Suburb Overview

Demographics & Housing

• The “Main Place” of Bellville had a population of about 112,507 according to the 2011 Census. 

• Racial composition in 2011: ~50.3% White, ~29.4% Coloured, ~15.7% Black African. 

• First languages: ~65.4% Afrikaans, ~25.2% English. 

• A variety of suburbs sit around Bellville — from more affluent ones on the Tygerberg Hills (north) to more mixed or industrial-adjacent zones south of the N1. 

Property & Housing

• The property landscape ranges from older free-standing houses (which often require maintenance) to newer developments and sectional title apartments closer to the CBD or mall corridors. 

• Because of this diversity, there are options for first-time buyers, move-up homes, and investment properties.

Transport & Location

• Bellville lies approximately ~23 km north-east of Cape Town city centre. 

• Well-connected via the N1 and other arterial routes, and has rail connectivity for commuters. 

• Good proximity to the airport and to the broader Northern Suburbs region.

Safety & Community

Safety

• A recent summary ranked Bellville (and neighbouring Durbanville) at about 7.5/10 for safety by Cape Town standards — meaning it’s relatively safe compared to many suburbs, though not without crime. 

• The note adds that violent crime is comparatively lower, but petty crime such as vehicle break-ins can happen. Locals advise normal urban precautions: securing vehicles, gates, avoiding poorly lit streets at night. 

Community & Vibe

• Bellville has a mixed community profile. Some suburbs are more established and affluent (especially to the north and on the hills); other parts are more affordable and diverse.

• Due to the commercial and industrial components, the area has a more urban/suburban feel rather than purely leafy suburbia.

• Community infrastructure appears well-developed: schools, malls, parks, sports facilities. The presence of neighbourhood watch groups and private security is noted in the safety commentary. 

Neighbourhood Tip

• If you favour a quieter, more “premium” feel, look into the suburbs on the Tygerberg Hill side (north of the N1) or those with more greenery and views.

• For more affordable entry-level housing, some areas south of the N1 or closer to older stock may offer value—but check condition and infrastructure.

Who Should Buy in the Area?

Bellville is well-suited to a range of buyer profiles:

• Commuters: If you work in Cape Town, at the airport or in the Northern Suburbs, Bellville offers good connectivity and reasonable travel times.

• Families: With multiple schooling options (see next section), parks, amenities and suburban infrastructure, it is family-friendly.

• Investors: Because of the diversity of housing stock and relatively affordable properties (in some parts), there are opportunities for rental investment or entry into the market.

• First-time buyers / move-up buyers: The mix of older properties (potentially needing renovation) and newer options means you can buy into the area and upgrade over time.

• Lifestyle buyers: For those seeking a more established suburb with amenities (rather than remote luxury), Bellville offers a balance of urban and suburban living.

However:

• If your priority is a completely tranquil, high-end suburb with large plots and minimal industrial/commercial activity, other suburbs further north (like in Durbanville) might fit more.

• Ensure due diligence: in certain older zones or mixed-use areas, maintenance, traffic or adjacent industrial zones might influence desirability/price.

Education & Schooling

Bellville benefits from a strong school offering across primary and secondary levels, both public and private. A few examples:

• Bellville Preparatory School (independent primary) – “providing quality primary education in a nurturing environment in Bellville”. 

• Westcliff School of Skills – a special school focusing on technical/pre-vocational training. 

• Hoërskool Bellville – public Afrikaans-medium high school, well established. 

• The Settlers High School – public English-medium, co-ed high school on the Bellville border. 

Additionally, a wide list of schools in Bellville can be found via Schools4SA. 

Key Takeaway: For families, Bellville offers credible schooling pathways. As always, check the specific school catchment, language medium (Afrikaans vs English), extra-mural offerings, and commute from your location.