Top 10 Social Housing Projects in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s bustling City of Gold, home to over 5 million people, grapples with a housing crisis, yet shines through innovative social housing solutions. Designed for low to middle-income earners (R1,850–R22,000/month), social housing provides affordable, quality rentals in vibrant urban hubs like Newtown and Braamfontein. Backed by institutions like the Johannesburg Housing Company (JHC) and JOSHCO, these projects combat a 220,000-unit housing backlog while fostering community and stability. This evergreen guide, crafted with local expertise and credible sources, ranks the top 10 social housing projects in Johannesburg for 2025, detailing their units, costs, and unique features. Whether you’re a young professional in Sandton or a family in Soweto, these projects offer safe, sustainable homes, transforming lives in the heart of South Africa’s economic hub.

Top 10 Social Housing Projects in Johannesburg

1. Umndeni Gardens (JHC)

  • Location: 2 Newton St, Newtown, Johannesburg

  • Description: Launched in 2010, Umndeni Gardens offers 351 units (1- and 2-bedroom) in 3-storey walk-up blocks. Part of JHC’s Brickfields precinct, it features communal courtyards, 24/7 security, and proximity to the M1 highway. Ideal for families, it fosters community through tenant workshops.

  • Units & Cost: 1-bedroom (R2,500–R3,500/month), 2-bedroom (R3,800–R5,000/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, South African citizen/permanent resident.

  • Why Choose: Its central location and family-friendly design earn high tenant satisfaction.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

2. Ukhamba Mansions (JHC)

  • Location: 17 Mooi St, Johannesburg CBD

  • Description: This 19-storey tower, opened in 2015, houses 222 1-bedroom apartments tailored for young professionals. With 24/7 CCTV, on-site management, and proximity to Park Station, it’s a hub for urban dwellers. Makhulong a Matala programs offer tenant support like health checks.

  • Units & Cost: 1-bedroom (R2,800–R4,000/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, no prior property ownership.

  • Why Choose: Its modern design and CBD access make it a top choice for singles.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

3. JOSHCO Devland Housing

  • Location: Devland Ext 27, Soweto, Johannesburg

  • Description: Celebrated in 2018 by former mayor Herman Mashaba, this JOSHCO project offers 184 units (bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom) built for R116 million. Located in Soweto, it serves informal traders and backyard dwellers with secure, affordable homes near amenities.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,200–R1,800/month), 1-bedroom (R2,000–R3,000/month), 2-bedroom (R3,500–R4,500/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,850–R22,000/month, registered with JOSHCO.

  • Why Choose: Its low rents and Soweto location uplift underserved communities.

  • Contact: www.joshco.co.za, +27 11 406 7300

4. Lethabong Mansions (JHC)

  • Location: Cnr Mooi & Pritchard Sts, Johannesburg CBD

  • Description: Opened in 2012, Lethabong (“Place of Joy” in Sesotho) offers 132 units (bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom) across 7 floors. Its CBD corner location ensures easy access to jobs and transport. Community programs include elderly workshops and food parcels.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,800–R2,500/month), 1-bedroom (R2,700–R3,800/month), 2-bedroom (R4,000–R5,200/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, dependants required.

  • Why Choose: Its vibrant community and central access are ideal for families and seniors.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

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5. Elangeni Gardens (JHC)

  • Location: 44 Marshall St, Marshalltown, Johannesburg

  • Description: This 4-storey walk-up townhouse complex, built around an open courtyard, houses 168 units (1- and 2-bedroom). Its Marshalltown location offers urban vibrancy, with 24/7 security and tenant engagement via Makhulong a Matala, including gym sessions for seniors.

  • Units & Cost: 1-bedroom (R2,600–R3,600/month), 2-bedroom (R3,900–R5,000/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, South African ID/permit.

  • Why Choose: Its courtyard design and community focus enhance tenant lifestyles.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

6. Landrost Mansions (JHC)

  • Location: 48 Nugget St, Joubert Park, Johannesburg

  • Description: A former five-star hotel, Landrost Mansions retains luxury fittings in its 104 units (bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom) across 7 floors. Located in Joubert Park, it offers secure parking and historic charm, with health screenings for elderly tenants.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,900–R2,600/month), 1-bedroom (R2,800–R3,900/month), 2-bedroom (R4,100–R5,300/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, no prior property ownership.

