Everyone loves Pretoria thanks to its central location, natural features, and rich heritage. Having excellent weather year-round doesn’t hurt either. But in such a sprawling and diverse city, it can be challenging to find the right place to call home.
Pretoria is the best of both worlds. Gorgeous parks and gardens, peaceful suburbs and friendly residents, but career-climbers and entrepreneurs won't be left out.
As one of South Africa's three capital cities, the Jacaranda city has a thriving private sector. It offers a wealth of business and employment opportunities. The city also features top-rated universities, historical sites, art galleries and other popular landmarks.
With all this, Pretoria still boasts a lower cost of living than other major cities.
So, if you're trying to stay close to family, or the city that you love– here is our selection of the best and safest suburbs in Pretoria. There is something for every budget and lifestyle.
Looking for retirement options? Read our guide to the best places to retire in South Africa.
From amazing hiking routes to art and culture hubs, here are the best places to call home in Jacaranda City.
Waterkloof has nailed luxury living. It’s one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Pretoria. Even the Jacaranda tree-lined streets got their names from British royalty. It's also private and safe, highlighted by the diplomatic residencies in the suburb.
Waterkloof residents enjoy pristine streets and spacious modern homes. The town offers incredible city views minus the chaos. Expats moving to Pretoria will feel right at home.
And, that’s also why the suburb is home to diverse local and international residents.
Perfect for luxury lifestyles, nature lovers, expats, retirees, working professionals.
Luxury living
Privacy and advanced security
Country clubs and nature reserves
Groenkloof Nature Reserve
Waterkloof Golf Club
Pretoria Country Club
Prioritising affordability doesn’t mean you can’t live in style and comfort. Faerie Glen proves this. This charming suburb boasts excellent schools nearby and various recreational activities and parks like the Faerie Glen Nature Reserve. It's an instant win for families.
Despite its proximity to the city, Faerie Glen still feels like a peaceful forest community. The friendly suburb is walkable, with many nearby shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Families are spoilt for choice when it comes to recreational and community activities.
As the biggest suburb in Pretoria East, Faerie Glen is an in-demand area to move to. However, there are a few smaller areas within the neighbourhood that stand out for a smaller community vibe– like the Faerie Glen Nature Village, which will be access controlled.
Perfect for families, hobbyists, working professionals, nature lovers.
Sports and recreational activities
Great schools
Many nearby hospitals
Faerie Glen Nature Reserve
Sammy Marks Museum
Atterbury Theatre
Scuba Crew
Every day feels like a holiday when you live in Queenswood. With historic and cultural attractions and popular spots surrounding the area.
On one day, you could get lost in the natural beauty of the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens. The next, channel your inner historian at the National Cultural History Museum which is a quick 20 minute drive away. It’s also easy to travel to from the city and close to the University of Pretoria.
Queenswood delivers comfortable, convenient living. Not sure what to do in your spare time? The choices are limitless. Explore nearby markets, restaurants, theatres, shopping centres, or any of the many health and wellness facilities.
Perfect for adventurers and explorers, history and culture lovers, cyclists, nature lovers.
Nearby attractions and activities
Area rich in arts and culture
Walking and cycling suburb
Pretoria National Botanical Gardens
Pierneef Theatre
Church Square
Magnolia Craft Market
Kruger House Museum
National Cultural History Museum
Can’t decide between East or North Pretoria? Land right in the middle with Waverley. Waverley is a well-developed modern suburb. Its excellent schools and green spaces make it an ideal location for families.
Professionals can access the N1 and N4 in minutes. But you won’t always have to travel far. Shopping centres, restaurants, and more are only a few kilometres away.
But the prime location is what makes Waverley special. The suburb sits at the foot of the breathtaking Magaliesberg Mountains. It manages to be an affordable option even with the winning backdrop.
Perfect for families, professionals, nature lovers, budget-conscious renters and buyers.
Affordability
Good schools
Family-friendly suburb
Wonderboom Nature Reserve
Melrose House
Transvaal Museum
It might be last on the list, but Menlo Park takes the cup for the most development. The city-like suburb has seen immense growth and expansion in the past decade.
It features a trendy theatre and some of the best restaurants and nightlife in Pretoria. Are you an artist hungry for inspiration? Menlo was the home of the famous South African artist, Walter Battiss.
Wellness is a core part of Menlo culture. Activities include tennis, wrestling, yoga, athletics, karate, and now, Padel. There are many indoor training and wellness centres available.
Menlo is a thriving upmarket suburb located close to major business districts. Residential properties are always in development with quality homes for different budgets.
Perfect for young professionals, young families, students, social butterflies.
Ongoing development
Nightlife and shopping venues
Modern amenities and exciting activities
Menlyn Park Shopping Centre
Greenlyn Village Shopping Centre
Brooklyn Theatre
Hazel Food Market
Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary
Any of these suburbs will be a fantastic place to start afresh, settle down, or retire. When you’re ready to move to Pretoria, Wise Move is here to make it stress-free with quick and affordable moving quotes.
Wise Move is South Africa’s leading moving service, helping thousands of customers with home moves, furniture removals, car and motorcycle transport, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services in just a few simple steps. Our focus has always been on making moving as simple and effortless as possible for our customers.
