Ballarat, located in the central highlands region of Victoria, boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a relaxed lifestyle.
The city’s suburbs, each with its unique character and offerings, are often a topic of discussion among those considering a move to Ballarat or investing in property in Ballarat.
From the beautifully historic residential neighbourhoods of Soldiers Hill, to bustling Ballarat Central, we’ll dive into the best and worst suburbs in Ballarat, and help you make a decision on your next move.
Best Suburbs in Ballarat
The best suburbs in Ballarat are synonymous with low crime rates, high amenity value, and easy access to services. If you’re considering a move to Ballarat from Melbourne or elsewhere, these suburbs might catch your eye:
Soldiers Hill
- Median house price: $600,000
- Median unit price: $450,000
- Median rent price: $480 per week
- Median gross yield: 4.6%
Located at a walking distance from central Ballarat, Soldier’s Hill stands out with its beautiful Victorian and Edwardian period homes. Its proximity to the CBD, combined with its great schools and tree-lined streets, makes it a desirable suburb in Ballarat for families and professionals alike.
Check out more properties in Soldiers Hill VIC 3350. or if you are looking for more options? Check out the various properties in Ballarat.
Delacombe
- Median house price: $650,000
- Median unit price: $430,000
- Median rent price: $490 per week
- Median gross yield: 4.4%
New housing estates and a great mix of amenities mark Delacombe as a suburb on the rise. Families are drawn to its new housing developments, great schools, and nearby shopping centres.
With great infrastructure in place and major shopping precincts nearby, it promises a comfortable lifestyle.
Check out more properties in Delacombe VIC 3356.
Wendouree
- Median house price: $630,000
- Median unit price: $440,000
- Median rent price: $470 per week
- Median gross yield: 4.5%
Please note that these prices are as of October 2023 and may change over time.
Wendouree, home to the picturesque Lake Wendouree, offers both recreational spots and a thriving cafe culture. his suburb is perfect for those wanting a lifestyle upgrade, especially when considering the best place to live in Victoria.
It provides a lifestyle that many would find desirable, especially when compared to regions like Wollongong, which has its mix of both commendable and challenging suburbs.
Check out more properties in Wendouree VIC 3355.
Alfredton
- Median house price: $640,000
- Median unit price: $420,000
- Median rent price: $480 per week
- Median gross yield: 4.7%
Please note that these prices are as of October 2023 and may change over time.
On the Ballarat side, a bit farther from the hustle and bustle, lies Alfredton. Known for its easy access to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Alfredton offers larger blocks, newer estates, and a closer connection to nature while still being in close proximity to central Ballarat’s amenities.
Check out more properties in Alfredton VIC 3350.
Worst Suburbs in Ballarat
While Ballarat offers a plethora of suburbs that provide bang for your buck, some have faced challenges, particularly concerning crime rates and socio-economic factors:
Ballarat Central
Median house price: $300,000
Central Ballarat, while bustling with activity, has shown higher crime rates,specially when compared to some of the worst suburbs in Victoria. Particularly with 14,293 offenses per 100,000 people as of 2022. The socio-economic challenges and fewer amenities have made certain areas of Ballarat Central less desirable.
Wendouree (specific areas)
Median house price: $460,000
Despite its many attractions, certain parts of Wendouree, especially Wendouree West, have faced socio-economic challenges. With a crime rate of 14,996 offenses per 100,000 population, it’s crucial to research and understand the diverse nature of this suburb before making a decision.
Sebastopol
Median house price: $360,000
With a history rooted in mining and heavy industry, Sebastopol has faced its share of socio-economic challenges. Crime rates, standing at 12,998 offenses per 100,000 population, coupled with issues like soil contamination, have placed it on this list.
Ballarat East
Median house price: $350,000
While not as challenging as others, Ballarat East’s crime rate of 8,287 offenses per 100,000 people and its socio-economic factors still present hurdles for potential residents.
Alfredton (specific areas)
Median house price: $640,000
While many parts of Alfredton offer a tranquil life close to nature, certain areas have a crime rate of 5,228 offenses per 100,000 population. It’s essential to look at every suburb in its entirety and understand the nuances.
Need to be further to the coast? Check out our round up of the cheapest places to live in Australia by the beach.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re an Aussie native or a newbie looking to invest in property, understanding the real estate terrain is essential. Especially for first-timers, understanding the market is crucial; here’s a guide on buying your first home in Victoria.
Remember to always consider factors like crime rates, access to amenities, and the overall vibe of the suburb before making a decision.
Ballarat, located in the central highlands region of Victoria, boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a relaxed lifestyle.
The city’s suburbs, each with its unique character and offerings, are often a topic of discussion among those considering a move to Ballarat or investing in property in Ballarat. This article dives into the best and worst suburbs in Ballarat, aiding those contemplating their next move.
Suggested reading: Want to dive deeper? Check out our comprehensive guide on the best suburbs in Australia.
Please note that these prices indicated are as of October 2023 and may change over time.
FAQ The Best and Worst Suburbs in Ballarat VIC
What is the best part of Ballarat to live in?
The best part of Ballarat to live in depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular and desirable suburbs include:
- Soldiers Hill: A charming and peaceful neighbourhood with stunning Victorian and Edwardian period homes, as well as a variety of schools, churches, and shopping options.
- Wendouree: A vibrant suburb with a large number of families, students, professionals, and labourers. It offers unbeatable property value, a relaxed lifestyle, and rapid infrastructure development.
- Ballarat East: A leafy and family-friendly suburb with a mix of older and newer homes, as well as a variety of schools, parks, and shops.
- Lake Wendouree: A beautiful suburb located on the shores of Lake Wendouree, with easy access to a variety of recreational activities, including walking, cycling, and boating.
What are the most expensive suburbs in Ballarat?
The most expensive suburbs in Ballarat tend to be those that are located close to the city center and offer a variety of amenities and services. Some of the most expensive suburbs include:
- Lake Gardens
- Lake Wendouree
- Buninyong
- Mount Helen
- Nerrina
- Newington
- Lucas
- Ballarat North
What suburbs are involved in crime in Ballarat?
No suburb is immune to crime, but some suburbs in Ballarat have higher crime rates than others. Some of the suburbs with higher crime rates include:
- Ballarat North
- Sebastopol
- Redan
- Mount Clear
- Alfredton
It is important to note that these are just statistics, and not all residents of these suburbs will experience crime. There are many factors that can contribute to crime rates, such as socioeconomic status, unemployment, and access to education and services.
Is Ballarat a good place to raise a family?
Yes, Ballarat is a good place to raise a family. It offers a variety of family-friendly amenities and services, including schools, parks, and playgrounds.
It is also a relatively safe city, with lower crime rates than many other major cities in Australia. Additionally, the cost of living in Ballarat is relatively affordable, making it a good option for families on a budget.
What area in Victoria has the highest crime rate?
The area in Victoria with the highest crime rate is the Melbourne metropolitan area. This is likely due to the fact that Melbourne is the largest and most densely populated city in Victoria.
However, it is important to note that crime rates can vary significantly within the Melbourne metropolitan area. Some suburbs have much higher crime rates than others.
