The urbanisation of the global population is observed to be occurring at an unprecedented rate. This phenomenon has further intensified pressures on public health, infrastructure, and resources, resulting in increased energy consumption, waste generation, pollution, and carbon emissions, among many others. Hence the urgency and imperativeness of achieving sustainable cities and communities, a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11). However, multifaceted factors have been observed to hinder the realisation of this goal among developed and developing countries as the 2030 target beckons. This research study aims to identify the causal factors hindering the attainment of sustainable cities and communities in South Africa from the perspective of construction professionals. The study employed the quantitative research method. A structured questionnaire was administered to practising and registered South African construction industry (SACI) construction professionals. The data obtained was analysed using descriptive and exploratory factor analysis. Research findings identified and presented twenty-two potential obstacles to achieving sustainable cities and communities. Professionals, policymakers and relevant stakeholders will be able to facilitate targeted and collaborative interventions to address these challenges by providing a comprehensive understanding of these barriers. It is believed that this step will also advance the agenda of sustainable cities and communities in other sectors of the economy as the year 2030 draws closer.