Thinking about investing in property in Geelong, Torquay or Lorne?

These popular coastal and regional markets offer a mix of lifestyle appeal, strong population growth, and improving infrastructure — all of which continue to attract interest from investors. Whether you’re after long-term growth or rental potential, there are opportunities to be found across the Greater Geelong and Surf Coast regions.

In this article, we take a closer look at how the property markets in Geelong, Torquay and Lorne performed in 2025 and what’s expected for 2026.

What did the property market in Geelong, Torquay, and Lorne look like in 2025?

The property market in Geelong and the Surf Coast experienced a multi-speed recovery in 2025, with divergent trends between the urban centre and premium coastal towns. Geelong itself transitioned out of its correction phase, recording modest annual growth of +1.2 per cent by the September quarter. This stability was driven by the affordable northern corridor, where suburbs like Norlane and Corio attracted investors and first-home buyers looking for value.

In contrast, the premium coastal markets of Torquay and Lorne faced headwinds as the Covid boom premium continued to unwind. Lorne saw median house prices soften by approximately 5.0 per cent over the year, while unit values corrected sharply as investors offloaded holiday assets amid rising land taxes. Torquay proved more resilient, managing a slight annual rise of roughly 1.3 per cent, supported by steady demand from owner-occupier families commuting to Geelong or Melbourne.

Rental conditions varied significantly across the region. In Greater Geelong, vacancy rates remained tight—often below 1.5 per cent—which supported yield growth for investors. Conversely, the Surf Coast saw a softening in rental demand as stock levels increased.

Gareth Kent, Director at Preston Rowe Paterson in Geelong, summarised the market's trajectory, stating, "Several market signals indicate our local property market is emerging from the bottom." This sentiment reflected a market finding its footing, supported by infrastructure projects like the Geelong Fast Rail and improving buyer confidence.

Geelong, Torquay, and Lorne property market forecast and price predictions 2026

National property values are projected to reach new record highs in 2026 as interest rate cuts reignite buyer demand, and the Geelong and Surf Coast markets are expected to follow a lagged recovery trajectory. While Melbourne is tipped to rise early in the year, regional hubs like Geelong typically see their upswing six to 12 months later as priced-out city buyers ripple outward. Loan Market and Property Mavens view Geelong as a "sleeping giant" that will wake up as Melbourne's recovery accelerates, particularly in the affordable northern corridor where yields are attractive.

However, the outlook for the Surf Coast (Torquay and Lorne) is more tempered. A key theme for 2026 is the impact of Victoria’s land tax changes, which have lowered the tax-free threshold and increased holding costs for investors. This is pushing some owners to sell holiday homes, keeping listing volumes higher than normal and capping price growth. Westpac forecasts modest growth of around 4 per cent for these lifestyle markets, suggesting the Covid boom has been replaced by a "new long cycle" of steady, sustainable appreciation rather than rapid spikes.

Consequently, 2026 is expected to be a year of opportunity for owner-occupiers to buy into prestigious coastal postcodes without the frenzied competition of previous years. Gareth Kent sums up the sentiment, stating, “We are not about to experience a boom, but a period of prolonged price growth... This will not be a four-year cycle to peak, more likely a five-to-seven-year cycle.” Ultimately, most Geelong and Surf Coast property market predictions point to a year of disciplined, fundamentals-based growth.

What are the best suburbs to invest in Geelong, Torquay, and Lorne in 2026?

We've put together a list of ten of Geelong, Torquay, and Lorne's top investment suburbs for 2026 according to OpenAgent analysis of short-term and long-term growth patterns, listing activity, selling speed and rental yields. 

Manifold Heights, VIC 3218

Manifold Heights is a premium inner-suburb with a median house price of $1,160,000. It has recorded steady annual growth of +4.3 per cent, building on a strong five-year rise of +54.2 per cent. The area is renowned for its leafy streetscapes, heritage architecture, and proximity to the Shannon Avenue shopping strip. While the rental yield is modest at 2.0 per cent, the suburb attracts high-quality tenants and owner-occupiers valuing the lifestyle. Its position near top schools and the Geelong CBD ensures long-term capital preservation.

