Parktown, Johannesburg

Introduction

Parktown is one of Johannesburg’s original business districts — a suburb where heritage meets modern commerce. Known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to key transport routes, Parktown remains a preferred destination for professional firms, medical institutions, and established corporates looking for accessibility and affordability close to the inner city.

Unlike newer glass-tower nodes such as Sandton or Rosebank, Parktown offers a calmer, more traditional environment. Its combination of green surroundings, well-maintained office parks, and strong infrastructure makes it ideal for businesses that value practicality, space, and centrality.

Location and Accessibility

Parktown sits between Johannesburg CBD and Rosebank, with direct access to both via Jan Smuts Avenue, Oxford Road, and the M1 highway. This location provides quick connections to the main business, legal, and academic institutions in the city.

The area is also conveniently close to major hospitals and educational institutions, including Netcare Park Lane, Wits University, and Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, making it a key location for companies in the healthcare, education, and legal sectors.

Public transport options are abundant, and the Park Station Gautrain is just a few minutes away, linking Parktown to Sandton, Pretoria, and O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Property Market Overview

Parktown’s property market is dominated by well-established office parks and standalone buildings, many with historical architecture that’s been modernised for today’s business needs.

• Office Spaces: A mix of traditional and modern offices, ranging from smaller professional suites to entire corporate head offices.
• Medical & Educational Premises: Proximity to hospitals and Wits University makes Parktown popular for healthcare and academic tenants.
• Value Offering: Rentals are generally more affordable than Sandton or Rosebank, with larger space options and easy parking.

Developments such as Oxford Road Office Park, The Hill on Empire, and Parktown Quarter have refreshed the area with upgraded facilities and modern design, attracting a mix of tenants from government, healthcare, law, and finance sectors.

Amenities and Lifestyle

Parktown offers a quieter, more professional environment than many other business districts. The area is surrounded by leafy residential suburbs like Forest Town, Westcliff, and Saxonwold, giving it a calm, park-like atmosphere.

Nearby amenities include cafés, hotels, and retail nodes in Rosebank and Killarney Mall, both within a few minutes’ drive. Employees enjoy a balance between accessibility and a peaceful working environment — something that remains a major advantage for businesses wanting a less hectic setting.

Why Businesses Choose Parktown

• Central location between Johannesburg CBD and Rosebank
• Direct M1 highway access via St. Andrews Road
• Affordable rentals with large office options
• Proximity to major hospitals, universities, and institutions
• Established business community with strong infrastructure
• Variety of office types: from modern parks to heritage buildings

Quick Snapshot of Parktown

• Established commercial node north of Johannesburg CBD
• Direct access to M1 highway, Oxford Road, and Jan Smuts Avenue
• Close to Wits University and key hospitals
• A mix of heritage offices and modern office parks
• Affordable rentals compared to Sandton and Rosebank

Frequently Asked Questions about Parktown

Is Parktown a safe area for businesses?
Yes, Parktown is considered one of Johannesburg’s more secure, established business suburbs. Many office parks offer 24-hour security, controlled access, and on-site management.

What types of offices are available in Parktown?
You’ll find both standalone commercial buildings and multi-tenant office parks. Many older buildings have been refurbished to modern standards, offering large, cost-effective office spaces.

Who typically rents space in Parktown?
The tenant base includes medical professionals, legal practices, academic institutions, NGOs, and corporates seeking proximity to Johannesburg CBD and Wits University.

How accessible is Parktown for commuting staff?
Extremely. The area links directly to the M1 highway and is within minutes of the Johannesburg CBD, Rosebank, and Braamfontein. Public transport and the Gautrain are also nearby.

Why choose Parktown over Rosebank or Sandton?
Parktown offers better value for money, with larger office options and lower rentals, while still being central and well-connected. It’s ideal for businesses that want a practical, green, and professional setting.

Final Thoughts

Parktown remains a cornerstone of Johannesburg’s commercial landscape — established, central, and accessible. Its balance between heritage charm and modern business convenience makes it an attractive option for companies that value location, affordability, and a professional working environment.

For tenants, landlords, and investors alike, Parktown continues to offer steady demand, excellent visibility, and long-term stability in the heart of the city.

Looking for Space in Parktown?

Whether you’re a landlord looking to secure quality tenants or a business searching for the right office or commercial space, we can help. With years of experience in Johannesburg’s commercial property market, we know the Parktown node inside out and can match you with the right opportunity. Get in touch today to explore available spaces and take the next step for your business.