Geelong, located southwest of Melbourne, is the second-largest city in Victoria and offers a vibrant blend of urban lifestyle and coastal living. With its rich history, cultural institutions, and proximity to the Great Ocean Road, Geelong provides a unique living experience. This article explores the best residential areas in Geelong, detailing their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Newtown
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Newtown is one of Geelong's most desirable suburbs, known for its charming period homes and vibrant culture. It is popular among families, professionals, and young creatives. The area boasts excellent schools, a thriving arts scene, and numerous parks.
Characteristics of the Newtown
* Culture: Diverse community with local galleries and cafes
* Transportation: Well-connected via public transport, including trains and buses
* Services: A range of boutiques, schools, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Family-friendly atmosphere with a village feel
Housing Options in the Newtown
Victorian houses, Townhouses, Units
Average Home Prices in the Newtown
* Buying: $700,000 – $1,100,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Highton
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Highton is renowned for its scenic views of the Barwon River and offers a suburban lifestyle with close proximity to the Geelong CBD. This area is particularly appealing to families and retirees, with spacious properties and great schools.
Characteristics of the Highton
* Culture: Strong community vibe with local events and markets
* Transportation: Good access to public transport and major roads
* Services: Local shopping centres, schools, and health facilities
* Environment: Peaceful and family-oriented
Housing Options in the Highton
Family homes, New developments, Older character homes
Average Home Prices in the Highton
* Buying: $650,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $1,800/month
Geelong West
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Geelong West features a blend of old-world charm and a modern lifestyle, making it ideal for young professionals and families. With easy access to the city and various amenities, it's a desirable location for those looking for convenience.
Characteristics of the Geelong West
* Culture: Trendy cafes, restaurants, and a strong community spirit
* Transportation: Excellent public transport options, close to CBD
* Services: High-quality schools, parks, and shopping centres
* Environment: Vibrant and eclectic
Housing Options in the Geelong West
Heritage cottages, Modern apartments, Terraced houses
Average Home Prices in the Geelong West
* Buying: $600,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $1,300 – $1,700/month
Barwon Heads
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Barwon Heads is a picturesque coastal suburb known for its stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle. It is highly sought after for its proximity to the Great Ocean Road and is popular among those seeking a holiday home or a permanent seaside residence.
Characteristics of the Barwon Heads
* Culture: Strong surfing and fishing community with local markets
* Transportation: Limited public transport, best explored by car
* Services: Local shops, schools, and cafes
* Environment: Laid-back and scenic
Housing Options in the Barwon Heads
Beach houses, Modern units, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Barwon Heads
* Buying: $900,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,000/month
Corio
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Corio offers a more affordable housing option while still providing access to amenities and transport links. This suburb is ideal for first-home buyers and families looking for more space without breaking the bank.
Characteristics of the Corio
* Culture: Community-focused with local events and sports clubs
* Transportation: Good access to public transport and major roads
* Services: Shopping centres and schools nearby
* Environment: Family-friendly and accessible
Housing Options in the Corio
Single-family homes, Units, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Corio
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,100 – $1,500/month
Lara
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Lara, located just outside Geelong, is fast becoming a popular choice for families and first-home buyers due to its affordability and great community feel. The suburb offers a mix of residential developments and natural beauty.
Characteristics of the Lara
* Culture: Growing community with access to local wildlife
* Transportation: Train station providing easy access to Geelong and Melbourne
* Services: Shopping centre, schools, and parks
* Environment: Suburban and relaxed
Housing Options in the Lara
New estates, Family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Lara
* Buying: $500,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,600/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Geelong:
The best suburbs in Geelong include Newtown, Highton, Geelong West, Barwon Heads, Corio, and Lara.
Highton and Lara are both highly regarded for their family-friendly environments, featuring excellent schools and parks.
Corio and Lara are both excellent choices for first-home buyers looking for more affordable properties.
Geelong West and Newtown are well-connected via public transport and provide easy access to the Geelong CBD.
Barwon Heads is the premier coastal suburb in Geelong, offering stunning beaches and a relaxed lifestyle.
Barwon Heads generally has the highest median house prices due to its desirability as a coastal location.
The rental market in Geelong is competitive, with popular suburbs often achieving high rental yields.
Yes, Newtown has several highly rated schools and educational institutions that are sought after by families.
The average house prices can range significantly based on the suburb, from around $400,000 in Corio to over $1,500,000 in Barwon Heads.
Geelong offers a mix of property types, including single-family homes, townhouses, units, and beachfront properties.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Geelong:
Geelong is a dynamic city with a variety of residential areas catering to diverse lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're seeking the vibrant community spirit of Newtown, the family-oriented atmosphere in Highton, or the serene coastal lifestyle of Barwon Heads, Geelong has something to offer everyone. With its close proximity to Melbourne, rich cultural scene, and array of services, Geelong is undoubtedly an appealing choice for homebuyers and renters alike. As you explore the suburbs, consider your lifestyle needs, proximity to work and school, and the unique charm of each area to find the perfect place for you in Geelong.
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.