Student Accommodation Johannesburg, SA

LIf you’re planning to study in South Africa’s largest and most dynamic city, finding the right student accommodation in Johannesburg is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. From modern apartments near major universities to budget-friendly student housing options across the city, Johannesburg offers a diverse range of options to suit every lifestyle and budget.

This guide explores everything you need to know about student housing in Johannesburg, including why this city is an excellent choice for students, where to live, and a full list of the top accommodation providers.

About Johannesburg: South Africa’s Economic and Educational Powerhouse

Johannesburg, commonly referred to as Joburg or Jozi, is the beating heart of South Africa. Known for its fast-paced lifestyle, world-class infrastructure, and cultural diversity, Johannesburg is also a major centre for higher education.

The city is home to leading institutions, including:

• University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
• University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• Rosebank College
• Boston City Campus
• AFDA Film School

With a student population in the hundreds of thousands, the demand for high-quality student accommodation in Johannesburg has grown substantially. Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or international student, Johannesburg offers a unique blend of academic opportunities, urban living, and career-driven networking – all within a globally connected city.

Why Choose Student Accommodation in Johannesburg?

Studying in Johannesburg offers more than just academic excellence. Here’s why thousands of students choose student accommodation in Johannesburg every year:

Wide Range of Accommodation Options

From university residences to private apartment complexes and co-living setups, Johannesburg caters to various preferences and budgets. Students can choose from shared rooms, studio apartments, furnished flats, or dedicated student housing blocks.

Close Proximity to Campuses

Many modern student accommodation options in Johannesburg are located near key institutions, eliminating the need for long and expensive commutes.

Better Career Opportunities

Johannesburg is South Africa’s financial capital and home to countless multinational firms, NGOs, and start-ups. Students living in the city have unique access to internships, part-time work, and hands-on experience aligned with their fields of study.

Vibrant Student Life

From trendy cafés, art galleries, and music venues in Braamfontein, to top-tier malls and green public parks in Sandton and Rosebank, Joburg offers a lifestyle that balances work and play.

High-Tech Amenities

Most student residences in Johannesburg come equipped with fast Wi-Fi, biometric access, backup power, gym access, and on-site study areas. Safety, comfort, and convenience are top priority.

1. The Fields South View

Views, comfort, and a location tailor-made for Wits students.

• Provider: Respublica Student Living
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • 24/7 controlled access
  • Study lounges and group workspaces
  • Gym and laundry
  • Wi-Fi and entertainment rooms
• Nearest University: University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
• Distance: 950m (10-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Central. Stylish. Structured perfectly for student life.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Nelson Mandela Bridge

2. City Waldorf

Right across the Wits campus. No excuses for being late.

• Provider: City Waldorf Property Group
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • Fully furnished units
  • Free transport shuttles
  • Wi-Fi included
  • Tight security
• Nearest University: Wits University
• Distance: 300m (4-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Proximity. Privacy. And high-rise views that spark productivity.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Joburg Theatre

3. Umhlanga Junction Student Accommodation

Brand new, built with students in mind.

• Provider: Umhlanga Student Living
• Location: Auckland Park
• Amenities:
  • Private and shared options
  • Kitchen facilities
  • Biometric security
  • Study areas and fast internet
• Nearest University: University of Johannesburg (APK Campus)
• Distance: 1.5km (5-min drive)
• Why It’s Great: It’s modern. It’s social. It’s secure. Everything just clicks.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Campus Square Mall

4. Bridgeview Student Apartments

Low-key, comfy, and a solid choice for those who study hard.

• Provider: Kofifi Student Living
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • Kitchenettes
  • Furnished bedrooms
  • Security patrols
  • Communal study lounges
• Nearest University: Wits
• Distance: 1km (10-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: It’s quiet, perfect for students who need proper study time.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Constitution Hill

5. @85 Student Living

Urban vibe meets academic focus.

• Provider: Private Landlord
• Location: Auckland Park
• Amenities:
  • Transport shuttles
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Shared kitchens
  • Study desks in every room
• Nearest University: UJ Kingsway Campus
• Distance: 750m (walking distance)
• Why It’s Great: Practical, student-priced, and incredibly close to classes.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Melville’s 7th Street

6. Aston Court Student Lodge

A small community with a strong support system.

• Provider: Aston Court Group
• Location: Westdene, Johannesburg
• Amenities:
  • Private bedrooms
  • Wi-Fi, communal kitchens
  • On-site landlord
  • Laundry and cleaning services
• Nearest University: UJ Kingsway
• Distance: 1.1km (walking distance)
• Why It’s Great: Feels more like a cozy home than a commercial res.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Westdene Dam Park

7. The Campus House

Because modern minimalism makes focus easier.

• Provider: Campus House Property
• Location: Auckland Park
• Amenities:
  • Single and twin-sharing rooms
  • Wi-Fi hotspot zones
  • Study decks
  • Entertainment area
• Nearest University: UJ APK
• Distance: 550m (7-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Purpose-built for student energy and daily grind.
• Nearby Hot Spot: SABC Studios

8. Residency@Braam

Sleek finishes. Smart layout. Great vibe.

