Commercial Properties in Cresta – A Practical Guide for Business Owners
Cresta, nestled in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg within Randburg, is well-known for its thriving commercial activity centred around the iconic Cresta Shopping Centre. Initially established in the 1970s as a residential and retail hub, the area has since evolved into a diverse and accessible business destination, providing a solid foundation for small to medium-sized enterprises.
The area's charm lies in its balance between convenience, affordability, and strategic location - offering the benefits of proximity to major business hubs without the congestion or rental premiums seen in places like Sandton or Rosebank.
Business Landscape
Cresta’s commercial profile is driven by:
- Retail and consumer services anchored by Cresta Mall and nearby shopping centres
- Professional and consulting firms, including legal, accounting, and financial advisory services
- Medical and wellness practices are well-supported by nearby clinics and private practices
- Education and training centres, including private colleges and tutoring facilities
Large employers in the broader Randburg region, like Multichoice and numerous call centres, create a ripple effect that sustains service businesses in and around Cresta.
The area's growing appeal for business stems from its client-rich surroundings and ease of access to key commercial zones.
Location & Accessibility
Cresta is strategically located near several key arterial roads and transport links:
- Beyers Naudé Drive (M5): Direct connection to the N1 Western Bypass (±5 minutes away)
- N1 Freeway: Offers quick access to Midrand, Sandton, and Pretoria
- Republic Road & Judges Avenue: Links to Randburg and Ferndale
From Cresta, OR Tambo International Airport is about a 45-minute drive via the N3, while Lanseria International Airport is accessible within 35 minutes.
Nearby commercial hubs include:
- Randburg CBD
- Blairgowrie
- Ferndale
- Northcliff
These nodes support a strong network of service-based businesses and shared clientele.
Lifestyle and Staff
Cresta provides a comfortable and connected work environment for staff, with:
- Lunch spots and retail at Cresta Mall (Woolworths, Kauai, Spur, RocoMamas, Checkers)
- Coffee shops and remote work cafés are ideal for casual meetings (Seattle Coffee, Mugg & Bean)
- Fitness options like Virgin Active and Planet Fitness are close by
- Schools and childcare in Fairland, Northcliff, and Randburg
Metrobus and taxi routes service the area, and the mall's pedestrian-friendly environment adds to staff convenience.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Cresta benefits from a well-developed infrastructure designed to support commercial operations:
- Fibre internet via Vumatel, Frogfoot, and other providers
- Stable electricity supply, especially in the commercial core near the mall
- Municipal services managed by the City of Johannesburg, including water, sanitation, and waste
- Office parks and standalone commercial properties are ideal for service-based SMEs
Businesses here benefit from both visibility and accessibility, two key factors for customer-facing operations.
Commercial Property Trends
- Rental rates: A-Grade office space typically ranges from R110 to R135 per square metre.
- Property types: Includes open-plan offices, sectional-title suites, medical consulting rooms, and retail spaces.
- Vacancy rates: Under 5% in Q2 2024, signalling strong tenant demand and limited turnover.
Demand is highest for prominent locations along Beyers Naudé Drive or within walking distance of the mall.
Zoning & Development
Cresta is primarily zoned under Commercial 1 and Commercial 2, allowing for a range of business activities, including retail, offices, medical practices, and more.
Future upgrades and planned changes include:
- Intersection improvements along Beyers Naudé Drive to improve traffic flow
- Potential Gautrain feeder expansion, with long-term implications for Randburg connectivity
These factors continue to improve business access and long-term investment value.
Advantages of Operating in Cresta
Cresta offers tangible benefits for companies seeking a well-rounded business base:
- Excellent highway access – just minutes from the N1
- Affordable commercial space – lower than Rosebank, Sandton, or Fourways
- Established retail and service ecosystem – easy to plug into
- Broad talent pool – drawn from surrounding residential suburbs
- Supportive business environment – ideal for client-based services
Challenges or Considerations
- Traffic congestion on Beyers Naudé during peak times requires some planning.
- Parking constraints in older commercial properties – newer buildings typically include secure parking
- Limited larger floorplate options – suitable for SMEs more than large corporates
Despite these, Cresta remains one of the most accessible and cost-effective commercial locations in Randburg.
Cresta is a practical and well-located commercial hub with the right mix of convenience, affordability, and amenities. Whether you're opening a satellite office, relocating your head office, or launching a client-facing retail operation, Cresta is an area worth serious consideration.
To view available commercial properties in Cresta or speak with a local expert, contact us at Anvil Property Smith.
FAQs – Commercial Property in Cresta
1. What types of commercial properties are available in Cresta?
Offices, retail spaces, consulting rooms, and sectional-title units.
2. What’s the average office rental price in Cresta?
Between R110/m² and R135/m², depending on grade and location.
3. Is there fibre internet in the area?
Yes, Vumatel, Metrofibre, and Frogfoot all operate in Cresta.
4. Where can my team eat or meet clients?
Cresta Shopping Centre offers a variety of dining and meeting options.
5. How do I get to the highway from Cresta?
The N1 is less than 5 minutes away via Beyers Naudé Drive.
6. What are typical lease terms?
Most offices offer leases of 3–5 years, but shorter terms may also be available.
7. Is Cresta a safe business area?
Yes, particularly around the mall and established commercial buildings.
8. What’s the public transport access like?
Well-connected via buses and minibus taxis; Uber is also popular in the area.
9. Can I find space for a medical or consulting practice here?
Absolutely, many medical and allied health practitioners operate in Cresta.
10. Who can help me find commercial property in Cresta?
Contact Anvil Property Smith for tailored advice and listings.
0
