Things Nobody Tells You Before Moving To Johannesburg

‘Jozi Maboneng’ AKA ‘The City Of Lights’. It’s also known, much like America’s New York, as ‘The City That Never Sleeps’. This is because while we doze off into the night, Johannesburg stays abuzz, making many people slightly anxious about living, partying, working, and enjoying this city. But we are Johannesburg Housing Company, and we believe we understand the heart of Jozi, and because of that, we will give you a detailed guide of what to expect if you are moving to the city of dreams, gold, and lights. 

 

First Things First, Safety 

 

Johannesburg is mostly feared because of the petty and organised crimes that take place in the area. However, in an effort to create a safe space for all, many entrepreneurs collaborated with the Johannesburg city government to make the city liveable. This means there is visible patrolling seen from government law enforcement as well as some private security companies hired by the entrepreneurs and residents of the city to patrol and keep watch. Safety in numbers is also a great way to navigate the Jozi streets, especially if you are going to a place you aren’t familiar with. The e-hailing system is pretty safe, with some of the companies offering pin/password protection to confirm with your driver before taking a ride. Taxis are generally preferred because taxi ranks are often full and make it hard for criminals to do anything to you. It is as safe as can be living in Johannesburg as long as you are aware of hotspots, take precautions and take advantage of patrolled routes. 

 

Housing Is Affordable 

 

Another fear of living in the city of gold is that it is too expensive. While it is a glamorous city that offers aesthetically pleasing, innovative, creative, and inspirational artworks, buildings, eating spots, and more, living here can be affordable with the right housing partner. Take Johannesburg Housing Company, for example, where we offer affordable apartments in Johannesburg to rent and enjoy the city without breaking your bank. From Hillbrow to Newtown, Jeppe and surrounding areas, you can have your bachelor, 1-bed, 2-bed, or 3-bedroom apartment and house all your loved ones and possessions. 

 

The Way To Your And Jozi’s Heart? We Know It! 

 

Food enthusiasts, show yourselves! If you are looking for a culinary experience that is out of this world, true to Mzansi’s flavours, and with nice portions, look no further. You can be spoiled with options from the likes of Kwa Mai Mai, based in Jeppestown, and Pata Pata in Maboneng. These places offer South African and African flavours. Speaking of Maboneng, you can also enjoy Ethiopian, Italian, and some American flavours for you to taste and enjoy. 

 

As you head up to the north towards Rosebank, you have an array of options with Rosebank Mall’s many restaurants, from Tashas to Proud Mary and Momo XO. Even before getting to Rosebank, Melville and Milpark, which are close to JHC’s Newtown buildings, have amazing restaurants and coffee shops for dinners, brunch, and so much more.  

 

If you are a fine-dine type of eater, Sandton is your friend. Here you can get a lot of restaurants offering amazing cocktails, wines, and other beverages, as well as menu options to die for. We’re talking sushi, steaks, tapas, seafood, and much more. Take some loved ones and explore the beauty that is Jozi’s plate of food options. 

 

Wanna Jive In Jozi? Us Too

 

Johannesburg’s nightlife is one that is talked about all over the world. Even international celebrities have spoken about how performing in this city has been so amazing. Clearly, we know what we’re doing here. So, where can you go to get this star-studded treatment and vibes? 

 

Braamfontein is one of the places where you can find live events at Leano Restaurant and Live Music, 94 Republic, Untitled Basement, and even The Playground Market. As you head to Newtown, you will find Capello, which offers food and a vibe, and as you take an Uber up to Maboneng, you will be spoiled to find Cosmopolitan as well as Shakers clubs. These spots usually have some of Mzansi’s finest artists offering their bodies of work to fans and patrons. 

 

Essential Living Made Easy 

 

If you are planning on living in Johannesburg with family or children, and need schools, clinics, and places to get essentials, then you will have lots of those around Jozi CBD. There are many schools around Braamfontein, Jeppestown, Newtown, and Hillbrow. Plus, we have buildings in all these suburbs, so from primary all the way to varsity, you will be sorted. 

 

Loving This So Far? Come Live Here, Then 

 

If you are considering moving to the city, make a spreadsheet of your essentials and needs, and create a rough sketch of how much it will cost you monthly. Once you have an idea, visit JHC and view a few places to rent, then contact one of our agents to start the application process so you can come live where you love with ease.