• Provider: South Point SA
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • Rooftop views
  • Built-in desks
  • Study areas + Wi-Fi
  • Onsite laundry
• Nearest University: Wits
• Distance: 600m (8 minutes on foot)
• Why It’s Great: Seriously modern. Easy to settle in.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Neighbourgoods Market

9. Maxwell Court

Straightforward and super budget-friendly.

• Provider: Private Listing
• Location: Doornfontein
• Amenities:
  • Shared rooms
  • Wi-Fi, basic kitchen
  • On-site caretaker
  • Gated access
• Nearest University: University of Johannesburg – DFC
• Distance: 1.3km (5 minutes by taxi)
• Why It’s Great: No-frills, but super convenient for DFC students.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Ellis Park Station

10. The Yard Residence

All about student lifestyle… with a social twist.

• Provider: South Point
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • Private rooms
  • Common kitchen and lounges
  • Wi-Fi included
  • Controlled access
• Nearest University: Wits
• Distance: 700m (9-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Social but focused. A good balance.
• Nearby Hot Spot: WITS Art Museum

11. The Exchange Lofts

Modern. Industrial. Totally Insta-worthy.

• Provider: Urban Spiral Living
• Location: Newtown, Johannesburg
• Amenities:
  • Loft-style apartments
  • High ceilings and wooden floors
  • High-speed fibre
  • 24/7 security and access control
• Nearest University: University of Johannesburg – DFC Campus
• Distance: 2.4km (7 minutes by car)
• Why It’s Great: It’s not just a student space, it’s a lifestyle. For creatives, postgrads, and serious thinkers.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Newtown Junction Mall + Market Theatre

12. The Richmond Rooms

A peaceful retreat in the middle of the academic hustle.

• Provider: Private Owner
• Location: Richmond, Johannesburg
• Amenities:
  • Large private rooms
  • Weekly cleaning
  • Shared kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
• Nearest University: UJ APK Campus
• Distance: 1.8km (5-minute drive or 15-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Super chill, quiet crowd, and one of the best-kept secrets in JHB.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Milpark Gallery + Richmond Park

13. Heriot Student Village

A purpose-built space designed especially for students.

• Provider: Heriot Student Living
• Location: Braamfontein
• Amenities:
  • Study hubs and chill lounges
  • Fully furnished private rooms
  • Rooftop garden
  • 24/7 access control and CCTV
• Nearest University: Wits
• Distance: 900m (10-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Combines security, student atmosphere, and structure, in a prime location.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Joburg Central Library

14. The Melville Collective

Trendy, social, and oh-so close to creative hotspots.

• Provider: Melville Students
• Location: Melville, Johannesburg
• Amenities:
  • Shared apartments
  • Rooftop terraces
  • Common cooking spaces
  • Free social events
• Nearest University: UJ APK
• Distance: 2.2km (7-minute drive)
• Why It’s Great: It’s where the artsy students stay. Known for strong community vibes.
• Nearby Hot Spot: 7th Street – cafés, bookstores, street art

15. One on West

Luxury and calm wrapped into one neat student residence.

• Provider: One Living
• Location: Westdene
• Amenities:
  • Private furnished rooms
  • Mini gym and chill-out zones
  • Wi-Fi
  • Transport to campus
• Nearest University: UJ APK Campus
• Distance: 1.4km (4-minute drive)
• Why It’s Great: Ideal for focused students who want more peace without sacrificing convenience.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Campus Square Mall

16. The Bree Urban Village

A vibrant setup in the inner-city zone.

• Provider: Bree Rentals
• Location: Johannesburg CBD
• Amenities:
  • Twin and solo units
  • Shared kitchen and laundry
  • Reliable security
  • Rooftop leisure space
• Nearest University: Wits University
• Distance: 2km (6 minutes via Rea Vaya)
• Why It’s Great: Central city near everything. Great if you’re into fast-paced energy.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Bree Taxi Rank + Gandhi Square

17. Jubilee Student Residence

Straightforward and affordable housing, well-managed and quiet.

• Provider: CityEdge Properties
• Location: Doornfontein
• Amenities:
  • Furnished bedrooms
  • Wi-Fi and power backup
  • CCTV security and access control
  • On-site laundromat
• Nearest University: UJ DFC + University of Johannesburg College of Education
• Distance: 800m (12-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Perfect for UJ students, no-fuss, all you need, zero nonsense.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Maboneng Precinct

18. The Fort Apartments

Sophisticated, tall, and conveniently located.

• Provider: UrbanFort Living
• Location: Hillbrow/Rissik Street
• Amenities:
  • Compact private rooms
  • Common lounges
  • All-inclusive rates
  • Study rooms
• Nearest University: Wits
• Distance: 1.9km (6 minutes by car)
• Why It’s Great: Tower-style living packed with amenities. Works well for students who like it busy but fully serviced.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Constitution Hill

19. Stay Smart Campus Living

Modern, minimal, and thoughtfully designed for digital-first students.

