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Ararat suburb profile

Ararat is a picturesque regional city located in Victoria, approximately 200km west of Melbourne. Nestled at the foothills of the Grampians, it serves as a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of the region. Ararat is known for its rich history, with heritage buildings and the iconic J Ward Museum offering glimpses into its past. The city boasts a strong sense of community, with local festivals and events celebrating its diverse culture. With a mix of rural charm and modern amenities, Ararat provides a welcoming environment for families, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle amidst nature.

Ararat property market performance

Property growth-6.5%Past 12 months

Ararat's property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 8.4%, bringing the median house price to $430,000. However, the unit market has remained stagnant, with no change in median value, reflecting limited activity in this sector.

Sales activity has been relatively active, with 62 houses and 9 units sold over the past 12 months. Houses are selling faster, with a median of 45 days on the market, compared to 56 days for units, indicating stronger demand for houses.

The rental market in Ararat has seen a notable increase in house rents, which have risen by 7.7% over the last 12 months, while unit rents have experienced a modest increase of 1.5%, suggesting a stronger demand for rental houses in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$430KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
8.4%-21.3%
Sold
Past 3 months
629
Median days on market
Past 12 months
4556
Average rent
Past 12 months
$420$335
Change in rent
Past 12 months
7.7%1.5%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

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Ararat demographics

Ararat, located in the heart of Victoria, is a charming regional town known for its rich history and scenic landscapes. With a population of 8,500, Ararat offers a peaceful lifestyle, attracting families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life. The median age of 45 reflects a mature community, with many residents enjoying the town's blend of rural charm and essential amenities.

The housing market in Ararat is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 42.1% of properties owned outright and 30.5% owned with a mortgage. This stability is appealing to families and long-term residents who value the security of home ownership. Rental properties make up 27.4% of the housing market, providing options for those who prefer flexibility or are new to the area.

Family life is central to Ararat's community, with couple families with children comprising 32% of households and couple families without children making up 46.6%. One-parent families account for 19.2%, highlighting the suburb's inclusive and supportive environment. The median total household income of $1,216 per week reflects the town's affordability, making it an attractive option for those looking to balance cost of living with quality of life.

Ararat infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Ararat continues to benefit from its role as the administrative centre for the wider Rural City, with ongoing investment in health, education and community facilities supporting its position as a key regional service hub.[3][5] Strong rail and road links via the Western and Pyrenees Highways, together with passenger rail connections to Ballarat, Melbourne, Adelaide and the Port of Portland, underpin commuter access and freight movement, which is likely to support long-term residential and industrial demand.[3][5]

Council is actively promoting Ararat as a gateway to the Grampians region, leveraging tourism assets such as local museums, heritage sites and nearby parks, which may help sustain short-stay accommodation demand and broader investor interest.[4][5] Recent rollout of free public Wi-Fi across key economic, recreation and cultural precincts in the township signals a focus on digital infrastructure and town-centre activation, which can enhance amenity and appeal for both residents and businesses.[5]

Ararat rental market trends

The rental market in Ararat has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 7.7% over the past year to $420 per week, while unit rents have seen a smaller rise of 1.5% to $335 per week. This steady growth reflects Ararat's appeal as a regional hub, offering a balanced lifestyle with potential for future investment opportunities.

Suburbs near Ararat

Some popular suburbs near Ararat include:

How does Ararat compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Ararat’s median house price is 16.4% higher than Stawell’s.
  • House price growth: Property prices in nearby Stawell have risen 5.0% more than in Ararat over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in nearby Stawell are selling 6.7% faster than in Ararat.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in Ararat are selling 43.4% faster than in Stawell.

Common questions about Ararat

  • Is Ararat a nice place to live?

    Ararat is a delightful place to call home, offering a harmonious blend of rural charm and modern conveniences. This picturesque regional town is nestled at the foothills of the Grampians, providing residents with breathtaking natural landscapes and a serene environment. The community vibe in Ararat is warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of togetherness that is evident in the local festivals and events that celebrate its diverse culture. Families find Ararat particularly appealing due to its peaceful lifestyle and the availability of essential amenities such as schools, shops, and healthcare facilities.

    Safety is generally not a major concern in Ararat, contributing to its reputation as a family-friendly suburb. The town offers a variety of activities for residents to enjoy, from exploring the nearby parks and heritage sites to indulging in the local cafes and shops. While Ararat may not have the bustling nightlife of a larger city, it compensates with its tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with nature. The trade-off for living in such a serene setting is the distance from Melbourne, which may require a longer commute for those working in the city. However, the strong rail and road links make travel manageable.

    For families, Ararat provides a nurturing environment with a focus on community and quality of life. The town's investment in digital infrastructure and community facilities enhances its appeal, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and a high standard of living. While it may not offer the fast-paced lifestyle of urban areas, Ararat's charm lies in its ability to offer a peaceful retreat with a strong community spirit and access to stunning natural beauty.

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  • Is it expensive to live in Ararat?

    Living in Ararat offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to many other parts of Victoria. The median house price in Ararat is currently around $430,000, which is significantly lower than the prices you'll find in Melbourne or other major Victorian cities. This makes Ararat an attractive option for those looking to buy property without breaking the bank.

    When it comes to renting, the average rent for houses is about $420 per week, while units average around $335 per week. This is quite reasonable, especially when you compare it to the rental prices in larger urban areas. The median total household income in Ararat is $1,216 per week, which suggests that housing costs are relatively manageable for local residents.

    Considering the state average wage in Victoria is approximately $95,000 per year, living in Ararat can be considered affordable. The lower property prices and rental costs mean that residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial pressures often associated with living in more expensive areas. If you're thinking of living in Ararat, you'll find that it offers a more budget-friendly alternative while still providing the charm and community feel of a regional town.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
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  • Is Ararat a good place to invest?

    Ararat presents an interesting opportunity for property investors, especially those looking for a mix of stability and growth potential. Over the past year, the suburb has seen a notable 8.4% increase in median house values, indicating a strong demand for housing. This growth is complemented by a 7.7% rise in house rents, suggesting that the rental market is also thriving. This combination of rising property values and rental income makes houses in Ararat an appealing option for investors seeking both capital appreciation and rental returns.

    While the unit market in Ararat has remained stable with no change in median values over the last 12 months, the slight increase in unit rents by 1.5% suggests a steady demand. This stability might appeal to investors who prefer a lower-risk investment with consistent rental income. Overall, Ararat offers a balanced investment landscape, with houses showing strong growth potential and units providing a more stable, income-focused option. The suburb's ongoing development and community appeal further enhance its attractiveness as a long-term investment destination.

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Choose the right real estate agents in Ararat

Choosing the right real estate agent in Ararat can have a big impact on your sale. While there are 16 real estate agents working in the suburb, but just 5 of them were responsible for 82.1% of all property sales over the past year, showing a strong footprint and track record in the area.

Commission rates typically range from 2.1% to 3.25%, depending on the agent and what’s included. Comparing both performance and fee structures can help you find someone who's well-suited to your needs, and set them up for a successful result.

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