Centrally located as a key commercial, transport, and residential hub in the heart of Cape Town’s burgeoning Southern Suburbs, Claremont CBD has recorded remarkable growth - with the combined value of residential and commercial property rising by 63.6% over the past decade to R8.6 billion in 2024/25. Of this, R6.52 billion represents commercial property and R2.08 billion residential property.
According to the Claremont Improvement District Company’s (CIDC) latest State of Claremont Report 2025-2026, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis cites Claremont as one of the metro’s most sought-after investment destinations. Its strategic location is also positioned as a critical site for inclusive urban development.
Says Abdul Kerbelker, executive manager of the Claremont Improvement District Company (CIDC): “With its appealing mixed-use character and high pedestrian and commuter volumes, Claremont is set to become one of the most important MyCiTi transport hubs in the city. The R10 billion expansion of the MyCiTi bus network and refurbishment of the public transport interchange represent the single largest public transport project ever undertaken by a city government in South Africa.
“Designed to enhance accessibility for shoppers, employees, and residents alike, the upgraded Claremont Public Transport Interchange will provide seamless connections between Metrorail, MyCiTi, Golden Arrow, and minibus taxi services. Once operational, it will make Claremont CBD easily accessible to over 1.4 million Capetonians across more than 30 communities.”
A key element of leafy Claremont’s enduring appeal lies in its seamless blend of commerce and lifestyle. The precinct hosts a dynamic mix of retail, financial, and legal firms, prestigious schools, and an increasingly affluent residential community.
Residential market reflects dual appeal of luxury and accessibility
Says Kerbelker: “Upper Claremont remains one of Cape Town’s most prestigious suburbs, offering a ‘tale of two markets’: relatively affordable sectional title apartments and exclusive freehold homes. The area continues to attract families, young professionals, and first-time buyers, drawn by its location, amenities, and quality of life.”
According to Lightstone, while the suburb is home to a large number of mature homeowners, it is also seeing growing demand from younger buyers acquiring their first homes in Claremont. Modern sectional title developments - often featuring rooftop pools, fitness centres, robust security, and with a demeanour of urban sophistication - are particularly popular. Proximity to coffee shops, restaurants, and retail amenities further enhances their appeal.
Over the past decade, the median sales price for freehold homes has risen by 48.5% to R7.2 million, while the sectional title market has surged by 69% to reach a record R2.4 million in 2025. Sales activity has remained consistently strong, with 255 homes sold in both 2023 and 2024, and 172 sales already recorded for 2025 to date.
Urban regeneration and development
Although available land for new projects is limited, Claremont is witnessing a wave of mixed-use developments in and around the CBD. These integrate residential, retail, and commercial spaces — reinforcing the area’s role as the economic heart of the Southern Suburbs.
In the commercial sector, sustained demand for high-quality office and retail space has prompted landlords to undertake significant refurbishments. This, in turn, has drawn both local and multinational firms to establish regional or head offices in Claremont.
Adds Kerbelker: “As part of Cape Town’s broader urban regeneration strategy, Claremont has been identified as a catalytic development node focused on creating well-connected, vibrant, and equitable neighbourhoods centred around transport hubs. With substantial investment in the public transport interchange and several City-owned plots earmarked for higher-density residential and mixed-use projects, the area is well-positioned for continued growth.
“By leveraging public-private partnerships and cross-subsidising infrastructure through private investment, the city aims to transform Claremont into a model of mobility-led, inclusive urban development, where efficient public transport underpins thriving communities and successful local businesses.”
The Claremont Improvement District Company continues to play a pivotal role in this evolution, focusing on urban safety, landscape enhancement, and strengthening the suburb’s sense of place and community identity.
