Some 2.5-million Pretoria residents enjoy one of the warmest city climates in the country, averaging 12 degrees in winter to the mid-30s in summer. As the executive capital of South Africa it has a large number of historical landmarks and government buildings but scattered among those is a vibrant popular culture. It’s a culture that blends history – such as museums and galleries – with a vibey café society, yet still caters to family lifestyles.
It is also an academic city hosting the University of Pretoria, Tshwane University of Technology, University of South Africa (Unisa), the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the National Research Foundation, the South African Bureau of Standards, and the Human Research Council. This translates into the need for a large number of apartments and student accommodation, and the metropolitan city does not disappoint, and best of all, it is considered one of the most affordable in which to live, and work.
Students and single professionals
The city centre has a prolific variety of apartments that are perfect for students, couples and single professionals. Many are designed specifically for their needs such as offering an in-house laundromat, gym and swimming pool. Others include technology like biometric access, Wi-Fi and on-demand television channels. It is sometimes a challenge to find accommodation within walking distance of the universities but the public transport system works well.
Furnished or unfurnished, many renters opt to share 2-bedroom apartments so they can take advantage of an apartment with a view, or with more upmarket fittings and appliances. Landlords tend to take good care of their properties given some rife competition.
Upscale living
If you can afford it, the upper end of the market offers apartments within security-monitored buildings or estates, with add-on benefits like a reception, gym, swimming pool, even in-house dining and conference facilities. The choice is excellent be that a penthouse in the middle of town, or a well-maintained building within an estate. Looking for views? You’ll find those near the Union Buildings. Wanting a calmer environment? Move out to the outskirts of town where a number of estates offer apartments within wildlife or golf estates.
Pricing
For around R6000 a month, you can opt for a furnished one-bed beautifully appointed apartment. A smaller budget, say R4000, will provide you with a studio. Maximise the budget and you can aim for a R36 000-a-month two-bed, but the views and facilities will be worth it. Renting is also a great option while you seek your permanent house in Pretoria, which is proving very popular for first-time home buyers.
Things to do
From weekend markets and festivals offering crafts, food and entertainment, cafés and bistros, and fine dining experiences, Pretoria has something for everyone, including children. The zoo is popular, as are the innumerable green spaces and parks for picnics and walks. Move from the calmness of the day into a vibey nightlife, where people spill onto the streets in social gatherings. Safety, parking and crime are considered serious issues in the city but this is true of most cities in South Africa.
Why Pretoria and not Johannesburg?
Many business people prefer to live in Pretoria, traveling to their jobs in Johannesburg, for the lower cost of living. It claims to have a better air quality, is not as crowded even from a property perspective, and generally speaking, is quieter. It has good hospitals, excellent schools, and retail that ranges from affordable to high-end.
And the purple! From mid September to end November, the entire city is awash with the blossoms of Jacaranda trees. The city claims to have over 70 000 of them, which has given rise to it being known as the Jacaranda City. A visit to the Klapperkop Nature Reserve will allow you to view this mass blossoming in full regalia, and say some, it you are studying and blossoms fall on your head, you’ll successfully pass your exams. If they bloom and you haven’t studied, it might be too late to start!
