Westcliff, one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most exclusive suburbs, has officially become the most expensive suburb in Gauteng.
According to research by Lightstone, the average home in Westcliff sold for R9.8 million between January and October 2025. This makes it the province’s top high-end residential area.
While the Western Cape continues to dominate South Africa’s ultra-luxury property market, Gauteng is proving it can compete — and Westcliff is leading the way.
Gauteng’s Most Expensive Suburb
Lightstone analysed full-share property sales between R30,000 and R50 million registered during the first ten months of 2025.
Nationally, residential transaction values rose by 12.5% year-on-year to R276 billion, although the number of sales remained largely stable compared to 2024.
When looking at properties selling for more than R2 million:
Western Cape recorded the highest provincial average at R4.6 million
KwaZulu-Natal followed at just under R3.6 million
Gauteng came in close behind at R3.5 million
However, within Gauteng itself, Westcliff stood out clearly.
Top Gauteng Suburbs by Average Sale Price (Jan–Oct 2025)
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’s highest recorded sale during the period reached R30 million, with only Steyn City exceeding that in Gauteng at R33 million.
Across South Africa, Bantry Bay in Cape Town saw the highest national sale at R48 million.
A Suburb With Deep History
Westcliff is not a new luxury destination. It has been an elite residential area since the late 1800s.
Located in Johannesburg, the suburb attracted wealthy mining magnates and influential business leaders as early as 1892.
Its heritage is visible in its architecture. Several homes were designed by renowned architect Herbert Baker, known for shaping many of South Africa’s historic buildings.
One of the suburb’s landmarks is:
Glenshiel House
Built in 1910, Glenshiel House is now a national monument. It serves as the headquarters of the Order of St John and is also used as a function venue.
What Makes Westcliff So Expensive?
Several factors explain Westcliff’s premium property prices:
1. Prime Location
Westcliff sits on a ridge with panoramic views across northern Johannesburg and towards the Magaliesberg mountains.
2. Large Stands and Privacy
Homes are built on spacious plots with established gardens. Wide streets and low-density zoning provide privacy — a major attraction for high-net-worth buyers.
3. Green Environment
The suburb borders the Johannesburg Zoo, adding to its leafy, tranquil atmosphere.
4. Proximity to Business Hubs
Westcliff is close to Rosebank and Sandton, offering easy access to corporate offices, shopping centres, and fine dining.
Major roads like Jan Smuts Avenue and Barry Hertzog Avenue connect residents to the Johannesburg CBD and Randburg.
OR Tambo International Airport is approximately 33 km away, with Gautrain access available from nearby Rosebank.
Strong Social Infrastructure
Westcliff also benefits from excellent nearby schools and healthcare facilities.
Popular schools include:
Westcliff Primary
St Katherine’s
Parkview Primary
The Ridge Preparatory School
High school options such as St John’s College, King Edward VII School, and Roedean are within easy reach.
Medical facilities include Milpark Hospital and Park Lane Clinic, with additional private services in Sandton and Melrose.
Competing on the National Stage
Although Westcliff’s average price of R9.8 million is far below the Western Cape’s top suburb Llandudno (R23.7 million average), it still outperforms many prime locations across South Africa.
For Gauteng buyers seeking prestige, history, privacy, and proximity to economic centres, Westcliff remains the ultimate address.
As transaction values continue to rise, this historic Johannesburg suburb is cementing its position as Gauteng’s most exclusive residential enclave.
