Howick, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands – Established Town Living in a Natural Setting

Howick is an established town in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, located between Hilton and Nottingham Road along the N3 corridor. It offers a balanced lifestyle that combines natural surroundings with strong local services. Property in Howick ranges from family homes and estates to retirement and lifestyle developments, appealing to families, retirees and professionals seeking space, greenery and everyday convenience.

Overview of Howick

Howick is one of the Midlands’ most settled and well-supported towns. It has grown steadily while retaining a strong community feel and close connection to its natural environment. The town functions as a residential and service hub for surrounding suburbs, estates and rural areas.

Location and Accessibility

Howick is positioned on the N3 between Hilton and Nottingham Road, making it easily accessible from Pietermaritzburg and Durban. This location supports both daily commuting and longer-distance travel.

Typical travel times include:

• Pietermaritzburg – approximately 20 to 25 minutes
• Hilton – approximately 10 minutes
• Durban – approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes

Lifestyle and Environment

Howick is closely associated with the natural landscape of the Midlands. The town is home to the well-known Howick Falls, located near the town centre and forming part of everyday life for residents.

Outdoor recreation is a strong part of the local lifestyle. The surrounding Karkloof area offers established walking, trail running and mountain-biking routes through indigenous forest and farmland. Midmar Dam, located a short drive from the town, provides opportunities for boating, paddling, fishing and open-water swimming.

Howick also serves as a central access point to the Midlands Meander, a well-known network of farm stalls, craft studios, food producers and family attractions that contribute to the area’s relaxed, rural character.

Property Types and Market Profile

Property in Howick is diverse and accommodates a wide range of buyers. Options typically include:

• Established family homes in long-standing suburbs
• Secure estates and gated communities
• Retirement and lifestyle developments
• Lock-up-and-go townhouses and complexes

Demand remains consistent, supported by affordability relative to larger cities, generous property sizes and the area’s strong community appeal.

Community and Services

Howick offers a full range of everyday services, including retail centres, medical facilities and professional services. It serves as a practical base for families and retirees who want access to amenities without the scale and congestion of a large city.

Educational options in and around Howick are a key drawcard, with a mix of local schools and access to well-regarded Midlands institutions within a comfortable drive.

Who Buys in Howick?

• Families seeking space, schooling and a safe environment
• Retirees looking for peaceful living with good services nearby
• Professionals commuting to Hilton or Pietermaritzburg
• Buyers relocating from Gauteng or coastal cities
• Lifestyle buyers drawn to outdoor activity and community living

Howick is less suited to buyers wanting high-density urban living or remote rural isolation.

Buying Property in Howick

Buying in Howick requires an understanding of neighbourhood differences, estate regulations and long-term suitability. Our team works closely with buyers and sellers across Howick and the surrounding Midlands, providing guidance tailored to each property type and lifestyle need.

For a clear overview of the buying process, refer to our R&R Real Estate Buyer’s Guide.