WHEN it comes to affordable urban living in Harare, two high-density suburbs often top the list: Highfield and Glen View.For first-time homebuyers, young families and informal business owners looking to put down roots in the capital, these areas offer a mix of affordability, community and accessibility.But which suburb gives you better bang for your buck? According to recent research by realtor, Property.co.zw, both areas hold promise — but offer different value propositions depending on buyer priorities.Price and AffordabilityHighfield is generally the cheaper of the two, with house prices ranging between US$18 000 and US$35 000. Rent for a modest two-bedroom home hovers around US$120 to US$200 per month. Stands are rare, as most of the land is already built up.Glen View, slightly more expensive, sees house prices between US$20 000 and US$40 000, and rent ranging from US$150 to US$250 per month. Stands are occasionally available, priced around US$15 to US$30 per square metre, offering greater flexibility for those looking to build or expand.Verdict: Highfield wins on entry price, while Glen View provides more development options.Infrastructure and ServicesAccording to Property.co.zw, Highfield — one of Harare’s oldest suburbs — struggles with aging infrastructure. Roads are riddled with potholes, water shortages are common, and formal retail options are limited. However, residents have developed strong community coping systems, and informal trade remains vibrant.Glen View boasts slightly better infrastructure. Its roads are in relatively good condition, and the suburb is home to the bustling Area 8 Furniture Complex, a major economic driver. Access to private schools and clinics is improving, although water and electricity supplies remain inconsistent.Verdict: Glen View edges ahead due to better infrastructure and growing commercial services.Lifestyle and CommunityHighfield offers a deep sense of history and community. It has produced several political and cultural luminaries and is popular with older generations. Its proximity to the CBD and strong kombi transport links make it a convenient choice for city workers.Glen View, by contrast, attracts younger families and small business owners. The area is dynamic, entrepreneurial, and still growing. Transport links via kombis and mushikashikas are equally robust.Verdict: Highfield appeals to heritage seekers; Glen View is ideal for the enterprising.Growth and Investment PotentialProperty.co.zw’s report highlights Highfield’s high population density and limited space for new development. Still, the area remains attractive for buy-to-renovate strategies, rental income, and long-term family occupancy due to its proximity to central Harare.Glen View, on the other hand, continues to expand, with opportunities for in-fill housing and stronger rental demand. Its informal business ecosystem could benefit from future policy reforms, unlocking new streams of formal income.“Glen View is a great entry-level market with long-term income potential. Highfield is good for value seekers and legacy properties,” said a local agent quoted in the Property.co.zw analysis.Verdict: Glen View has more growth upside, while Highfield offers low-cost investment potential.Which One Should You Choose?Choose Highfield if:●You want the lowest home prices in Harare.●You’re eyeing a fixer-upper or legacy property.●You value historical roots and tight-knit community life.Choose Glen View if:●You’re looking for slightly newer homes and active commerce.●You’re investing for rental yield or long-term resale.●You believe in the future of informal sector growth.Final wordHighfield and Glen View are more than just affordable housing markets — they’re living, breathing communities filled with potential. Whether you’re looking to live, rent out, or invest, your decision should reflect your priorities: price, location, lifestyle, and long-term returns.As Property.co.zw puts it: “These suburbs represent Harare’s resilience and evolution — where affordability meets ambition.”
