A Guide to Renting Office Space in
Johannesburg, South Africa

Geography

Nestled in the heart of the Gauteng province, Johannesburg is not only the wealthiest province in South Africa but also the smallest by land area. The city is located on the Highveld plateau and has an elevation of about 1,753 meters, which contributes to its relatively mild climate as compared to other regions of the country. Johannesburg is surrounded by rolling hills and is not far from the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where some of the oldest hominid fossils have been found.

Getting There & Around

O.R. Tambo International Airport serves as the main gateway into Johannesburg and is the busiest airport in Africa. It connects Johannesburg with destinations across the globe, making international business travel convenient. The city is also accessible through Lanseria International Airport which caters to domestic and regional flights. For those travelling within South Africa, Johannesburg is well-connected by major highways and railway networks. The Gautrain rapid transit railway system provides a fast and efficient link between Johannesburg, Pretoria, and O.R. Tambo International Airport. Additionally, various bus services and minibus taxis offer comprehensive local transportation options.

Local Economy

Johannesburg's economy is diverse and robust, with the majority of South African companies headquartered in this bustling metropolis. The city is a significant economic engine for the country, with finance, retail, and services dominating its economic landscape. Johannesburg is also home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), which is the largest stock exchange in Africa. The city's roots in mining are still evident, though the sector has diminished over the years. Today, Johannesburg is moving towards a knowledge-based economy with a focus on sectors such as information and communication technology, healthcare, and education. The local government is actively investing in urban development projects and infrastructure improvements to ensure continued economic growth and to appeal to international and local business communities alike.

Office Space & Districts

The office space market in Johannesburg is centered in several key business districts:

Sandton: Known as Africa’s richest square mile, Sandton is the premier financial district of Johannesburg, home to major corporations, investment banks, and the JSE. It offers premium office spaces in modern high-rise buildings.

Rosebank: A cosmopolitan area with a blend of residential and commercial developments. Rosebank is increasingly popular with businesses due to its modern office spaces and vibrant lifestyle amenities.

Braamfontein: Home to the Johannesburg Civic Centre and numerous educational institutions, this district offers a range of office spaces, popular among creative industries and educational organizations.

Johannesburg CBD: Although it faced decline, the CBD is undergoing revitalization, attracting a mix of businesses with its more affordable office space options in both historic and modern buildings.

Midrand: Located between Johannesburg and Pretoria, Midrand is an emerging business hub offering spacious office parks and commercial developments, suitable for businesses looking for a central location in the Gauteng region.

In Johannesburg, the office space market varies from luxurious high-rise buildings in affluent areas to more affordable options in rejuvenating districts. The city's focus on redevelopment and modernization is reflected in its diverse range of office environments.