Property

Small suburb in South Africa’s richest city where the average house sells for R9.8 million

Kirsten Minnaar • 24 February 2026

Westcliff, an affluent suburb in Johannesburg, is recording the highest average property prices in Gauteng at about R9.8 million, making it the province’s most expensive suburb.

While the Western Cape may still be selling South Africa’s most expensive luxury homes, some Gauteng suburbs are cementing themselves as prime high-end destinations.

Lightstone analysed sales between R30,000 and R50 million for properties registered between January and October 2025.

It only analysed those where the full share was purchased, not where a house was owned by two partners and one partner sold a share to the other.

It revealed that, during this period, residential property transaction values in South Africa rose by 12.5% year-on-year to R276 billion. The number of sales remained largely unchanged from the corresponding period in 2024.

Lightstone looked at the average price for properties selling for more than R2 million. The Western Cape recorded the highest price, at R4.6 million. KwaZulu-Natal came in second at just under R3.6 million, marginally ahead of Gauteng at R3.5 million.

While the big three provinces – Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal – accounted for 78% of all sales, Gauteng remained South Africa’s top province in terms of transaction numbers.

In Gauteng, Westcliff stood out as the most expensive suburb, with an average property sale price of R9.8 million.

This is significantly lower than the Western Cape’s most expensive suburbs – such as Llandudno, which had an average sale price of R23.7 million.

However, Westcliff still outperformed other prime suburbs across the country, such as Dunkeld, St Francis Bay and Zimbali.

Westcliff also saw an impressive maximum price paid of R30 million. In Gauteng, only Steyn City saw a higher sales price at R33 million.

Across South Africa, Bantry Bay in Cape Town recorded the highest sale price in the first 10 months of 2025 at R48 million.

Simbithi in Salt Rock led the way in KwaZulu-Natal at R32.5 million. Of the other six provinces, St Francis Bay in the Eastern Cape recorded the country’s second-best price of R37 million.

The table below shows the Gauteng suburbs with the highest average sales prices from January to October 2025, according to Lightstone.

Suburb	Sales	Average Price	Maximum paid
Westcliff	17	R9.79 million	R30 million
Dunkeld	16	R9.22 million	R18 million
Steyn City	26	R7.86 million	R33 million
Inanda	17	R6.92 million	R27 million
Blair Atholl	20	R6.73 million	R22.9 million

Westcliff

Westcliff is one of the oldest and most established suburbs in Johannesburg, with a history dating back to the late 19th century.

Since around 1892, the area has attracted wealthy residents, including mining magnates and prominent business figures, shaping its reputation as an exclusive residential enclave.

The suburb’s heritage character is reflected in its architecture, which includes a number of historic homes, some designed by renowned architect Herbert Baker.

One of the most notable properties is Glenshiel House, built in 1910, which is now a national monument and serves as the headquarters of the Order of St John as well as a function venue.

Situated on a prominent ridge, Westcliff is characterised by large, luxury homes set on spacious stands with established gardens.

Many properties offer panoramic views across northern Johannesburg and towards the Magaliesberg. The suburb is also adjacent to the Johannesburg Zoo, contributing to its green, tranquil environment.

Wide streets, mature trees, and low residential density further reinforce its appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking privacy and security.

Westcliff is well-positioned near key amenities and business hubs. It is close to Rosebank and Sandton, providing convenient access to commercial centres, shopping, and dining.

Major routes such as Jan Smuts Avenue and Barry Hertzog Avenue connect the suburb to the Johannesburg CBD, Randburg, and surrounding areas.

OR Tambo International Airport is approximately 33 kilometres away, with Gautrain access available from nearby Rosebank.

The area is also supported by a strong social infrastructure. Popular nearby schools include Westcliff Primary, St Katherine’s, Parkview Primary, and The Ridge Preparatory School.

High school options such as St John’s College, King Edward VII School, and Roedean are within easy reach.

Healthcare facilities, including Milpark Hospital and Park Lane Clinic, are located nearby, with additional private medical services available in Sandton and Melrose.