  • Why Choose: Its heritage appeal and senior-friendly services stand out.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

7. Phumulani Gardens (JHC)

  • Location: 1 Viljoen St, Newtown, Johannesburg

  • Description: Part of JHC’s Brickfields legacy, Phumulani (“Place of Rest” in Zulu) offers 78 units (bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom) across 6 floors. Its Newtown location ensures cultural vibrancy, with tenant committees promoting cleanliness and community.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,800–R2,400/month), 1-bedroom (R2,600–R3,700/month), 2-bedroom (R3,800–R4,900/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, dependants preferred.

  • Why Choose: Its cultural hub location and tenant engagement are highly rated.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

8. AFHCO City Centre Projects

  • Location: Various, including 45 Commissioner St, Johannesburg CBD

  • Description: The Affordable Housing Company (AFHCO), supported by AFD loans, rehabilitates abandoned CBD buildings into social housing. Projects like Sylvadale Apartments (64 units, 6 storeys) offer bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom units with modern amenities and 24/7 security.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,700–R2,300/month), 1-bedroom (R2,500–R3,500/month), 2-bedroom (R3,600–R4,800/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,850–R15,000/month, lease agreement required.

  • Why Choose: Its large-scale urban renewal efforts revitalize downtown Jozi.

  • Contact: www.afhco.co.za, +27 11 333 1234

9. Legae Gardens (JHC)

  • Location: 3 Carr St, Newtown, Johannesburg

  • Description: Meaning “Home” in Setswana, Legae Gardens is a 13-storey building with 157 units (bachelor, 1-, and 2-bedroom). Its Newtown location offers proximity to cultural sites like Museum Africa, with tenant programs fostering community ties.

  • Units & Cost: Bachelor (R1,900–R2,500/month), 1-bedroom (R2,700–R3,800/month), 2-bedroom (R4,000–R5,200/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, South African citizen/permit.

  • Why Choose: Its cultural and community focus makes it a Newtown gem.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

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10. Hlanganani Gardens (JHC)

  • Location: 100 Northern Parkway, Cosmo City, Roodepoort, Johannesburg

  • Description: Located in Cosmo City, Hlanganani (“Come Together” in Zulu) offers 140 units (1- and 2-bedroom) in a 6-storey complex. It serves Roodepoort’s growing community with secure parking and access to schools and malls, supported by JHC’s tenant workshops.

  • Units & Cost: 1-bedroom (R2,400–R3,400/month), 2-bedroom (R3,700–R4,800/month).

  • Eligibility: Income R1,500–R15,000/month, dependants required.

  • Why Choose: Its suburban setting and community programs suit families.

  • Contact: www.jhc.co.za, +27 11 241 1234

Why Choose Social Housing in Johannesburg?

Social housing in Jozi addresses critical needs:

  • Affordability: Rents (R1,200–R5,300/month) fit low to middle-income budgets (R1,850–R22,000/month), far below market rates.

  • Security: 24/7 CCTV, on-site guards, and access control (Ukhamba Mansions, JOSHCO Devland) ensure safety in a high-crime city.

  • Community: JHC’s Makhulong a Matala runs workshops, health checks, and social events, fostering tight-knit communities.

  • Urban Access: Projects in Newtown, CBD, and Marshalltown place residents near jobs, transport (Park Station), and schools.

  • Sustainability: JHC and AFHCO’s building renovations (e.g., Landrost Mansions) support urban regeneration, revitalizing derelict areas.

South Africa’s social housing sector, backed by the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA), is a model for addressing urban housing crises globally.

Types of Social Housing Projects

  • High-Rise Apartments: Multi-storey buildings like Ukhamba Mansions (19 floors) for professionals and singles.

  • Walk-Up Townhouses: Low-rise complexes like Elangeni Gardens with courtyards, ideal for families.

  • Mixed-Income Developments: Projects like JHC’s Brickfields (Umndeni, Phumulani) blend income groups for cross-subsidization.

