Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Colac

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Colac suburb profile

Colac is a charming regional town located in Victoria's Western District, approximately 150km southwest of Melbourne. Known for its picturesque setting near Lake Colac, the town offers a blend of natural beauty and rural charm. Colac serves as a hub for the surrounding agricultural region, with a strong community spirit and a range of amenities. The town features historic architecture, local shops, and cafes, providing a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors. With its proximity to the Great Otway National Park and the Great Ocean Road, Colac is an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of the region.

Colac property market performance

Current median dwelling price$488,500Past 3 months

Property growth-6.7%Past 12 months

Colac’s property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, particularly in the housing sector. House values have increased by 8.7%, with the current median house price at $515,000. In contrast, the unit market has remained stagnant, with no change in median unit value. Over the last 12 months, 57 houses and 6 units have been sold, indicating a stronger demand for houses.

Houses in Colac are selling relatively quickly, with a median of 35 days on the market, while units take longer, with a median of 57 days. This suggests a more competitive market for houses compared to units.

The rental market in Colac has seen significant changes, with house rents increasing by 11.6% over the last 12 months, reaching an average of $480. Unit rents have also risen, albeit more modestly, by 2.8%, with an average rent of $370, reflecting a steady demand for rental properties.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$515KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
8.7%-22.1%
Sold
Past 3 months
576
Median days on market
Past 12 months
3557
Average rent
Past 12 months
$480$370
Change in rent
Past 12 months
11.6%2.8%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Colac demographics

Colac, located in Victoria's Western District, is a charming regional town known for its rich agricultural heritage and close-knit community. With a population of 9,243, Colac offers a peaceful lifestyle amidst picturesque landscapes, including the nearby Otway Ranges and Lake Colac. The median age of 44 suggests a mature community, with many families and long-term residents enjoying the town's relaxed pace and strong sense of community.

Housing in Colac is characterized by a significant proportion of home ownership, with 39.8% of properties owned outright and 28.8% owned with a mortgage. This reflects a stable community with deep roots in the area. The rental market, comprising 31.3% of properties, provides options for those seeking flexibility, including newcomers and those transitioning to home ownership.

Family life is central to Colac, with couple families with children making up 33.5% of households, while 43.6% are couple families without children. One-parent families account for 20.3%, highlighting the suburb's diverse family structures. The town's amenities, including schools, parks, and community centers, cater to families and contribute to Colac's reputation as a welcoming and supportive environment for residents of all ages.

Colac infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Colac is experiencing steady investment in community infrastructure, with Colac Otway Shire continuing to upgrade local facilities, parks and civic spaces, which supports the town’s appeal for families and retirees.[2][6] The town’s location on the shore of Lake Colac and proximity to the Otways and coastal attractions underpins demand from lifestyle buyers, with local tourism and associated services providing a stable employment base that can help sustain property values over time.[2][4]

Council planning emphasises balanced residential growth around established services and transport links, reinforcing Colac’s role as a regional hub and potentially supporting long-term capital growth.[2][6] Existing rail and road connections to Geelong and Melbourne remain key drawcards for commuters and regional workers, and there are currently no widely publicised major new transport or school projects that would significantly alter property dynamics in the short term.[2][6] Overall, there are no single transformative developments at present, but incremental improvements to amenities and strategic planning are gradually enhancing livability and market stability in Colac.

Colac rental market trends

The rental market in Colac has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 11.6% over the past year to $480 per week, while unit rents have seen a smaller rise of 2.8% to $370 per week. As a regional hub with a strong community and access to natural attractions, Colac offers appealing rental opportunities for both investors and residents seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Suburbs near Colac

Some popular suburbs near Colac include:

How does Colac compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Colac’s median house price is 28.0% lower than Elliminyt’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Colac have grown 7.2% higher than in Winchelsea.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Colac are selling 52.1% faster than in Elliminyt.

Common questions about Colac

  • Is Colac a nice place to live?

    Colac is a delightful place to call home, offering a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this charming regional town provides a perfect blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Families will find Colac particularly appealing, with its welcoming atmosphere and a variety of amenities that cater to all ages. The town is known for its friendly vibe, where neighbors know each other, and community events are a regular feature, fostering a close-knit environment.

    Living in Colac means having easy access to a range of amenities, including local shops, cafes, and schools, which are all conveniently located. The town's proximity to natural attractions like the Great Otway National Park and Lake Colac offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the town's appeal as a family-friendly location.

    While Colac offers a serene and stable lifestyle, it does come with some trade-offs. The town lacks the hustle and bustle of a larger city, which might not suit those seeking vibrant nightlife or extensive shopping options. However, the tranquility and community spirit more than make up for it, providing a supportive environment for families and retirees alike. The existing rail and road connections to Geelong and Melbourne offer convenience for commuters, although there are no major new transport projects on the horizon.

    Overall, Colac is a wonderful place to live for those who appreciate a relaxed pace of life, a strong community, and the beauty of nature. Its steady investment in infrastructure and strategic planning ensures that it remains a stable and appealing choice for residents looking for a balanced lifestyle.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Colac?

    Living in Colac can be seen as relatively affordable when compared to the broader Victorian state averages. The current median house price in Colac is $515,000, which is significantly lower than many other Victorian suburbs, especially those closer to Melbourne. This makes purchasing a home in Colac more accessible for those with an average income. Renting is also fairly reasonable, with the average rent for houses being $480 per week and units at $370 per week, offering a range of options for different budgets.

    When comparing the local income data, the median total household income in Colac is $1,108 per week. In contrast, the average wage in Victoria is approximately $105,000 per year, which translates to about $2,019 per week before tax. This suggests that while the local incomes might be lower than the state average, the cost of housing in Colac is also lower, helping to balance out the affordability for residents.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Colac, it offers a more budget-friendly option compared to many other parts of Victoria. The lower housing costs make it a viable choice for those looking to stretch their dollar further, while still enjoying the amenities and lifestyle that this regional area provides.

    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.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Colac a good place to invest?

    Colac is showing promising signs as a potential investment suburb, particularly for those interested in the housing market. Over the past 12 months, the median house value in Colac has increased by 8.7%, indicating a healthy demand and appreciation in property values. This growth suggests that the suburb is attracting interest, possibly due to its regional charm and affordability compared to larger city areas.

    Rental yields in Colac are also noteworthy, with house rents increasing by 11.6% over the past year. This rise in rental prices highlights a strong demand for rental properties, making it an attractive option for investors seeking consistent rental income. Although the unit market hasn't seen the same level of growth, with no change in median unit values and a modest 2.8% increase in rents, houses remain the standout investment choice in Colac.

    Overall, Colac offers a compelling opportunity for investors, particularly in the housing sector. Its recent growth in property values and rental yields, combined with its regional appeal, make it a suburb worth considering for those looking to invest in a stable and potentially rewarding market.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Colac

There are 22 real estate agents in Colac, but they don’t all deliver the same results.

Some agents have a much stronger presence in the suburb, with just 5 agents handling around 64.1% of all sales in the past year.

Commission rates in Colac typically range from 2% to 2.75%. Comparing agents—including what they charge, what’s included, and how they structure their fees—is not only important when choosing an agent, the right structure can help ensure your chosen agent is motivated to achieve the best possible result.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.