Is Centurion a Safe Place to Live?
Centurion is one of the most strategically located residential areas in Gauteng, offering access to major business districts, transport links, and top schools.
But for people moving into the area, or considering buying property, the question of safety often plays a significant role in decision-making.
This 2025 guide examines crime statistics, suburb-by-suburb trends, local security initiatives, and what makes certain areas of Centurion safer than others.
Understanding Safety in the South African Context
Before looking at Centurion specifically, it’s important to understand the broader context:
- South Africa has high crime rates in general compared to global averages, with crime often concentrated in specific urban pockets.
- Gauteng, the country’s economic hub, consistently reports high levels of property crime, vehicle theft, and robberies.
- However, crime levels vary significantly by neighbourhood, time of day, and socio-economic conditions.
- Most middle- and upper-income areas manage crime through community-led initiatives, private security, and boomed suburbs.
Overview: Is Centurion Generally Safe?
Centurion is considered moderately safe relative to other parts of Gauteng.
It has lower reported violent crime than central Pretoria and Johannesburg, and many of its residential areas actively invest in security infrastructure.
Key takeaways:
- Violent crime (assault, murder) is relatively low in Centurion’s suburban areas.
- Petty theft and property-related crimes (such as burglaries and vehicle theft) are more common.
- Safety varies widely by suburb, and newer or estate-based developments tend to have lower crime rates.
Recent Crime Data for Centurion
The South African Police Service (SAPS) reports crime statistics based on the Lyttelton, Wierdaburg, and Olievenhoutbosch police precincts, which cover most of Centurion.
📍 Lyttelton SAPS Precinct
Covers suburbs like Clubview, Die Hoewes, Doringkloof, Lyttelton, and parts of Irene.
- Common crimes: Vehicle theft, housebreaking, business robbery
- Hotspots: Near major roads like Jean Avenue and busy commercial zones
📍 Wierdaburg SAPS Precinct
Covers Eldoraigne, Wierda Park, Rooihuiskraal, and surrounding suburbs.
- Common crimes: Theft out of vehicles, residential break-ins, minor assault
- Trends: Often associated with high activity areas near schools and shopping centres
📍 Olievenhoutbosch SAPS Precinct
Covers southern areas such as The Reeds, Olievenhoutbosch, and some developing suburbs.
- Common crimes: Robbery with firearms, assault, drug-related crimes
- Note: Higher density and informal housing areas tend to have more reported violence
Safest Suburbs in Centurion (2024 Insight)
Based on resident reports, private security data, and community policing activity, the following suburbs are regarded as safer:
| Suburb | Safety Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Irene | Boomed access, active CPF, private patrols, low crime reports |
| Southdowns | Gated estate, controlled access, high visibility patrols |
| Midstream | Technically part of greater Centurion; has its own internal security and is one of the safest gated communities in Gauteng |
| Eldoraigne | Older suburb with strong community watch and CPF presence |
| Amberfield | Many areas boomed or gated, modern complexes with built-in security |
| Highveld | Sections are monitored by street groups and private cameras |
Suburbs with Moderate Risk
These areas have pockets of strong security but may also have more exposure to public roads and commercial activity:
| Suburb | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Die Hoewes | Close to CBD, good for Gautrain access, but higher foot traffic and petty crime |
| Rooihuiskraal | Popular with families, but property crime reported in certain non-boomed streets |
| Clubview | Larger plots and older homes may lack newer security upgrades |
Suburbs with Higher Reported Crime
While not unsafe by default, these areas experience higher incidents of opportunistic or violent crime, often linked to density and socio-economic challenges.
| Suburb | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Olievenhoutbosch | Fast-growing area with infrastructure challenges, higher crime figures |
| The Reeds | Mixed-density housing, some street-level robberies and vehicle theft |
Security Measures That Improve Safety
Centurion residents actively invest in community safety.
These are the most effective strategies currently used:
1. Boomed Areas
- Streets are closed off with guarded entrances or camera-monitored access
- Often organised by homeowner associations
- Found in parts of Irene, Eldoraigne, and Wierda Park
2. Community Policing Forums (CPFs)
- Volunteer-driven and SAPS-coordinated
- Share safety alerts, coordinate patrols, and liaise with local police
- Active CPF zones include Lyttelton, Highveld, and Wierda Park
3. WhatsApp Safety Groups
- Localised per street or complex
- Real-time sharing of alerts, license plates, and unusual activity
- Encourage resident involvement
4. Private Armed Response
- Most homes and complexes subscribe to security companies like Fidelity ADT, Copwatch, Monitor Net, or Brinant
- Includes panic buttons, armed guards, and alarm response
5. CCTV and License Plate Recognition (LPR)
- Used at strategic intersections and suburb entrances
- Increasingly funded by residents’ associations
Tips for Staying Safe in Centurion
Even in safer areas, basic precautions are recommended:
- Install electric fencing and perimeter lighting
- Join your local CPF and WhatsApp safety group
- Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles near shopping centres or train stations
- Use armed response services for emergencies and deterrence
- Choose properties in gated communities if relocating from outside the region
Safety When Using Public Spaces
- Malls and shopping centres are generally safe but remain vigilant in parking areas.
- Gautrain and feeder buses are safe during peak hours but less patrolled late at night.
- Parks and recreational trails are safe when used in groups or during daylight.
Conclusion
Living in Centurion means living in a moderately safe place by South African standards, especially in areas with strong community involvement and private security.
Suburbs like Irene, Eldoraigne, and Southdowns rank highly for safety, while mixed-use areas like Die Hoewes require more vigilance due to higher foot traffic.
With the right safety measures in place, Centurion offers a secure and family-friendly environment for long-term residents, professionals, and retirees alike.