  • Refurbished Buildings: Converted hotels or offices (Landrost Mansions, AFHCO projects) preserving historic charm.

  • Suburban Complexes: Hlanganani Gardens in Cosmo City serves families with suburban amenities.

How to Choose the Right Social Housing Project

  1. Assess Income: Ensure your monthly income (R1,850–R22,000) aligns with eligibility (JOSHCO, JHC). Use JHC’s affordability calculator on www.jhc.co.za.

  2. Location Needs: Pick CBD projects (Lethabong, Ukhamba) for work proximity or Cosmo City (Hlanganani) for suburban calm.

  3. Unit Type: Choose bachelor units (Devland, R1,200/month) for singles or 2-bedroom units (Umndeni, R5,000/month) for families.

  4. Community Fit: Prioritize projects with tenant programs (JHC’s workshops) for seniors or families (Elangeni, Landrost).

  5. Security Features: Verify 24/7 CCTV and guards (Ukhamba, AFHCO projects) for peace of mind.

  6. Reviews: Check www.nasho.org.za for JHC’s tenant satisfaction or www.joshco.co.za for Devland feedback.

  7. Application Ease: JHC requires ID, income proof, and dependants’ documents; JOSHCO uses online registration.

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Practical Tips for Applying and Living in Social Housing

  • Prepare Documents: Gather certified ID, permanent resident permit, dependants’ birth certificates, and income proof (payslips, bank statements).

  • Apply Early: JHC and JOSHCO have waitlists; apply via www.jhc.co.za or www.joshco.co.za for 2025 openings.

  • Check Promotions: JHC’s Summer Promo (Dec 2024–Mar 2025) offers rental discounts.

  • Understand Leases: JHC requires prompt rent payment and tenant committee participation; JOSHCO enforces maintenance rules.

  • Engage in Community: Join Makhulong a Matala workshops (JHC) for health checks, social events, or elderly support.

  • Stay Safe: Use secure parking (Legae Gardens) and avoid sharing access codes. Report issues to on-site management.

  • Budget Wisely: Factor in utilities (R300–R500/month) and transport costs (R500/month from CBD) when selecting a project.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Enhance your living experience with Jozi’s offerings:

  • Newtown Cultural Precinct (0km from Umndeni, Phumulani): Museum Africa, art galleries. Free entry.

  • Park Station (1km from Ukhamba, Lethabong): Gautrain and bus hub. Ticketed transport.

  • Marshalltown (0km from Elangeni): Street art, cafes. Free entry.

  • Joubert Park (0km from Landrost): Art galleries, public gardens. Free entry.

  • Mall of the South (10km from Cosmo City): Shopping and dining. Free entry.

FAQs About Social Housing in Johannesburg

What are the best social housing projects in Johannesburg?

Umndeni Gardens, Ukhamba Mansions, and JOSHCO Devland lead for affordability (R1,200–R5,300/month), security, and community programs.

Who qualifies for social housing in Johannesburg?

Earners with R1,850–R22,000/month, South African citizens or permanent residents, and no prior property ownership. Dependants often required.

How much does social housing cost in Johannesburg?

Rents range from R1,200 (Devland bachelor) to R5,300/month (Landrost 2-bedroom), based on unit size and location.

How do I apply for social housing in Johannesburg?

Submit ID, income proof, and dependants’ documents via www.jhc.co.za or www.joshco.co.za. Waitlists may apply.

Are social housing projects in Johannesburg safe?

Yes, 24/7 CCTV, on-site security, and access controls (Ukhamba, Elangeni) ensure safety in urban settings.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 social housing projects, from JHC’s Umndeni Gardens to JOSHCO’s Devland, deliver affordable, secure homes for low to middle-income earners in 2025. With rents from R1,200–R5,300/month, 24/7 security, and vibrant locations like Newtown and the CBD, they tackle Jozi’s housing crisis while fostering community through programs like Makhulong a Matala. Backed by JHC, JOSHCO, and AFHCO, these projects revitalize urban areas and uplift lives. Apply via www.jhc.co.za or www.joshco.co.za, gather your documents, and secure a home in the City of Gold’s thriving social housing scene.