Lara, located just southwest of Melbourne, is a vibrant suburb known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent amenities, and convenient transport links to the city. This suburban locale combines the charm of a close-knit community with easy access to natural reserves and urban conveniences. In this article, we explore the best residential areas in Lara, detailing their unique characteristics, amenities, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Lara Central
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Lara Central is the bustling heart of the suburb, where residents can enjoy a plethora of shops, cafes, and services. This area is ideal for families and professionals looking for convenience and community vibe.
Characteristics of the Lara Central
* Culture: A lively community with regular events and markets
* Transportation: Excellent public transport options with train access to Melbourne
* Services: Grocery stores, cafes, schools, and parks
* Environment: Vibrant and welcoming
Housing Options in the Lara Central
Single-family homes, Townhouses, Units
Average Home Prices in the Lara Central
* Buying: $600,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,200/month
Lara Lake
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Known for its picturesque parklands and peaceful living, Lara Lake offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. It is especially popular with families who appreciate outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Lara Lake
* Culture: Community-centric with a focus on nature and leisure
* Transportation: Car recommended, but public transport available
* Services: Local parks, sporting facilities, and schools
* Environment: Tranquil and family-friendly
Housing Options in the Lara Lake
Single-family homes, Spacious blocks
Average Home Prices in the Lara Lake
* Buying: $650,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
Manor Lakes
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Located on the outskirts of Lara, Manor Lakes boasts modern housing in a rapidly developing area. This suburb attracts families and first-home buyers looking for new builds.
Characteristics of the Manor Lakes
* Culture: Emerging community with new developments
* Transportation: Adequate public transport and road access
* Services: Shopping centres, schools, and childcare facilities
* Environment: Modern and evolving
Housing Options in the Manor Lakes
Newly built homes, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Manor Lakes
* Buying: $550,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $1,800/month
Lara West
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Lara West offers spacious living alongside the Goulburn River, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty.
Characteristics of the Lara West
* Culture: Outdoor activities and a close-knit community
* Transportation: Public transport is available; driving is recommended
* Services: Local shops, parks, and schools
* Environment: Relaxed and nature-friendly
Housing Options in the Lara West
Large block homes, Farmhouses
Average Home Prices in the Lara West
* Buying: $700,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $1,700 – $2,200/month
Moorabool Park
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Moorabool Park is designed for families who value spacious homes and proximity to recreational facilities. The suburb is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent schools.
Characteristics of the Moorabool Park
* Culture: Family-oriented with a focus on education and recreation
* Transportation: Good public transport links, car commuting preferred
* Services: Schools, parks, and community centres
* Environment: Friendly and active
Housing Options in the Moorabool Park
Townhouses, Single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the Moorabool Park
* Buying: $600,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,100/month
Patterson Lakes
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Patterson Lakes is an emerging residential area with modern amenities and great connections to the Freeway, making it an attractive option for commuters. The suburb has a growing population of young families and professionals.
Characteristics of the Patterson Lakes
* Culture: Diverse community with varied amenities
* Transportation: Excellent transport links to Melbourne and Geelong
* Services: Shopping centres, schools, and parks
* Environment: Modern and lively
Housing Options in the Patterson Lakes
New homes, Apartments, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Patterson Lakes
* Buying: $650,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,200/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Lara:
The best residential areas in Lara include Lara Central, Lara Lake, Manor Lakes, Lara West, Moorabool Park, and Patterson Lakes.
Lara West and Moorabool Park are particularly family-friendly, offering spacious homes and access to schools and parks.
The average cost of a home in Lara ranges from $550,000 to $850,000, depending on the suburb and property type.
Yes, Lara has good public transport options, including train services to Melbourne. However, a car is also recommended for convenience.
Lara Central boasts the highest concentration of shops, cafes, schools, and services.
Lara offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, units, and newly built apartments.
Yes, suburbs like Manor Lakes and Lara West attract many first-home buyers due to more affordable housing options and new developments.
The average rental prices in Lara range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month, depending on the area and property type.
Yes, Lara has numerous schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it a suitable choice for families and active individuals.
Lara has a friendly and vibrant community atmosphere, with plenty of events and activities for residents to engage in and enjoy.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Lara:
Lara is an appealing suburb for homebuyers and renters alike, offering a range of residential areas that cater to various lifestyles. Whether you prefer the convenience of Lara Central, the tranquility of Lara Lake, the modern developments in Manor Lakes, or the spacious living in Lara West, there is no shortage of options. As the suburb continues to grow and develop, Lara is set to become an even more attractive place to call home, providing an ideal blend of community spirit, accessibility, and a family-friendly environment.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.