A new trend of ‘desemigration’ is being observed in the Western Cape in 2025. This goes against the steady stream of Gautengers ‘semigrating’ South ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. In the intervening years, the Western Cape government has had to pump millions into expanding infrastructure and extra housing to accommodate the in flux.
However, traffic on ill-equipped roads has soared, likewise housing and rental prices, as locals take advantage of the migration. Nevertheless, because of this oversupply and rapid increase in cost of living, a new desemigration tendency is seeing a reverse flow of people returning back to Gauteng, reports Daily Investor.
DESEMIGRATION IN FULL FLOW
As a result, property firms in Gauteng say the debilitating damper on its market appears to be shifting. Cape Town and its surrounds are undoubtedly the preferred destination for those seeking a lifestyle change and better governance. However, those trying to enter that market now feel they’re being taken advantage of. And Gauteng property professionals have welcomed this sudden shift in sentiment with open arms
Property firms report fielding a growing number of enquiries from people looking to move back North. Interestingly, the majority of these clients are interested in properties at the higher end of the market, because of the comparatively good value of Gauteng versus Cape Town. The latest Lightstone Property data shows that Cape Town property prices have risen by 25% in the past five years. Compared to just 12% in Gauteng since the COVID-19 pandemic.
THE REAL COST OF LIVING
Amid ongoing economic pressures such as inflation and high interest rates, the cost of living in the Western Cape has increased. The lifestyle and scenic beauty undoubtedly remain a drawcard, but many who made the move find it challenging to sustain the lifestyles they are accustomed to. Especially for residents seeking a the space and amenities afforded them in Gauteng’s more affluent suburbs.
Furthermore, Cape Town’s infrastructure is lagging behind. This now includes water shortages and ever-present traffic congestion. In short, these and other factors have diminished the city’s appeal for those who left Johannesburg in the first place. Likewise, PayProp’s 2024 Annual Market Report reveals that Western Cape rental costs far exceed those in any other province.
NO LONGER SUSTAINABLE
Therefore, many professionals who believe they can sustain Gauteng-level salaries while working remotely from the coast are finding out otherwise. Plus, networking, career advancement and high-level business opportunities still remain concentrated in Gauteng hubs like Sandton, which is home to the JSE and 40% of the nation’s business output. In short, Cape Town’s skyrocketing cost of living is pushing buyers to seek better value elsewhere through desimigration …
HAVE YOU RECENTLY SEMIGRATED AND ARE YOU REGRETTING YOUR DECISION?
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