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

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

Geo Page

Lara suburb profile

Lara is a charming suburb located in Victoria, approximately 18km north-east of Geelong and 60km south-west of Melbourne. Known for its semi-rural atmosphere, Lara offers a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The suburb is surrounded by natural attractions, including the You Yangs Regional Park, which provides opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. Lara's local amenities include schools, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal location for families and retirees. With convenient access to major transport routes, Lara combines the tranquility of country living with the convenience of city proximity.

Lara property market performance

Current median dwelling price$609,500Past 3 months

Property growth+9.8%Past 12 months

Lara’s property market has shown positive growth over the past 12 months, with house values increasing by 3.7%. The current median house price stands at $740,000. Although unit sales are minimal, with only 3 units sold, their values have surged by 15.9%, indicating a potential rise in demand for units.

Sales activity for houses has been robust, with 138 houses sold in the past year. Houses are selling relatively quickly, with a median of 32 days on the market, while units are moving even faster at 26 days, despite the limited number of sales.

The rental market in Lara has also seen growth, with house rents increasing by 3.6% and unit rents by 7.1% over the last 12 months. The average rent for houses is $570, while units average $450, reflecting a healthy demand for rental properties in the area.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$740KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
3.7%15.9%
Sold
Past 3 months
1383
Median days on market
Past 12 months
3226
Average rent
Past 12 months
$570$450
Change in rent
Past 12 months
3.6%7.1%

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

Lara demographics

Lara, a suburb located in Victoria, is known for its family-friendly environment and growing community. With a population of 19,014, Lara offers a blend of suburban tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals alike. The median age of 37 suggests a mature community with a mix of young families and established residents who appreciate the suburb's balance of lifestyle and convenience.

The suburb's housing market is characterized by a high rate of home ownership, with 31.2% of properties owned outright and 46.7% owned with a mortgage. This indicates a stable community with a significant number of long-term residents. The rental market, comprising 22.1% of properties, provides options for those seeking flexibility, including young professionals and families transitioning into home ownership.

Family life is a central aspect of Lara, with 47.5% of households being couple families with children and 36.2% being couple families without children. The presence of one-parent families, making up 15.2% of the community, highlights the suburb's inclusive nature. Lara's proximity to Geelong and Melbourne, combined with its local amenities, parks, and schools, makes it a desirable location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with easy access to both city and country experiences.

Lara infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Lara continues to benefit from its strategic location between Geelong and Melbourne, with the Princes Freeway and rail access supporting commuting appeal and long-term demand. Its proximity to the You Yangs and other open-space amenities also helps underpin lifestyle-driven buyer interest.

No major new redevelopments or transport projects were identified in the available results that would materially change Lara’s property outlook at this time. The suburb’s established school, local services, and family-friendly character remain key supports for steady housing demand.

Lara rental market trends

The rental market in Lara has experienced moderate growth, with house rents increasing by 3.6% over the past year to $570 per week, while unit rents have seen a more significant rise of 7.1% to $450 per week. With its strategic location and ongoing development, Lara continues to attract renters and investors seeking a balance of affordability and growth potential.

Suburbs near Lara

Some popular suburbs near Lara include:

How does Lara compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Lara’s median house price is 23.3% higher than Corio’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Lara have grown 10.6% higher than in Lovely Banks.
  • Unit price growth: Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Lara have grown 4.4% higher than in Norlane.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Lara are selling 54.3% faster than in North Shore.
  • Selling speed for units: Properties in nearby Corio are selling 42.3% faster than in Lara.
  • Investment considerations: In Lara, the rental yield for house is 9.2% lower than the Melbourne average, while the rental yield for units is 22.9% lower.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Lara have grown 31.8% lower than the average rate of growth across Melbourne.
  • Unit price growth:Over the past 12 months, unit prices in Lara have grown 13.1% lower than the average rate of growth for units across Melbourne.

Common questions about Lara

  • Is Lara a nice place to live?

    Lara is a delightful suburb that offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment, making it a wonderful place to live. With its semi-rural charm and strong sense of community, Lara provides a serene lifestyle that is perfect for families seeking a balance between suburban tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities. The suburb is known for its lush natural surroundings, including the nearby You Yangs Regional Park, which offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking, adding to the suburb's appeal for nature enthusiasts.

    The vibe in Lara is relaxed and welcoming, with a community-oriented atmosphere that makes it easy for families to settle in and feel at home. The suburb is well-equipped with essential amenities, including schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities, ensuring that residents have everything they need close by. Safety is generally not a major concern, contributing to the suburb's appeal as a secure place to raise a family.

    While Lara offers a fantastic lifestyle, there are some trade-offs to consider. The semi-rural setting means that nightlife and entertainment options are limited compared to more urban areas. However, the proximity to Geelong and Melbourne provides easy access to a wider range of cultural and entertainment options, making it convenient for those who enjoy occasional city outings. Additionally, while public transport options are available, commuting to Melbourne may require some planning due to the distance.

    Overall, Lara is a charming suburb that offers a peaceful and community-focused lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for families and those seeking a quieter pace of life. Its combination of natural beauty, local amenities, and proximity to larger cities ensures that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds, making it a truly nice place to live.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Lara?

    Living in Lara can be considered relatively affordable compared to many other suburbs in Victoria. The current median house price in Lara is around $740,000, which is quite reasonable when you consider the higher prices in Melbourne's inner suburbs. However, it's important to note that there is no median unit price available, which suggests limited options for those looking for apartments.

    When it comes to renting, the average rent for houses in Lara is about $570 per week, while units average $450 per week. These rental prices are generally lower than what you might find in Melbourne, making Lara an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living arrangements. The median total household income in Lara is $1,969 per week, which aligns well with the Victorian state average full-time wage of approximately $105,000 per year. This suggests that living in Lara could be manageable for individuals and families earning around the state average.

    Overall, if you are thinking of living in Lara, you'll find that it offers a more budget-friendly lifestyle compared to many urban areas in Victoria. With its reasonable housing prices and rental costs, Lara presents a great opportunity for those looking to balance affordability with a comfortable lifestyle.

    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 Lara a good place to invest?

    Lara is emerging as a promising suburb for investment, particularly for those interested in units. Over the past 12 months, the median unit value in Lara has surged by an impressive 15.9%, indicating strong demand and potential for capital growth. This is complemented by a healthy 7.1% increase in rent for units, suggesting a robust rental market that could provide steady income for investors.

    While the growth in median house values has been more modest at 3.7%, it still reflects a stable upward trend, which is appealing for those seeking long-term investment stability. The rental market for houses has also seen a positive change, with a 3.6% increase in rent, further supporting the suburb's investment appeal.

    Lara's strategic location, with easy access to both Geelong and Melbourne, enhances its attractiveness for renters and buyers alike. The suburb offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it a desirable place to live. Overall, Lara presents a balanced investment opportunity with strong growth in the unit market and steady performance in the housing sector, making it a worthwhile consideration for investors.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Lara

In Lara ,120 agents are actively selling property, but a small number do the heavy lifting. Just 5 agents handled 42.2% of all sales in the past year, giving them a strong presence and deep experience in the local market.

Commission rates usually sit between 2% and 2.5%. Comparing agents and understanding what’s included in their fee structure can help you find the right mix of service, value, and motivation—without compromising on outcomes.

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.