Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
When it comes to affordable urban living in Harare, two names consistently rise to the top: Highfield and Glen View. Both suburbs offer relatively lower home prices, strong community spirit, and close proximity to the city centre making them popular among first-time homebuyers, young families, and informal business owners.
But when you're choosing between the two, which one offers better value for your money? Let’s compare Highfield and Glen View on key factors like price, infrastructure, lifestyle, and future potential.
Affordability: How Much Does It Cost to Buy in Each?
Highfield
- Average House Price: USD $18,000 – $35,000
- Rent (2-bed home): USD $120 – $200/month
- Stand Prices: Rare (mostly built-up)
Glen View
- Average House Price: USD $20,000 – $40,000
- Rent (2-bed home): USD $150 – $250/month
- Stand Prices: USD $15 – $30/m² (where available)
Highfield typically has lower entry prices due to older housing stock and less redevelopment, while Glen View, with more recent structures and larger lots, often commands slightly higher prices.
Infrastructure and Services
Highfield
- One of Harare’s oldest suburbs.
- Road networks need upgrading; many are worn and pothole-ridden.
- Limited formal shopping options, though informal trade thrives.
- Frequent water shortages, but strong community systems in place.
Glen View
- Slightly better road conditions.
- Known for Glen View Area 8 Furniture Complex, a major economic hub.
- Growing access to private clinics and schools.
- Water and electricity supply can still be erratic but improving.
Verdict: Glen View edges ahead in terms of modern infrastructure and development, but both face service delivery challenges typical of high-density areas.
Lifestyle and Community
Community Vibe
- Highfield: Deep historical roots; older, tight-knit
- Glen View: Younger families; entrepreneurial spirit
Proximity to CBD
- Highfield: Closer to central Harare
- Glen View: Slightly further west, but still accessible
Public Transport
- Highfield: Excellent kombi access
- Glen View: Strong kombi and mushikashika presence
Highfield has a rich political and cultural history many prominent figures hail from this suburb.
Glen View is often seen as more dynamic and enterprising, especially with its thriving informal businesses.
Growth Potential and Investment Outlook
Highfield:
- Densely populated with little space for new developments.
- However, its proximity to the CBD makes it attractive for urban regeneration or rental investments.
- Older homes offer renovation opportunities at a low base price.
Glen View:
- Still expanding, with more open land and potential for in-fill housing.
- Strong rental demand due to small business activity.
- Informal business economy is ripe for formalisation in future policy reforms.
“Glen View is a great entry-level market with long-term income potential. Highfield is good for value seekers and legacy properties.” — Local estate agent
So, Which Should You Choose?
✅ Choose Highfield if:
- You want the lowest price point for buying in Harare.
- You’re interested in fixer-upper opportunities or family legacy homes.
- You value a strong sense of history and community ties.
✅ Choose Glen View if:
- You’re looking for slightly newer housing stock and more vibrant local commerce.
- You’re buying for rental income or resale potential.
- You want a mix of affordability and future growth.
Final Thoughts
Both Highfield and Glen View represent real opportunities for buyers on a budget in Zimbabwe. They’re not just affordable they’re communities with heart, hustle, and history. Whether you’re investing, renting, or buying to live, your decision will come down to your priorities: price, location, infrastructure, and potential.
Browse Listings in Highfield and Glen View
Looking for affordable homes or stands in these suburbs?
Check the latest budget-friendly listings on Property.co.zw and find your next property with confidence.
