview | Non-profit | From R1m | R6,000 – R9,000 | Upmarket independent |
| The Village | Lanseria | Lifestyle | From R1.5m | R5,000 – R8,000 | Country living |
| Westhaven | Roodepoort | Lifestyle | From R800k | R4,000 – R6,000 | Good value |
| Amber Lakes | North Riding | Lifestyle | From R1.2m | R5,000 – R8,000 | Modern design |
| Thembalami | Lombardy East | Non-profit | Subsidised | Subsidised | Frail care |
Life Rights vs. Rental vs. Ownership
Life rights:
– You pay an entry levy.
– You have the right to occupy the unit for life.
– You pay a monthly service fee.
– When you leave or pass away, a portion of the entry levy is returned to your estate.
– Most common model in South African retirement villages.
Rental:
– You pay a monthly rental.
– No large capital outlay.
– Less security of tenure.
– Auria is the main rental option.
Full ownership:
– You buy the property outright.
– You are responsible for all costs.
– Less common in dedicated retirement villages.
Healthcare Provisions
Levels of care:
– Independent living: No regular care, but emergency response available.
– Assisted living: Help with medication, bathing, dressing.
– Frail care: Full nursing care.
– Dementia care: Specialised care for memory loss.
Check what level of care is available on site and what requires moving to another facility.
Costs To Consider
Entry levy:
– One-time payment, usually refundable in part when you leave.
– Ranges from R500,000 to R3.5 million.
Monthly service fee:
– Covers security, gardening, facilities, and some services.
– Ranges from R4,000 to R10,000 in most villages.
– Higher at luxury estates and rental properties.
Additional costs:
– Meals if not included.
– Personal care services.
– Medical insurance or medical aid.
– Levy increases annually.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
At what age can I move into a retirement village?
Most villages require you to be 50, 55, or 60. Some have lower age limits for couples where one partner is younger.
Can I have visitors overnight?
Yes. Most villages allow overnight visitors, though some have restrictions on long-term stays.
Can I bring my pet?
Policies vary. Many villages allow small pets, especially cats and small dogs. Some have restrictions on breeds and sizes.
What happens if my health declines?
Most villages have assisted living and frail care on site or nearby. Check the specific provisions before choosing.
Is retirement village living expensive?
It can be, but there are affordable options. Rand Aid’s subsidised villages offer means-tested rates for those with limited resources.
Do I still pay municipal rates and taxes?
In life rights models, rates and taxes are usually included in the monthly service fee. In ownership models, you pay directly.
Can I decorate my unit?
Yes. Most villages allow you to decorate and furnish your unit as you wish, within safety guidelines.
What security measures are in place?
All villages on this list have perimeter fencing, access control, and 24-hour security. Some have electric fencing and CCTV.
Is there a waiting list?
For popular villages like Evergreen and Rand Aid properties, yes. Apply well in advance.
Can I leave the village whenever I want?
Yes. You are free to come and go. There are no restrictions on movement.
Summary: Which Retirement Village Is Right For You?
Choose Ron Smith Care Centre if:
– You have limited financial resources.
– You need comprehensive care.
– You value a non-profit, caring environment.
Choose Evergreen Waterfall if:
– You have significant capital.
– You want resort-style facilities.
– You are active and independent.
Choose Thornhill Manor if:
– You want a strong community.
– You appreciate beautiful grounds.
– You value the Rand Aid reputation.
Choose Auria if:
– You have rental income but limited capital.
– You want hotel-style services.
– You prefer a central location.
Choose Huis Karee if:
– You are Afrikaans-speaking.
– You need affordable accommodation.
– You value cultural identity.
Choose Elphin Lodge if:
– You want Bedfordview location.
– You appreciate upmarket independent living.
– You value the Rand Aid name.
Choose The Village if:
– You want country living.
– You appreciate nature and birds.
– You are willing to be further out.
Choose Westhaven if:
– You want good value.
– You prefer an established community.
– You like Roodepoort location.
Choose Amber Lakes if:
– You want modern design.
– You appreciate water features.
– You like North Riding location.
Choose Thembalami if:
– You need frail care.
– You have limited resources.
– You want compassionate, professional care.
Final Warning: Plan Early
The best retirement villages have long waiting lists. Do not wait until you need to move. Start researching and applying at least two to three years before you plan to relocate.
– Visit multiple villages.
– Talk to residents.
– Read the fine print of the contract.
– Understand the financial model.
– Consider your future healthcare needs.
Retirement should be the best time of your life. Choose wisely.
Official Resources:
– Association of Retirement Villages: www.arv.org.za
– Rand Aid Association: www.randaid.co.za
– Evergreen Lifestyle: www.evergreenlifestyle.co.za
– Auria Seniors Living: www.auria.co.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Retirement village prices, availability, and policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with the village management before making decisions.