Eight best neighbourhoods for young professionals in Durban

If you’re looking to start a new chapter, move out of your city or move closer to work, choosing the right neighbourhood to live in can be overwhelming. Here is a look at eight of the best neighbourhoods for young professionals in and around Durban.

From the far North in Ballito to the South in Amanzimtoti, each area will depend on where you work and the kind of lifestyle you are looking for.

UMHLANGA RIDGE

Umhlanga Ridge is an attractive option for young professionals who are looking for contemporary apartments, shopping centres, restaurants and proximity to major business hubs. Umhlanga Ride is located near Gateway Theatre of Shopping and the N2. This also makes the commute easier if you work in the North of Durban.

However, Umhlanga is an expensive area with rent reportedly starting at around R9500. There are other areas within and around Umhlanga that you could also look at.

Take a look at seven neighbourhoods in Cape Town to rent for young professionals here.

BALLITO

Located along KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, Ballito is popular with professionals seeking a coastal lifestyle, modern apartment complexes and access to beaches, restaurants and shopping facilities. Ballito is further North than Umhlanga and will therefore involved a lenghty commute to work.

This would be the ideal location if you work in the North or if you are a remote worker.

DURBAN NORTH

Not too far away from Umhlanga is Durban North. Durban North offers a balance between residential tranquillity and ease of access to Durban northern business and retail districts. It is worth considering for professionals who want more space, quieter surroundings and access to major routes connecting them to Umhlanga and central Durban.

Starting rent in Durban North is reportedly between R6000 – R7000.

MORNINGSIDE

A more central option is Morningside. Morningside is ideal for young professionals who want a lively social life without living directly on the beachfront. The popular Florida Road precinct which features restaurants, cafés and bars is just a stone throw away. The surrounding residential streets offer apartments and character-filled homes.

Starting rent in Morningside is much lower than Umhlanga and Durban North, cited as starting from R4250 for a bachelor flat.

MUSGRAVE

Musgrave is also a more central option and not too far away from Morningside. So, you could enjoy both the lively social scene and living near the Durban CBD. This works well if you will be working in or around the CBD.

Starting rent reportedly also starts at around R5000 a month.

POINT WATERFRONT

Point Waterfront appeals to professionals who enjoy being close to the ocean, the promenade and leisure attractions such as uShaka Marine World. Its apartment developments and waterfront setting offer a different lifestyle from Durban’s traditional inland suburbs. Point Waterfront offers waterfront views, apartment living and access to coastal attraction.

Rent is a bit more expensive in this area, reportedly starting at around R8000.

ESSENWOOD

Essenwood is worth considering if you prefer a leafy, residential environment while remaining within reach of Musgrave and the wider Berea area. The suburb has a mix of apartments and houses, making it an option for professionals looking for a more settled atmosphere.

Starting prices for rent are reportedly around R5500.

AMANZIMTOTI

Amanzimtoti is located South of Durban. This is the perfect option if you’re looking for scenic beach views and a quiet area to live in. Amanzimtoti is a “sleepy town” with convenience. There are several malls, restarunts, cafes and many apartments are located right on the beach.

However, Amanzimtoti is further south so there is quite a commute. This would be an ideal location if you are working in the South or remotely. The views are definitely worth it.

Rent prices start at around R6000.

COMPARING COST OF LIVING

To compare Umhlanga Ridge, Ballito, Durban North, Morningside, Musgrave, Point Waterfront, Essenwood and Amanzimtoti, you would need to look monthly cost of living for a young professional renting alone in each area. The living expenses will include rent, fuel, groceries, utilities and other living expenses, instead of the rent as a standalone expense.

A cheaper apartment further away from work can easily cost you more due to the fuel price. This would also take away your time as your commute is longer.

TIPS FOR SETTLING IN TO YOUR MOVE IN DURBAN

• Choose your neighbourhood carefully – Before signing a lease, consider how close you will be to work, supermarkets, gyms, restaurants and public transport. Umhlanga Ridge may suit someone working in the northern business districts, while Morningside, Musgrave and Essenwood offer access to central Durban. Ballito and Amanzimtoti may be better suited to people working locally or remotely.
• Set a realistic monthly budget – Moving involves more than paying rent. Remember to budget for your deposit, moving costs, electricity, water, internet, groceries, fuel, car insurance and unexpected expenses. Also, try to build an emergency fund. The rule of thumb is to have three times your salary in an emergency fund.
• Learn your commute and transport options – Spend time learning the main routes to work and identifying alternative roads for busy periods. Durban’s N2, N3 and M13 routes can become congested during peak commuting times. If you do not plan on driving to work research transport options near your home and workplace before choosing a property.
• Take in the beauty of Durban – One of the biggest attractions of living in Durban is its coastal lifestyle. Make time to explore the promenade, discover local restaurants and enjoy outdoor activities on weekends.
• Prepare yourself for the humidity in Durban – Durban’s warm, humid climate can require a little adjustment, especially if you’re moving from Johannesburg or Cape Town. Keep rooms ventilated, make sure clothes and bedding are dry before storing them, and pay attention to mould and moisture in your home. Get familiar with your neighbourhood’s safety precautions, too, and use well-lit routes and reputable transport services when travelling at night.

Is there anything else you’d like to know about moving? Drop your questions in the comments section below…