Student Accommodation for Wits Students (2026 Complete Guide)

Finding the right place to live is one of the most important decisions a Wits student will make. Accommodation affects not only your budget, but also your academic performance, safety, social life, and daily routine.

This guide provides a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of all major student accommodation options available to University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) students in 2026, including:

• Official Wits residences

• Wits Junction

• Accredited private accommodation near campus

• Updated 2026 pricing for each option

Whether you are a first-year, senior undergraduate, or postgraduate student, this guide will help you make an informed choice.

1. Official Wits University Residences (On-Campus & University-Managed)

Wits residences are ideal for students who want close proximity to campus, structured student life, and strong security. These residences are in high demand, especially for first-year students.

A. Catered Residences (2026)

Catered residences include accommodation plus meals, with students choosing a weekly meal plan.

Major catered residences include:

• David Webster Hall

• Ernest Oppenheimer Hall

• Girton Hall

• Jubilee Hall

• Knockando Halls

• Medhurst Hall

• Men’s Hall

• Sunnyside

2026 Pricing (Annual – Rent + Meals):

Meal Plan	Meals per Week	Total Annual Cost
10 meals (breakfast & dinner)	10	± R86 034
10 meals (lunch & dinner)	10	± R88 819
14 meals	14	± R92 625 – R95 316
15 meals (3 per day)	15	± R95 771
19 meals	19	± R102 354

Key notes:

• Base room rental: ± R70 400/year

• Meals are compulsory in catered residences

• Initial payment: R5 000 upon acceptance

Best for:
First-year students, students new to Johannesburg, and those who want a strong campus community.

B. Self-Catering Wits Residences (2026)

Self-catering residences offer more independence, as students prepare their own meals.

Major self-catering options and updated 2026 fees:

Residence	Room Type	Annual Cost
Barnato Hall	Single	R71 638
Barnato Hall (New Wing)	Single	R88 494
Barnato Hall	Double	R77 056
Braamfontein Centre	Shared	R55 685
Braamfontein Centre	Single	R58 695
Campus Lodge	Studio	R89 693
Campus Lodge	2-bed (single room)	R80 270
International House	Studio	R117 962
Knockando Halls	Single	R72 842
Noswal Hall	Studio	R83 979
West Campus Village	Studio	R117 962
West Campus Village	Unrenovated	R85 855

Best for:
Senior undergraduates and postgraduates who want campus access without a meal plan.

2. Wits Junction (University-Affiliated Apartments)

Wits Junction is a modern, apartment-style residence in Parktown, designed primarily for postgraduate and mature students.

2026 Wits Junction Pricing (Annual):

Unit Type	Annual Cost
Studio	R112 176
2-bedroom	R105 184
3–4 bedroom	R99 104
12-bedroom	R93 632

What’s included:

• Furnished apartments

• Wi-Fi

• Laundry facilities

• Security and access control

• Wits bus transport

Best for:
Postgraduate students or undergraduates seeking independence and apartment living.

3. Accredited Private Student Accommodation Near Wits (2026)

Private accommodation is a popular alternative for students who do not secure university residence placement or prefer monthly rental arrangements.

A. South Point Student Accommodation (Braamfontein)

South Point is one of the largest and most established student housing providers near Wits.

2026 Monthly Pricing (Approximate):

Building	Room Type	Monthly Cost
90 De Korte	Shared / Double Studio	± R5 650
46 De Korte	Shared Room	± R5 650
46 De Korte	Single Room	± R6 105
56 Jorissen	Various units	From ± R5 650
Melridge House	Triple Room	± R5 130
Melridge House	Single Room	± R6 105

Included:

• Wi-Fi

• Water & electricity (fair use)

• 24/7 security

• NSFAS direct billing at many buildings

B. Other Popular Private Residences (2026 Estimates)

These providers are commonly used by Wits students and are located in Braamfontein and Parktown:

Provider	Monthly Cost Range
Apex Studios	± R5 000 – R6 500
Campus Africa	± R4 800 – R6 000
Campus Central	± R5 000 – R6 500
On Empire (Parktown)	± R4 100 – R5 300+
St Davids Place	± R4 500 – R6 500
18 Jorissen Street	± R5 200 (sharing) – R7 000 (single)

Most private providers include:

• Furnished rooms

• Shared kitchens

• Security & access control

• Wi-Fi

• Shuttle services (select locations)

4. Cost Comparison Summary (2026)

Accommodation Type	Cost Basis
Wits catered residence	R86 000 – R102 000/year
Wits self-catering	R55 000 – R117 000/year
Wits Junction	R93 600 – R112 000/year
Private accommodation	R60 000 – R75 000+/year (monthly rent)

5. Important Tips for Wits Students

• Apply for Wits accommodation as early as possible

• Always confirm NSFAS accreditation before signing a lease

• Clarify what is included in rent (utilities, Wi-Fi, laundry)

• Prioritise security and proximity to campus or shuttle routes

• Budget for deposits, groceries, and transport if self-catering

Conclusion

In 2026, Wits students have a wide range of accommodation options, from traditional catered residences to modern apartments and private student housing. Official Wits residences offer convenience and structure, while private accommodation provides flexibility and monthly affordability.

The best choice depends on your budget, year of study, lifestyle preferences, and funding situation. By planning early and understanding your options, you can secure accommodation that supports both your academic success and personal well-being.