Urbanisation has been a key watchword for the past two decades and, whilst cities are still attracting droves of job seekers and young professionals looking to establish themselves, it’s much less of a one-way street since the pandemic and many of those who can, are opting to live in the suburbs.
“The global shift toward remote and hybrid work models has redefined how and where people live, and this transformation has sparked a suburban renaissance, as workers seek homes that offer more space, affordability and a better quality of life,” says Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Suburbs and smaller towns, once overlooked by those tethered to urban offices, are now experiencing a surge in popularity which has profound implications for residential real estate, urban planning, and community development.”
Remote work was already gaining traction before the COVID-19 pandemic, but the global health crisis accelerated its adoption and companies across industries have embraced flexible work arrangements, enabling employees to work from virtually anywhere.
“In South Africa, where traffic congestion and long commutes are daily challenges in the major cities, the ability to work remotely has been a game-changer.
“Employees no longer need to live within close proximity to urban centres, allowing them to prioritise lifestyle factors such as space, safety, and access to nature and, as a result, suburban areas and smaller towns have become highly desirable, marking a far-reaching switch in residential preferences.”
Key Drivers of Suburban Migration
According to Geffen, there are several factors that are driving the shift toward suburban living.
“For most people the two primary factors are space and affordability. Suburbs and smaller towns often offer larger homes and plots of land at lower prices compared to urban areas which is particularly appealing to families and those who value outdoor spaces and dedicated home offices.
“Also key drivers are lifestyle amenities and access to nature and we are seeing that new development in suburbs is increasingly designed with a focus on community living, offering amenities such as parks, schools, gyms, and shopping centres.
“And, after the pandemic, access to green spaces is much more important to many people and proximity to green spaces, hiking trails, and beaches adds to the allure of suburban and semi-rural living, particularly for those seeking a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
“Last, but certainly not least is safety and security. Crime in urban areas is higher than in many suburban and semi-rural areas and this concern is clearly evidenced by the spike in popularity of gated communities and secure estates, even in more rural places.”
Emerging Suburban Hotspots
Numerous suburban areas in around the country are thriving as a result of this migration trend and Geffen suggests that those looking to invest should be considering in the following areas:
“The real estate sector has responded to these changing preferences by adapting residential developments to cater to the shifting needs of buyers in general and remote workers specifically,” says Geffen.
“Developers are increasingly incorporating home offices or multipurpose rooms into residential designs and these spaces are equipped with high-speed internet connectivity and layouts conducive to productivity.
“Community-oriented living is also factored into estate and suburban planning and many new suburban developments prioritise a sense of community, with shared spaces such as coworking hubs, recreational facilities, and communal gardens, all of which foster social interaction while supporting work-life balance.
“Smart home features, such as automated lighting, temperature control, and advanced security systems, are also becoming more standard in new developments, especially in higher end properties. These technologies enhance convenience and efficiency for remote workers.
“We’re also seeing more eco-conscious development that prioritises sustainability and energy-efficient designs appeal to buyers seeking environmentally friendly options.”
While the suburban renaissance offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges that need to be addressed and Geffen notes the following as the most common obstacles:
“Opportunities abound for developers, investors, and local governments to capitalise on the suburban shift and public-private partnerships (PPPs) can play a significant role in financing and delivering essential infrastructure and services.
“And, as the trend continues to gain momentum, suburban and semi-rural areas will play an increasingly important role in the country’s economic and social fabric. For the real estate industry, this shift represents an opportunity to innovate and create developments that meet the evolving needs of South Africans.”