By Vanessa Hau-Yoon - Wilderness Properties
Buy Local first Issue (April-May 2025)
The Garden Route, a scenic stretch along South Africa’s southern coast, is one of the country’s most sought-after destinations. Towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, Herolds Bay, and George boast a unique blend of natural beauty, a mild climate, and a relaxed lifestyle that attracts young families, retirees, investors, and remote professionals alike.
The Garden Route District has a diverse population, with a sizable working-age group, a significant number of children, and a growing elderly community
67.6% of the population is between the ages of 15 and 64.
In the 25 to 34 age group, there are more men than women.
22.2% of the population is under 14 years old, though this is slightly lower than the national average.
10.2% of the population is over 65 years old.
As of 2023, the Garden Route District’s population is estimated at 857,132.
Property Market Insights:
The enduring phrase “buying a house is a good investment” remains relevant, especially in the Garden Route, where property continues to be a wise financial decision. Despite economic fluctuations, real estate investment is a steady path to financial security. Unlike more volatile assets, property value tends to appreciate over time, making it an ideal investment.
Property Market Trends (2024):
The Garden Route property market recorded 9,297 sales in 2024, down from 10,081 in 2021.
However, the average selling price has increased from R1,420,000 in 2021 to R2,100,000 in 2024.
March 2024 saw a 12.5% increase in demand for buy-to-rent properties, up from 8.3% in Q1 2023.
Wilderness has seen a steady increase in average sale prices, from R1,550,000 in 2021 to R2,400,000 in 2023.
In George, the average sale price of property in 2024 was R2,150,000, based on 2,785 sales.
Property24.com predicts it will rise to R2,338,500 in 2025.
Knysna’s average sale price rose from R1,995,000 in 2017 to R3,625,000 in 2024
Hayley Ivins-Downes, managing executive of real estate at Lightstone, noted that nationally, sales volumes were down 5% in 2023 compared to 2019, while homeowners paid, on average, 25% more for their properties in 2023.
Notably, Herolds Bay, outside George, experienced the biggest increase in average sales prices, rising from just under R2 million in 2019 to over R4 million in 2023.
Demand for complex or estate living is high in towns like George, Mossel Bay, and Knysna. At the same time, many are seeking properties that offer “off-the-grid” living and self-sustainable land in the surrounding areas.
Both George and Mossel Bay municipalities are recognized among the best-managed in the country, attracting retirees and young families. Their proximity to the George airport, top private and provincial medical facilities, and schools further boosts their appeal.
