The new middle ground

One year on and the data clearly shows just how differently the pandemic and lockdowns have impacted our big metro cities and small towns. While some smaller towns and coastal gems are luring new property owners to work remotely, most of our bigger cities are grappling with failing businesses and rising unemployment.

But what of the middle ground - the large non-metro towns? What do household incomes look like and how is property faring in these uncertain times?

Large non-metro towns and small towns have more in common than you think and it’s not just about better property value. That’s why the appeal of some small towns that lie close to big cities and en route to popular tourism destinations are experiencing a boom, and not just in better property prices but in diverse property stock too.

Dullstroom is a case in point. In 1994, Dullstroom had just 238 properties. By 2021 this had soared to 1,278. And while all of the 238 properties in 1994 were freehold (642 properties in 2021), estate properties are now nipping at their heels with 579 in total.

Let’s take a closer look …

Urbanisation drives increase in households in top ten non-metros

Property prices increase in some towns, drift in others - but rising number of start-ups in townships are an encouraging sign

Cities and small towns are experiencing diļ¬€ering fortunes from the pandemic and the lockdowns.

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Gone fishing

Dullstroom typical of tourism towns emerging from the pandemic

Nestled in the Mpumalanga Highlands, Dullstroom has become a favourite getaway for Gauteng’s city workers who want peace and quiet in an idyllic setting or as a half-way stop for those visiting the Kruger National Park.

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