Johannesburg, also known as Joburg or Jozi, is the largest city in Gauteng province in South Africa. With a population of approximately 5.7 million people, it is the second-largest city in Africa after Cairo, Egypt. Johannesburg is the economic hub of South Africa and is home to many major corporations and banks. The city is also a popular tourist destination, known for its rich history, culture, and wildlife.
Johannesburg is divided into several areas and suburbs, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. Some of the nicest areas and suburbs in Johannesburg include Sandton, Rosebank, Melrose, Parktown, and Hyde Park.
Sandton is one of the wealthiest areas in Johannesburg and is often referred to as the "richest square mile in Africa." The area is home to many high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels, as well as the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Housing prices in Sandton can be quite expensive, with the average home costing around ZAR 4.5 million. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Gautrain, which connects Sandton to other areas of Johannesburg. Sandton is considered to be relatively safe, with a low crime rate, and is home to many landmarks, including the Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Mall. Public persons known to live in Sandton include billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe and former South African President Thabo Mbeki.
Rosebank is another upscale area of Johannesburg, known for its trendy shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The area is home to the Rosebank Mall, which is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Johannesburg. Housing prices in Rosebank are also quite high, with the average home costing around ZAR 3.5 million. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Gautrain. Rosebank is considered to be relatively safe, with a low crime rate, and is home to many landmarks, including the African Craft Market and the Rosebank Art and Craft Market. Public persons known to live in Rosebank include billionaire businessman Johann Rupert and former South African cricket captain Graeme Smith.
Melrose is a trendy suburb of Johannesburg, known for its beautiful parks, restaurants, and cafes. The area is home to the Melrose Arch, which is a popular shopping and entertainment destination. Housing prices in Melrose can be quite expensive, with the average home costing around ZAR 5 million. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Gautrain. Melrose is considered to be relatively safe, with a low crime rate, and is home to many landmarks, including the James and Ethel Gray Park and the Melrose Bird Sanctuary. Public persons known to live in Melrose include former South African rugby captain Francois Pienaar and television personality Bonang Matheba.
Parktown is a historic suburb of Johannesburg, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks. The area is home to many museums, including the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre and the Adler Museum of Medicine. Housing prices in Parktown can be quite expensive, with the average home costing around ZAR 4 million. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Gautrain. Parktown is considered to be relatively safe, with a low crime rate, and is home to many landmarks, including the Parktown Boys' High School and the Johannesburg Zoo. Public persons known to live in Parktown include former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe and former Miss South Africa Bokang Montjane-Tshabalala.