High demand in the Johannesburg gem that ticks all the boxes for family buyers

In the heart of Johannesburg lies a suburb that feels worlds away from the bustle of city life. With its tree-lined streets, wonderful family homes, and a vibrant, community-oriented lifestyle, Forest Town is fast becoming one of the most sought-after residential enclaves for family buyers with rising sale prices reflecting its growing popularity.

Nestled at the base of Parktown Ridge and flanked by two of Johannesburg’s most prestigious suburbs, Forest Town combines old-world charm with modern convenience. The suburb’s appeal lies not only in its location but also in its unique ability to maintain a strong sense of community while offering access to top schools, hospitals, and commercial hubs.

“Forest Town has managed to maintain its charming atmosphere and still has, by today’s standards, spacious homes and quiet, well-maintained streets,” says Beverley Gurwicz, Area Specialist for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.

“It’s one of the rare suburbs in Joburg where residents are surrounded by parks and open green spaces that they can safely enjoy.”

She says that on any given day, Forest Town residents can be seen walking, running, pushing prams or cycling through the suburb with their dogs and children.

“The area buzzes with activity as neighbours gather at quaint local cafés for coffee, breakfast and meetings, reinforcing the suburb’s strong sense of connection and walkability.”

Forest Town’s property landscape is dominated by freehold homes, which make up 88% of the housing stock and these character homes are particularly attractive to families looking for space, safety and a strong community spirit. An additional appeal factor is the fact that many of the properties have income-generating cottages and flatlets.

Gurwicz notes that the suburb has become especially popular with professionals, particularly academics and medical staff, thanks to its proximity to the universities and nearby hospitals and clinics. A growing number of creatives also call the area home, drawn by its tranquillity and lifestyle offerings.

Recent sales data supports the suburb’s growing appeal to younger families. Over the past year, 61.5% of buyers were aged between 36 and 49, while 69% of recent sellers were over 50 - a clear sign of generational turnover. Gurwicz reports a surge in enquiries from buyers across the board and a notable uptick in activity, having personally brokered several sales recently between R6 million and R7.5 million.

The average house price in Forest Town during the 12 months to 28 February was R 4 642 857, with the average price climbing to R 4 842 857 in the last quarter of that period.

“One of the key drawcards is that there is a wide range of options to suit all budgets, from around R3.5m at the entry level, all the way up to in excess of R10m at the present time,” says Gurwicz.

She adds that the rental market is just as dynamic. Well-priced homes are snapped up quickly, with strong demand seen at the beginning of the year and a persistent shortage of available stock.

Gurwicz says that, with security being a top priority for Forest Town residents, the suburb benefits from the Forest Town Secure Village (FTSV), an initiative supported by an efficient private security company as well as the robust Forest Town Residents Association. The result is a consistently low crime rate - one of the many reasons families are drawn to the area.

Another standout feature of Forest Town is its highly engaged community. The Forest Town Ratepayers Association plays a key role in keeping residents informed through quarterly newsletters covering everything from crime stats to local events.

And a testament to the suburb’s community spirit is a resident-driven initiative that saw locals band together to establish a park for communal use and establish a weekly children's club for neighbourhood kids.

“Forest Town is not just a place to live - it’s a way of life,” says Gurwicz. “There’s a real sense of belonging here. Families connect through weekly kids’ clubs, social gatherings, and shared spaces. It’s a rare find in a big city.”

She adds that the suburb’s growing demand is underpinned by its strategic location.

“Forest Town is within walking distance to Wits University and Milpark Hospital and offers residents quick access to Sandton and Rosebank. It’s also in close proximity to top schools including St John's College and Roedean and Afrikaans schools, Jan Celliers and Helmekaar Kollege.

“The suburb is also home to the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre, the Inside Out Centre for the Arts and The Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation, Johannesburg War Museum and the zoo are also nearby.”

In a market where location, lifestyle, and long-term value matter more than ever, Forest Town stands out as a family-friendly enclave that truly ticks all the boxes.