Howick is one of the most searched-for towns in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands by people planning to relocate. Buyers want clear, factual answers before committing to a move. This guide answers the most common questions about Howick, with practical context for anyone considering living here rather than just visiting.
What does the name “Howick” mean?
The name Howick is closely linked to the town’s most recognisable natural feature, the Howick Falls. The falls are approximately 95 metres high and the name is commonly understood to mean “tall waterfall”.
For residents, the falls are more than a landmark. They shape tourism, support local business, and form part of the town’s identity.
What is the Zulu name for Howick?
In isiZulu, the falls are known as KwaNogqaza, meaning “Place of the Tall One”. This name reflects the height and presence of the waterfall and forms part of the area’s pre-colonial history.
When was Howick founded?
Howick was founded in 1850. It developed as an important administrative and service centre in the Midlands and continues to fulfil that role today. This long-established base is one of the reasons the town has retained stable residential demand over time.
Which municipality does Howick fall under?
Howick is the administrative centre of the uMngeni Local Municipality. This places it at the heart of local governance for the surrounding Midlands towns and rural areas, reinforcing its role as a regional hub.
What is the population of Howick?
As of 2020, Howick’s population was estimated at approximately 31,853 people. Growth has been steady rather than rapid, helping the town maintain a balanced, small-town character while still offering essential services.
Is Howick rural or urban?
Howick is best described as a semi-rural country town.
Residents have access to shopping centres, schools, medical facilities and restaurants, but daily life still includes open space, farmland on the outskirts and a slower pace than larger cities. This balance is a key reason many people relocate here from Durban and Gauteng.
How far is Howick from Durban?
Howick is located approximately 88 kilometres from Durban and is easily accessed via the N3. This makes it realistic for professionals to live in Howick while working in Durban on a hybrid or part-time commuting basis.
Its proximity to Pietermaritzburg also adds convenience for work, education and healthcare.
What are the main attractions in Howick?
Howick’s attractions contribute directly to lifestyle appeal and local economic activity. Key points of interest include:
- The Howick Falls, which draws visitors throughout the year
- The Nelson Mandela Capture Site, a nationally significant heritage landmark
- Local arts, crafts, markets and Midlands tourism routes
For residents, these are part of everyday life rather than occasional tourist experiences.
What challenges do residents in Howick face?
As with most established towns, everyday experiences in Howick can vary depending on location and infrastructure.
Some areas experience occasional water supply interruptions, particularly during periods of maintenance or strain on municipal systems. Road conditions and signage quality can also differ between routes, with certain roads receiving more consistent upkeep than others.
These factors are not experienced uniformly across the town. Suburb choice, elevation, and proximity to key infrastructure all play a role, which is why local insight is important when relocating.
Are there safety concerns in Howick?
Howick faces similar security considerations to many Midlands towns and semi-rural areas. These typically include isolated incidents of petty crime, infrastructure damage, and livestock theft in surrounding farming regions.
Security levels differ meaningfully between freehold suburbs, sectional title developments and gated estates. Many residents choose areas based on their preferred balance between space, security and community structure.
Understanding how these differences play out in practice helps relocating buyers choose an area that aligns with their lifestyle and comfort level.
Is Howick a good place to relocate to?
Howick generally suits people looking for:
- A slower, more structured pace of life
- Access to established schools and medical services
- Proximity to Durban without city living
- A strong sense of community and outdoor lifestyle
It may not suit those seeking dense urban living or nightlife-focused areas.
How does this affect property decisions?
Understanding Howick’s history, location and day-to-day realities helps buyers make better long-term decisions. Factors such as access to the N3, water reliability, security models and suburb dynamics all influence lifestyle satisfaction and resale value.
If you are considering relocating, viewing properties with local insight is essential. You can explore current options across different suburbs on https://www.randrrealestate.co.za/howick
