The wealthiest city in Africa is home to the nation’s “richest square mile” where stunning homes go for over £2million.
Johannesburg, the capital of South Africa’s Gauteng provice, is often called the “City of Gold” with over 12,000 millionaires, 25 centi-millionaires (worth £100 million or more), and two billionaires, according to the Henley & Partners Africa Wealth Report.
But one part of the sprawling metropolis is particularly beloved among wealthy and powerful figures, and is where many of Africa’s biggest banks and firms are headquartered, as per Mansion Global.
Sandton, located in the north of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality was once an independent municipality, and was named using a portmanteau of its two suburbs, Sandown and Bryanston, as per the outlet.
Though its perhaps best known as a business district, Sandton is also home to sprawling mansions, shopping malls catering to high-net-worth customers and posh golf clubs.
Sandton’s bustling business district is often referred to as Africa’s richest square mile, but it also boasts an exclusive residential neighborhood that caters to every taste.
Craig Hutchison, CEO of luxury property firm Engel & Völkers South Africa previously described the area as having a “vibrant, fast-paced metropolitan lifestyle with all the amenities on offer, together with the subtropical climate, which make it a very attractive option to high-net-worth individuals”.
But though houses aren’t cheap, with one of its most grandest properties on the market for over £2.3million, others offer huge grounds and imposing architecture for well below what you’d have to pay in some of Europe’s most sought after neighbourhoods.
For example, a sprawling gated property currently listed on Rightmove with six bedrooms, a swimming pool and a sumptuous river view is priced at £873,469, with various other multi-bedroom pads going for well below 500,000.
Known locally as Jo’burg or Joburg, Johnesburg is also known for its rich history and culture.
Visitors can explore important landmarks like the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, as well as the vibrant streets of Soweto, which tell the story of South Africa’s difficult but inspiring past.
The city is home to over eight million people and is one of the largest world with a booming economy driven by flourishing industries like finance, IT, and manufacturing.
But it’s not without its challenges, and faces various issues including inequality, crime, and housing shortages, but urban renewal projects to improve the experience for residents.
It’s also a major travel hub, with its OR Tambo International Airport staking a claim as Africa’s busiest airport, connects millions of people to destinations across the globe per year.
