When choosing where to live in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, two names often come up: Plumstead and Kenilworth. Both offer excellence access to the city, good schools, and their beauty of Table Mountain as a backdrop. But the lifestyle in each suburb can feel quite different.
Plumstead: Space, Community & Affordability
Plumstead has long been known as a family-oriented suburb. Its tree-lined avenues and character-filled houses reflect a slower pace of life, while still being close enough to the city to keep commuting reasonable.
Who lives here?
- Many families with children who want stabilitybigger gardens and safe streets.
- Long-term residents who’ve been in the area for decades, adding to the suburb’s .
- First-time buyers who find Kenilworth or Claremont out of budget.
Advantages of Plumstead
✅ More House for Your Money – Compared t Kenilworth, Plumstead generally offers larger homes with gardens at a lower price point. Perfect if you want space for kids, pets, or even a veggie patch.
✅ Schools & Parks – Within or near Plumstead are respected schools, playgrounds, and sports fields. Families often mention how convenient it is for ⁶ activities.
✅ Quiet Residential Living – Life here is calmer. It doesn’t have the bustle of Kenilworth, which appeals to many.
Disadvantages of Plumstead
❌ Older Properties – Many homes are charming but dated, often needing renovation. If you want a move-in-ready home, you may have to search harder.
❌ Traffic at Peak Times – Main Road and Gabriel Road can bottleneck, especially during school hours.
Kenilworth: Central, Trendy & Convenient
Kenilworth is often described as a “social suburb”, thanks to its buzzing restaurants, pubs, and cafes—especially around Harfield Village. It’s lively, central, and ideal for those who want more convenience at their doorstep.
Who lives here?
- Young professionals who enjoy the nightlife and trendy dining options.
- Students (close to UCT) and young couples starting out.
- Professionals who want easy access to Claremont, Wynberg, and the CBD.
Advantages of Kenilworth
✅ Central Location – You’re close to Claremont shopping malls, Wynberg’s medical hub, and main transport routes like the M5.
✅ Trendy Lifestyle – Harfield Village alone is packed with pubs, restaurants, and cafés. Perfect if you love dining out or a social atmosphere.
✅ Good Public Transport – Train station, bus routes, and taxis all make commuting easier.
✅ Wide Property Range – From modern apartments to stylish Victorian houses, Kenilworth has variety.
Disadvantages of Kenilworth
❌ More Expensive – Expect to pay more for a smaller property compared to Plumstead. Apartments can also come with high levies.
❌ Limited Outdoor Space – Houses often sit on smaller plots. Families wanting big gardens might feel restricted.
❌ Busier Environment – With nightlife, traffic, and restaurants comes more noise. This won’t suit everyone.
❌ Parking Issues – Especially near Harfield Village, finding parking can be a daily struggle.
Lifestyle Match: Which One Fits You?
- If you’re a family who values affordability, garden space, and a calmer lifestyle, Plumstead is the better match.
- If you’re young, social, or career-focused, and you want quick access to nightlife, shops, and the city, Kenilworth will likely suit you more.
Quick Comparison: Plumstead vs Kenilworth
| Feature | Plumstead | Kenilworth |
|---|---|---|
| Property Prices | More affordable, bigger plots | Higher, smaller homes/apartments |
| Lifestyle | Quiet, family-friendly, traditional | Trendy, social, vibrant |
| Space | Larger houses with gardens | Smaller plots, more apartments |
| Community Feel | Strong neighbourhood spirit | Younger, faster-paced |
| Shopping/Dining | Local shops & basics | Harfield Village, malls, restaurants |
| Transport | Easy car access, some congestion | Excellent public transport & road access |
| Best For… | Families, long-term living | Young professionals, couples |
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, both Plumstead and Kenilworth are solid choices—they just appeal to different lifestyles.
- Plumstead gives you space, affordability, and family comfort.
- Kenilworth gives you convenience, energy and energy.
If you know of anyone who is thinking of selling or buying property in Cape Town, please call me
Lake Properties
083 624 7129
www.lakeproperties.co.za
info@lakeproperties.co.za
