South Africa’s largest rental market is gaining momentum, driven by a reverse semigration trend and a growing appetite for affordable urban living. According to the Wise Move 2025 Migration Report, nearly 25% of those who relocated to the Cape have returned to Gauteng — lured by lower property prices, greater economic opportunity, and more affordable rentals.
Gauteng’s rental prices are 20% cheaper than the Cape, with average monthly rents at R9,201 versus R11,285, and property prices approximately 27% lower (R1.3 million vs R1.8 million). Despite high demand, rental escalations have remained modest — just 2.9% YoY, according to PayProp — making the region attractive to both tenants and investors.
Investor hotspots are emerging across the province:
Joburg South & Alberton: Popular for affordability, with rentals from R4,500 to R8,000 and investor returns between R6,000 and R12,500
Boksburg & Benoni: Affordable rentals in the R5,000–R7,000 range, with top-end homes reaching R15,000
Randburg: Broad middle-class appeal, with rentals from R7,000 to R14,000 and larger homes fetching R25,000–R35,000+
Sandton/Bryanston/Fourways: High demand for sectional titles in the R10,000–R20,000 range; luxury homes rent for R45,000–R60,000+
Pretoria East & Centurion: Fast-moving rentals from R12,000 to R25,000, with strong demand from professionals and families
Areas like Eagle Canyon Golf Estate and Joburg North West are also seeing strong rental activity, with homes priced between R20,000 and R70,000. Entry-level investment opportunities in the R500,000–R950,000 bracket are yielding steady monthly returns of R7,000–R12,000.
With 37.8% of Gauteng households renting, and living costs slightly lower in metros like Johannesburg and Pretoria, the region is cementing its position as South Africa’s rental powerhouse — offering scale, resilience, and opportunity for tenants and investors alike.
