The Free State is one of those provinces that creep up on you. Many people have an image of endless fields, long roads, and small towns in mind when they think of it, but after spending a few minutes there, they start to understand the slower pace of life, the beauty of the countryside, and the feeling of community. Things here are not rushed. Traffic is less, sunsets are larger, and people do still wave goodbye.
I’ve always thought that the Free State was the ideal place for those who don’t like it too noisy or too pricey, and yet very good for places to visit. There’s something for everyone and a variety of lifestyles and budgets to choose from within the province, whether it’s a peaceful artistic village, a bustling city, or an outdoor town by the river.
Here are a few of the best places to live in the Free State:
Best Places to Live in the Free State
1. Bloemfontein
2. Clarens
3. Parys
4. Bethlehem
5. Welkom
5 Best Places to Live in Free State, South Africa
1. Bloemfontein – The Practical and Comfortable City
Bloemfontein is likely to be the best choice in the province if you’re looking for a more relaxed alternative to Johannesburg or Cape Town. Bloemfontein, nicknamed the “City of Roses,” exists in the world today, but also has a relaxed feel.
The first thing you will notice about Bloemfontein is how easy things feel in the City. The traffic is surprisingly light compared with the bigger towns in South Africa. It actually takes 15 minutes to drive here, not 15 minutes.
The additional security and tranquility of estates like Woodlands Hills Wildlife Estate or Bella Donna Gated Community are favored by many families.
Popular residential areas include:
- Langenhoven Park
- Dan Pienaar
- Shellyvale
- Universitas
- Pentagon Park
Many families prefer estates such as Woodlands Hills Wildlife Estate or Bella Donna Gated Community because of the extra security and peaceful surroundings.
Budget
- Apartment rentals: Around R5,000-R9,000 monthly
- Family homes: R1.2 million-R3 million+
- Luxury estate homes: R4 million+
What Makes It Great
Bloemfontein has:
- Good schools and universities
- Modern shopping malls
- Reliable hospitals
- Restaurants and cafés
- Sports facilities
- Quiet suburbs
The city is also known as a friendly one. Many people even say that Reddit people are friendly, and the city is so laid back in comparison to other big cities, too.
Lots of unobstructed space was something I appreciated personally. The neighbourhoods are not so cramped, and still many homes have good gardens.
Some buildings in the vicinity of the estates might contain:
- Walking trails
- Wildlife views
- Clubhouses
- Parks for children
- Cycling routes
There are even free breakfast packages available in some Bloemfontein guesthouses for guests staying long-term or business travellers.
2. Clarens – The Artistic Mountain Escape
Clarens is certainly up towards the top of my list when it comes to the most beautiful places to live in the Free State, if I had to choose.
The town of Clarens has been dubbed the “Jewel of the Free State,” and it really is! The town is nestled among the mountains and sandstone cliffs, creating a peaceful and creative atmosphere.
When walking through Clarens, it is one thing to walk through the town! The streets are lined with art galleries, the sidewalks are lined by cafés, and the morning air is fresh.
Popular hotel stays and housing options are:
- Clarens Retreat
- Clarens accommodation at ‘The Gate’ Guesthouse’
- Rooiberg View Clarens
- Knock Out View Clarens
Budget
- Small homes: Around R900,000-R1.8 million
- Luxury mountain homes: R3 million+
- Guesthouse accommodation: R700-R2,500 per night
The lifestyle was my favorite part of Clarens. Get up, have coffee at a small coffee shop, hike around Golden Gate Highlands National Park, and enjoy a dinner by a fireplace at a restaurant.
Facilities include:
- Art galleries
- Hiking trails and biking trails
- Craft breweries
- Boutique shops
- Coffee houses
- Horse riding facilities
Many guesthouses serve a free breakfast, and some have patios with a view of the mountains that you can sit in for hours.
Clarens is often mentioned by Reddit users as one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, particularly for nature lovers. We received one comment, even saying, “Best place to live in SA.”
The only drawback is that there can be high tourist numbers on weekends as people from Gauteng often visit.
3. Parys – The Riverside Lifestyle Town
Parys is very different from Bloemfontein and Clarens. It is more relaxed and outdoorsy, particularly as it is located next to the Vaal River.
The town is now a very popular destination for those who are looking to live a peaceful life amongst nature, but remain close to Gauteng. It’s not a sleepy river town! Adventure activities, cafés, markets, antique stores, and outdoor sports.
Some interesting locations to be found around town:
- Parys Suspension Bridge
- Earth Adventures
- Sandbar@casacararesort
- Waterfall Estate
Budget
- Small homes: Around R700,000-R1.5 million
- Riverfront properties: R2 million+
- Rentals: R4,500-R10,000 monthly
What Makes It Special
Parys is ideal for:
- Weekend lifestyle living
- Fishing and boating
- Outdoor adventures
- Retirement living
- Small business owners
Facilities include:
- River resorts
- Restaurants and pubs
- Outdoor adventure companies
- Farmers markets
- Golf estates
Some establishments on the river have free breakfasts or braai facilities for locals and guests staying more than a day or two.
One thing you will enjoy is sitting by the river watching people kayak around at sunset. It’s the small-town tranquility that many people are seeking these days.
4. Bethlehem – The Balanced Family Town
Bethlehem is one of the bigger towns in the eastern part of the Free State, and is very down-to-earth, family-friendly, and surrounded by lovely farmland and mountains.
Bethlehem seems less touristy and more residential than Clarens. It offers shopping centers, educational institutions, hospitals, and businesses, but with a relaxed Free State vibe.
Budget
- Family homes: R900,000–R2 million
- Rentals: Around R5,000–R12,000 monthly
Why Families Like It
Bethlehem offers:
- Good schools
- Reduce crime in some neighbourhoods
- Shopping malls
- Sports clubs
- Close by mountain attractions
The weather is also nice. There is a considerable variation in temperature between the seasons, with winters being cold but summers not particularly hot when compared to the hotter regions of South Africa.
I’ve noticed many people living here are fond of the slower pace of life. It has a sense of balance and security, but is not overly detached.
5. Welkom – Affordable Living with Space
Although not as picturesque as Clarens, if it’s about being affordable, then it’s worth looking at Welkom as well.
The town of Welkom was established around the gold mining industry and is famous for its broad roads, large housing estates, and relatively inexpensive property.
Budget
- Homes: Around R600,000-R1.5 million
- Rentals: R4,000-R9,000 monthly
Welkom is good for:
- Budget-conscious families
- Retirees
- First-time homeowners
- Facilities include:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Shopping malls
- Sports complexes
Conclusion
Coastal provinces get a lot more attention than the Free State, but that’s part of what makes it great. Things are less hectic, more budget-friendly, and more relaxed here. From the artistic vibes of Clarens to the practicality of Bloemfontein, the peacefulness of Parys to the family-friendly Bethlehem, and the affordable lifestyle of Welkom, each has a distinct lifestyle that is authentic and solid.
The most impressive thing about the province is the balance it provides. However, you can still enjoy beautiful views, good facilities, welcoming communities, and a lower cost of living without the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The Free State can truly be a place to call home for those looking for a slower, more comfortable life with space for them to breathe.
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