• Provider: Smart Urban Spaces
• Location: Parktown
• Amenities:
  • Tech-enabled study areas
  • Free high-speed bandwidth
  • Noise-control design
  • Meal plans available
• Nearest University: Wits Education + Medical Schools
• Distance: 1.2km (5 or 6 min walk)
• Why It’s Great: Designed with online classes and blended learning in mind.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Brenthurst Gardens

20. Legacy Student Living

Organized, secure and built for community.

• Provider: Legacy Group
• Location: Auckland Park
• Amenities:
  • Fully furnished private and shared rooms
  • Parking available
  • Wi-Fi and cleaning services
  • Common rec room
• Nearest University: UJ APK
• Distance: 1.7km (6 mins by Uber)
• Why It’s Great: Reliable environment and tight-knit student community.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Auckland Park Mosque + Helen Joseph Hospital

21. 78 Rissik Student Pads

Compact, central, and truly budget-friendly.

• Provider: Student Pad Rentals
• Location: Johannesburg CBD
• Amenities:
  • Budget studio units
  • Shared kitchens
  • Access control
  • Wi-Fi friendly zones
• Nearest University: Wits Business School
• Distance: 1.5km (10 min walk or 3-min ride)
• Why It’s Great: One of the most affordable options for city-centre students.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Carlton Centre

22. Wits Junction

Wits’ official residence, but it lives like a resort.

• Provider: University of the Witwatersrand (on-campus housing)
• Location: Parktown
• Amenities:
  • Massive sporting grounds
  • Cafeteria and lounge areas
  • 24-hour student security
  • Study centres
• Nearest University: Directly part of Wits
• Distance: On campus
• Why It’s Great: You’re in the Wits ecosystem. Managed by the university with all the extras.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Education Campus & Wits Medical School

23. The Bantry

Mid-range housing not far from Melville nightlife.

• Provider: Bantry Living
• Location: Auckland Park/Melville Border
• Amenities:
  • Fully furnished
  • En-suite and shared baths
  • Rooftop socials
  • Secure entry
• Nearest University: UJ APK
• Distance: 1.6km (10-minute walk)
• Why It’s Great: Quiet inside. Lively just down the road. Best of both.
• Nearby Hot Spot: 7th Street & Melville Koppies

24. Maboneng Lofts for Students

Urban, creative, and full of personality.

• Provider: Creative Lofts Co.
• Location: Maboneng
• Amenities:
  • Artsy shared flats
  • Fast Wi-Fi and work zones
  • Open courtyards
  • Night security guard
• Nearest University: UJ DFC + Central Johannesburg College
• Distance: 2.0km (7-minute drive)
• Why It’s Great: Inspiring space for design students, film majors, and free-thinkers.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Arts on Main & The Bioscope Cinema

25. The Parktown Quarters

Comfort-rich units close to hospitals and med schools.

• Provider: Parktown Quarters Rentals
• Location: Parktown, Johannesburg
• Amenities:
  • Fully serviced units
  • Wi-Fi & cleaning included
  • Shared kitchens
  • Dedicated shuttle service
• Nearest University: Wits Medical School
• Distance: 700m (short walk)
• Why It’s Great: Best for health sciences students needing quiet after 10-hour shifts.
• Nearby Hot Spot: Charlotte Maxeke Hospital

Top Areas to Live for Students in Johannesburg

Choosing the right suburb is key to your overall university experience. Here are some of the most popular and student-friendly areas for accommodation in Johannesburg:

Braamfontein

One of the most well-known student areas, Braamfontein is located next to the University of Witwatersrand and has a strong student vibe. It boasts easy access to public transport, cultural landmarks, and student-centric cafés/shops.

Auckland Park

Home to parts of the University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park is a top choice for safe, affordable student accommodation with parks, shops, and libraries nearby.

Melville

Known for its bohemian feel, Melville is a great option for students attending UJ or WITS. It offers a mix of shared houses, private apartments, and furnished student rentals.

Doornfontein

A growing hub for affordable student housing close to University of Johannesburg’s Doornfontein campus and several technical colleges.

Rosebank

Although slightly more upmarket, Rosebank is a fantastic area for those who prefer luxury studios, security, and upscale living, while still enjoying access to campuses and main transit routes.

Randburg

More suburban in nature and suitable for students attending nearby business and creative colleges, Randburg offers affordable rentals away from the inner-city rush.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

As South Africa’s most influential city, Johannesburg offers more than just education – it offers a full student lifestyle. Whether you want to live near campus, explore internship opportunities, or experience Johannesburg’s vibrancy, the city has the perfect accommodation to support your academic and personal growth.

Use this guide to explore your options, evaluate top neighbourhoods, and browse the top 25 student accommodation options in Johannesburg. With the right place to call home, you’re all set for a successful year ahead.