Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Johannesburg 2025

Looking for the right place to live, invest or stay in Joburg this year?
From the glitzy streets of Sandton to the artsy charm of Melville, Johannesburg is a city of contrasts – and every suburb has its own rhythm. Whether you’re chasing top schools, easy commutes, or a café-lined lifestyle, here’s your ultimate 2025 guide to the best neighbourhoods in Joburg.

Also read: Load Shedding in Joburg: How Power Cuts Are Reshaping Daily Life

Sandton: The Wealthy Hub

If you’re after luxury, convenience, and top-tier security – Sandton is Joburg’s crown jewel.

Safety and Security
Sandton is considered one of the safest areas in the city, thanks to its gated communities and constant private security patrols. Elite suburbs like Sandhurst and Hyde Park lead the pack.

Property Values

• Apartments start at R1.5 million

• High-end homes in Bryanston can go well beyond R10 million

Transport

• Gautrain station connects to Pretoria and OR Tambo

• Ride-hailing and private cars dominate

Schools & Education

• Top Schools: Redhill School, Crawford Sandton, St Stithians College

• Nearby Universities: University of Johannesburg (UJ)

Job Opportunities
As the financial capital of South Africa, Sandton houses corporate HQs, banks, and major law firms – perfect for professionals.

Rosebank: The Trendy Choice

Stylish, safe, and walkable – Rosebank is ideal for creatives, young professionals, and culture lovers.

Safety and Security
Highly secure, especially around the malls, commercial zones, and new residential blocks.

Property Values

• Apartments start at R1 million

• Luxury homes go much higher

Transport

• Gautrain access

• One of the most pedestrian-friendly suburbs in Joburg

Schools & Education

• Top Schools: Kingsmead College, St Teresa’s School

• Colleges & Varsities: Rosebank College, Wits University nearby

Job Opportunities
A fast-growing hub for tech, fashion, retail, and creative industries – plus a great café culture.

Image 1: Andrea Piacquadio (Pexels)

Fourways: The Family-Friendly Suburb

Plenty of space, top schools, and lifestyle estates make Fourways a favourite for growing families.

Safety and Security
Secure with numerous gated estates like Dainfern and Cedar Lakes. Most estates include 24/7 patrols.

Property Values

• Apartments from R800,000

• Houses range from R1.5 million to R5 million+

Transport

• Public transport is limited

• Most residents rely on private cars or ride-hailing apps

Schools & Education

• Top Schools: Crawford Fourways, Reddam House, Fourways High

• Tertiary Access: Colleges in Sandton and Randburg

Job Opportunities
A growing market for retail, hospitality, and small businesses – plus easy access to nearby business hubs.

Randburg: The Affordable All-Rounder

A blend of affordability and access, Randburg is ideal for first-time buyers and budget-conscious families.

Safety and Security
Secure zones like Ferndale, Northcliff, and Blairgowrie are popular. Gated communities offer extra peace of mind.

Property Values

• Apartments from R600,000

• Houses from R1 million and up

Transport

• Minibus taxis and Metrobus routes

• Car travel remains the most convenient

Schools & Education

• Top Schools: King’s School, Aurora, Randpark High

• Colleges & Media Schools: Vega, Boston Media House

Image 2: CDC (Pexels)

Job Opportunities
Known for jobs in media, retail, and proximity to Sandton’s corporate world.

Bedfordview: The Suburban Dream

Leafy, calm, and secure – Bedfordview is a popular pick for professionals and families seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Safety and Security
Excellent – most homes are in secure estates or gated communities like Senderwood and Morninghill.

Property Values

• Homes start around R1.5 million

• Luxury estates can hit R10 million

Transport

• Limited public transport

• Private vehicle is a must

Schools & Education

• Top Schools: St Benedict’s College, Bedfordview Primary, Reddam House

• University Access: Close to Wits and UJ

Job Opportunities
Well-positioned near Johannesburg CBD and East Rand commercial hubs.

Melville: The Artsy Retreat

Vibrant, bohemian, and full of character – Melville is the go-to for creatives and students.

Safety and Security
Generally safe, especially with active neighbourhood watch groups. Crime levels are lower than in other inner-city spots.

Property Values

• Apartments from R700,000

• Homes from R1 million

Transport

• Minibus taxis and Uber are common

• Highly walkable and bike-friendly

Schools & Education

• Local Schools: Auckland Park Prep, Melville Primary

• Nearby Varsities: UJ and Wits

Job Opportunities
Great for artists, academics, freelancers, and those working at nearby media houses or universities.

Parkhurst: The Village Charm

A walkable lifestyle and village feel with boutique cafés and small-town vibes – Parkhurst blends charm with convenience.

Safety and Security
Strong sense of community, supported by private security and neighbourhood groups.

Property Values

• Homes start around R2 million

• A popular pick for young professionals and couples

Transport

• Public transport is limited

• Best explored by foot, bicycle, or car

Schools & Education

• Nearby Schools: Parktown High for Girls, Greenside High

• Tertiary Access: Wits, Rosebank College

Job Opportunities
Close to Sandton and Rosebank, with a thriving hospitality and retail scene right in the suburb.

Whether you’re chasing the buzz of Rosebank, the prestige of Sandton, or the creativity of Melville, Johannesburg has a neighbourhood to suit every lifestyle. Prioritise your needs – be it school zones, job access, or community – and you’ll find your perfect match in the City of Gold.

Also read: How to Get a City of Johannesburg Refund in 2025: Full Guide

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Source: Time Out, loadem.co.za

Featured Image: David McBee (Pexels)