St Albans Park, VIC 3219

St Albans Park offers excellent value for families with a median house price of $630,000. It has outperformed many local neighbours with +9.6 per cent growth in the past year and +41.6 per cent over five years. The suburb features spacious blocks and easy access to the Bellarine Highway for trips to the beach or city. Investors benefit from a solid rental yield of 4.2 per cent and a median weekly rent of $470. Its affordability and green spaces make it a practical choice for first-home buyers and renters.

Point Cook, VIC 3030

Point Cook’s unit market offers an accessible entry point with a median price of $580,000. It provides a strong rental yield of 5.0 per cent, supported by a median weekly rent of $500. Located near the Princes Freeway, it serves as a key commuter hub between Geelong and the Melbourne CBD. The suburb is anchored by the Point Cook Town Centre and coastal parklands, ensuring consistent demand from tenants. While growth has been steady at +1.8 per cent, the high yield appeals to income-focused investors.

Teesdale, VIC 3328

Teesdale offers a semi-rural lifestyle just 30 minutes from Geelong, with a median house price of $975,000. The market has grown +2.6 per cent over the last year, consolidating a robust five-year rise of +43.1 per cent. Buyers are drawn to the area for its acreage blocks and relaxed country atmosphere. It serves as a retreat for those wanting space without losing access to city amenities. The local general store, school, and recreation reserve form the heart of this tight-knit community.

Sanctuary Lakes, VIC 3030

Sanctuary Lakes is a prestigious lifestyle precinct with a median house price of $1,055,000. It has recorded +3.4 per cent annual growth and +40.7 per cent over five years, reflecting demand for its resort-style amenities. The suburb is built around a Greg Norman-designed golf course and an extensive lake system, offering unique waterfront living. It attracts families and professionals seeking security and recreation within a master-planned environment. The dedicated shopping centre and club facilities add to the exclusivity of the location.

Whittington, VIC 3219

Whittington remains one of the most affordable suburbs in the region with a median house price of $538,750. It has seen +4.6 per cent growth in the past year, offering a low barrier to entry just minutes from the Geelong CBD. Investors are drawn to the rental yield of 4.5 per cent and median weekly rent of $450. The area is undergoing gradual renewal as buyers recognise its convenient location near the Bellarine Highway and Newcomb shopping centres. It represents a strategic option for value-seeking investors.

Norlane, VIC 3214

Norlane offers an entry-level price point of $470,000, making it accessible for first-time investors. The market grew +4.4 per cent over the last year, supported by ongoing urban renewal and infrastructure projects in Geelong’s north. With a rental yield of 4.4 per cent and median rent of $390, it provides steady cash flow. The suburb’s proximity to the Princes Highway and North Shore train station makes it practical for commuters. As gentrification spreads north, Norlane continues to attract attention for its long-term potential.

Charlemont, VIC 3217

Charlemont is a rapidly developing suburb in the Armstrong Creek growth corridor with a median house price of $640,000. It recorded +5.8 per cent annual growth, driven by demand for modern, low-maintenance homes. The area is popular with young families due to its new parks, community centres, and proximity to the coast. Investors benefit from a rental yield of 4.2 per cent and a median weekly rent of $500. Its location offers a balanced lifestyle between the Geelong CBD and the surf beaches of Torquay.

Corio, VIC 3214

Corio provides a high-amenity option in the north with a median house price of $499,000. It has achieved +34.9 per cent growth over five years, proving its resilience and value. The suburb is anchored by the Corio Village Shopping Centre and offers easy access to the Ring Road for Melbourne commuters. With a rental yield of 4.4 per cent and median rent of $410, it remains a reliable performer for investors. The local market is supported by a strong manufacturing and logistics workforce.

Mount Duneed, VIC 3217

Mount Duneed offers contemporary family living with a median house price of $710,000. While growth was flat at +0.7 per cent over the last year, the suburb has established itself as a desirable location near the Surf Coast Highway. It features the Armstrong Creek Town Centre and extensive walking tracks, drawing a steady stream of tenants. The median rent of $540 per week and yield of 4.0 per cent reflect the quality of housing available. It is ideally positioned for those wanting quick access to both Torquay Beach and Waurn Ponds.

Disclaimer: Rankings use OpenAgent’s internal weighted scoring of price growth, days on market, listings and indicative yield. General information only—not financial advice; figures are estimates; past performance is not reliable. Always seek independent advice.