This article focuses on the opportunities for the development of single-industry towns, formed during the period of industrialization, which have their own significance in the history of the country. Moreover, we looked at the example of Zhanatas, the centre of Sarysu district, located in Zhambyl region. The study discussed the history of single-industry towns that emerged during the period of industrialization, the socio-economic problems in these towns, the requirements of a post-industrial society and opportunities for sustainable development of single-industry towns. The natural and geographical potential of Zhanatas town was analyzed, and geospatial advantages and disadvantages were identified. The physical-geographical position and geo-environmental potential of the city were analyzed, the current state of infrastructure and socio-economic problems of the city were determined. A set of measures aimed at improving the complex socio-economic, urban planning, environmental problems common to many small towns and single-industry towns in Kazakhstan have been developed. A group of factors directly affecting the development of the city has been identified and a multifactor scenario for the sustainable development of Zhanatas has been proposed. These conclusions in the direction of modernization of the social sphere, diversification of the economy, environmental management and management of natural hazards underlie the opportunities for sustainable development of the city.