Over the past two decades, South Africa's coastal towns have undergone significant development and growth, with over 33% of the population now living within a 10km radius of the country's 3000km shoreline.
Traditionally, these areas attracted an older demographic seeking a seaside retirement. However, increasingly it is young families that are packing their bags to relocate to the coast.
In the Western Cape, nearly a quarter of Hermanus's permanent residents are now under 35. In Langebaan, this figure rises to 33%, and in the Blouberg area, it surpasses 40%.
The same pattern has emerged on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Traditionally seen mainly as holiday destinations, coastal villages like Ballito, Salt Rock, and Sheffield have become sought-after primary residences for younger families.
This wave of semigration is transforming the coastal real estate market, as properties once sought for holiday homes or weekend getaways are now being snapped up by out-of-town buyers looking to settle permanently.
These buyers account for nearly 70% of home purchases in hidden gems like Mossel Bay and Port Alfred.
The migration is providing a substantial boost to local economies. KwaZulu-Natal, in particular, has seen significant growth in the commercial and retail sectors.
The Ballito and Umhlanga corridor is now the fastest-growing wealth market in South Africa, with a 25% increase over the past decade.
Paul Keursten, CEO and co-founder of Workshop17, attributes this growth to the semigration of remote workers and larger companies seeking a more balanced lifestyle.
These "zoom towns" – a term originally coined in the United States – are chosen for their ability to offer big-city services alongside opportunities for sports and leisure activities.
Workshop17 has made note of this zoom town demand and has recently opened their eighth flexible work location in the renovated Ballito Junction Regional Mall. The beautiful space, with capacity for nearly 500 members, offers a combo of luxury work solutions and retail convenience, all under one roof, while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Comments