If you’ve heard of ‘semigration’, you might be aware of how it has impacted the SA property market in recent years. Seeff explores semigration hotspots within South Africa.
Defining semigration in the South African context
Generally speaking, semigration refers to the action of moving from one part of a country to another. It happens a lot in South Africa, where people move from one province to another in search of something new or because of the unique opportunities available in another province.
Why are people semigrating?
People relocate for many different reasons, whether they go overseas or simply move from one province to the other within SA.
As you might imagine, people’s reasons for moving may vary from the changing job market to property-related preferences, affordability, and general quality of life.
For example, one family might move across the country due to better work opportunities in their profession. Another example might be that there are greater growth opportunities in major cities rather than in a more rural, country community or small isolated town.
People will often move because they may find that a different region provides better value for money or simply to be closer to the hustle and bustle of a beautiful city like Cape Town or the Northern KZN coast.
Whatever the reasons might be, we have seen an increase in semigration over recent years. Below is a list of some of the main spots people might relocate to.
#1 Cape Town, or the Mother City, is at the top of the list
The most popular city for relocation from within the country is Cape Town. Most semigrants come from Gauteng and from KwaZulu-Natal.
Cape Town is well known for its laidback lifestyle, efficient municipalities, and world-class amenities - the Mother City’s popularity comes as no surprise.
As of 2019, the city had been voted the best city in the world for seven consecutive years at the Telegraph Travel Awards.
#2 The upmarket Northern Coast of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)
Moving on to warmer waters, the Northern parts of KZN are also in high demand for semigration.
It’s a less populated coastal region, so property here can get pricey. Luxury areas such as Zimbali Estate and the Dolphin Coast’s Ballito offer property owners a balance between seclusion and access to all the activities and amenities you can think of.
#3 Plettenberg Bay, George and Knysna - unique, coastal towns along SA’s garden route
Between the Eastern Cape and Western Cape lies a stretch of coastal areas known as the Garden Route. The towns of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna fall along this stretch and are also experiencing a wave of semigration.
Loaded with tourism opportunities, a lot of the property owners here have followed commercial interests, along with a property purchase that offers a quieter lifestyle.
#4 Gauteng’s newly developed areas such as the West Rand, Gauteng East, the greater Fourways area and Midrand
Newly developed spots in the Gauteng region are a magnet to professionals and families alike. These kinds of areas offer massive potential for business enthusiasts and families as the local economies in and around them are booming.
Overall, South Africa is a beautiful country with many opportunities for growth and property investments. A move to the right place can set you up for life, especially if you play your property cards right.
Call us today to get in touch with an agent in the area you may be considering moving to.