Once seen as a quiet suburb on the edges of the city, Medavakkam has steadily grown into one of South Chennai’s most sought-after residential destinations. Its biggest strength lies in its strategic location. Positioned between two of Chennai’s most important arterial roads, Old Mahabalipuram Road and Grand Southern Trunk Road, Medavakkam offers residents easy access to both the city’s IT corridor and traditional commercial zones.
For working professionals, especially those employed in IT and ITeS hubs such as Sholinganallur and Perungudi, daily commuting becomes far more manageable. At the same time, families benefit from proximity to educational institutions, hospitals, shopping centres and recreational spaces. This balance between work convenience and liveability is what is increasingly drawing homebuyers to the area.
Connectivity is expected to improve further with the upcoming Chennai Metro Rail Phase 2. While there is currently no metro station in the immediate vicinity, the extension is set to significantly cut travel time to key parts of the city. This infrastructure upgrade is widely seen as a major trigger for the next phase of property value growth in Medavakkam.
Property prices and rentals on the rise
Medavakkam’s residential real estate story has changed rapidly over the past five years. Average property prices in the locality are currently around Rs. 7,300 per sq. ft, a sharp jump from the sub-Rs 5,000 levels seen before 2020. What was once considered an affordable suburb is now firmly positioned as a mid-range residential market in South Chennai.
Rental values have also moved up in step with capital prices. Monthly rents typically range between Rs. 12,000 and Rs. 50,000, depending on the size, age and location of the apartment. Close proximity to the OMR IT corridor and the steady addition of social infrastructure have kept tenant demand healthy between 2019 and 2025.
Everyday infrastructure and social amenities
One of Medavakkam’s biggest advantages is the availability of everyday infrastructure within close reach. The locality is home to reputed schools such as St. John’s School and Velammal School, making it convenient for families with children. Healthcare is well covered with major hospitals like Gleneagles Global Health City and Kamakshi Memorial Hospital located nearby.
For recreation and leisure, residents have access to several neighbourhood parks, along with the scenic Medavakkam Lake, which adds to the green cover of the area. Street lighting is adequate across most stretches, contributing to a general feeling of safety. Crime levels in the locality are considered relatively low compared to many fast-urbanising suburbs.
Air quality, water and daily challenges
From an environmental perspective, Medavakkam fares reasonably well. The Air Quality Index usually stays in the moderate range of 50 to 80, with noticeable improvement during the monsoon months when rainfall helps settle dust and pollutants.
Water availability, however, remains a periodic concern. Like many parts of South Chennai, Medavakkam faces instances of water shortage during peak summer months. Another persistent issue is waterlogging during heavy rains, particularly on interior roads, which can disrupt daily movement. Traffic congestion during weekday peak hours is also common, given the increasing population and dependence on road-based commuting.
Cleanliness levels in the locality are generally acceptable, though waste management still requires more consistent civic attention as the area continues to densify.
The lifestyle draw
What truly works in Medavakkam’s favour is its ability to offer a relatively calm residential environment while staying closely connected to major employment hubs. For families, the presence of schools, hospitals, parks and local shopping areas within short distances reduces daily stress. For professionals, especially those working along OMR, the locality offers a shorter and more predictable commute compared to deeper parts of the city.
This dual appeal has helped Medavakkam attract both end-users and long-term investors. The profile of buyers has also diversified, from first-time homeowners seeking mid-sized apartments to upgraders looking for newer gated communities with modern amenities.
The road ahead
With the Phase 2 metro extension on the horizon and continuous improvement in road infrastructure, Medavakkam is expected to remain on Chennai’s residential growth map for years to come. While civic challenges such as water provisioning, drainage and traffic management will need sustained attention, the fundamentals of location, connectivity and social infrastructure remain strong.
For those planning to buy or rent a home in South Chennai, Medavakkam today represents a blend of accessibility, rising property values and improving lifestyle infrastructure. It is no longer just an affordable suburb. It is fast becoming a well-established residential address with long-term potential.
