Top Suburbs to Invest in Ballarat for 2026
- Loc O'Connell
- Dec 31, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Ballarat continues to attract property investors and home buyers looking for promising opportunities outside Melbourne’s crowded market. With its rich history, growing infrastructure, proximity to Melbourne and Geelong and affordable housing, Ballarat offers a strong potential for capital growth and rental returns. If you plan to invest in Ballarat in 2026, knowing which suburbs offer the best prospects can make a significant difference. This guide highlights the top suburbs to consider, based on current trends, amenities, and future developments.
With our director being born and breed in Ballarat and investing actively since 2013 within the Ballarat market, O'Connell Buyers Advocate is in a unique position with an intimate knowledge of each suburb and real time knowledge of where local homebuyers want to live.
Why Invest in Ballarat Now?
Ballarat’s property market has shown strong growth over 2025. The city benefits from:
Affordable prices compared to Melbourne
Strong rental demand driven by students, families, and workers
Ongoing infrastructure projects improving connectivity and lifestyle. A key project being the $655m Base Hospital redevelopment
A diverse economy including education, healthcare, and manufacturing
These factors make Ballarat a smart choice for investors seeking long-term growth and stable returns. It's no secret that many of Australia's largest buyers agencies are actively purchasing in Ballarat with many of them publicly declaring it as a great opportunity to invest for a $650,000 budget. Take a listen to the podcast link below.
Suburbs to consider:
Wendouree: A Family-Friendly Hub with Great Amenities
Wendouree is one of Ballarat’s most popular suburbs for families and investors alike. It offers a mix of established homes and new developments, attracting a wide range of buyers. Wendouree is approximately 9.6 square kilometres in area being one of the largest suburbs in Ballarat.
We would NOT recommend buying in around 60% of the area of Wendouree due to large concentrated pockets of social housing and lower socio economic pockets. The top 40% is a very different story with many of our owner occupiers buying to raise young families. Local on the ground knowledge is important to get street selection right.
Key features:
Close to Ballarat CBD and Lake Wendouree
Excellent schools including Wendouree Primary and Ballarat Grammar
Large shopping centres like Stockland Wendouree
Parks, sports facilities, and public transport options
Wendouree’s rental market remains strong due to its appeal to families and professionals. Properties here typically offer solid rental yields and steady capital growth.
Below is a visual explainer on areas to avoid for investing in Ballarat.
Alfredton: Growing Suburb with New Developments
Alfredton is a fast-growing suburb located southwest of Ballarat’s CBD. It attracts families and investors due to its spacious homes and expanding amenities.
Reasons to consider Alfredton:
Newer housing estates offering modern designs
Schools such as Alfredton Primary, Ballarat High and Loreto College nearby
Shopping centres and recreational facilities
Easy access to the Western Freeway for commuters
The suburb’s growth trajectory and new developments suggest strong potential for capital gains and rental demand.
Ballarat East: Historic Charm Meets Modern Living
Ballarat East combines heritage charm with modern conveniences. It appeals to buyers who want character homes close to the city centre.
What makes Ballarat East attractive:
Proximity to Ballarat CBD, about 2 km east
Heritage-listed buildings and unique architecture
Cafes, galleries, and cultural attractions
Good public transport and schools
Easy access to freeway to Melbourne
Investors can find properties with character that appeal to tenants seeking a distinctive lifestyle, supporting steady rental income.
What to Look for When Choosing a Suburb in Ballarat
When selecting a suburb to invest in, consider these factors:
Proximity to schools and amenities: Families and renters value convenience.
Access to transport: Good public transport and road links improve appeal.
Development plans: Suburbs with new infrastructure or housing projects often see growth.
Rental demand: Look for areas with strong tenant interest to reduce vacancy risk.
Price trends: Compare median prices and growth history to find value.
Want to find out the rest of our top suburbs to consider? Book a complimentary consultation below.
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