Leopold, VIC 3224

Leopold appears to have become a convenient solution for the Labour Government to meet its housing targets, often at the expense of thoughtful planning and long-term sustainability.

The suburb suffers from a lack of essential infrastructure, particularly in public transport. Bus services are infrequent, often unreliable, and inadequate for a growing population.

Law enforcement presence is minimal, with the community relying solely on a single, overstretched police station in Ocean Grove (Bellarine). Local police officers are under-resourced and burnt out, making it difficult to address increasing crime issues such as vandalism, thefts and assaults.

There are no local job opportunities, with residents largely dependent on travelling to Geelong or even Melbourne for employment.

The local primary school is overcrowded and struggling to keep up with the demands of population growth.

House prices are declining due to the rapid construction of volume-built homes, often without any coherent planning.

Overall, Leopold no longer offers anything particularly appealing to prospective buyers. Back in 2012, it had a coastal escape feel now, it feels more like just another Wyndham Vale.

My experience living in Leopold over a two-year lease has been quite underwhelming. The Gateway Plaza offers only the bare essentials, such as Coles, Kmart, and Bunnings. While the parks and reserves are pleasant for the occasional stroll, they lack any real wow factor.

Public transport is very limited, with buses running only once an hour—just to cover the short 10-minute trip to Geelong CBD, and that’s if they arrive on time. Employment opportunities in Leopold are quite poor, especially for those in their early 20s. Additionally, there are no standout restaurants in the area.

Rent for a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house with a garage ranges between $480 and $510 per week, which feels unreasonable given the lack of convenience and amenities. There are better places to rent at that price point, such as Geelong West, Belmont, or Lara.

I've rented in Leopold since 2018, and I can't believe how much it has deteriorated. The level of antisocial behaviour from some of my neighbours has been shocking.

I've witnessed people rummaging through my recycling bin for bottles and cans, youth offenders egging houses, and even harassing innocent parents with young children just for kicks. The sheer hostility towards anything associated with the City of Greater Geelong is absurd—some people seem to lose their minds over the sight of a simple council label or anything with words.

What’s even more ridiculous is how these narcissistic junkies portray themselves as victims, posting cringe-worthy content in their pathetic Facebook groups. The situation has become unbearable, and it’s disappointing to see how much the community has declined.

Not worth the $480 per week in rent, for lame view of Corio Bay.

Honestly, I don't get Leopold. It's only 10 minutes from Geelong CBD, yet it feels like I've entered a third-world country. Public transport options are poor, with hourly buses, if they even show up. The local shopping centre, Gateway Plaza, is unmaintained, feels dirty, and is unsatisfying on every visit. It’s trashed by the locals, and the ferals that have plagued the suburb seem to have become the main demographic. I live on a street where neighbours whinge and whine over the most pathetic and ridiculous things instead of addressing real crime.

Employment opportunities are scarce, with the only source of income for many being fraudulent welfare payments instead of actual work.

It’s just an overrated expansion of Whittington, with no prospects for investment or future growth, just the government's dumping ground to meet housing targets.

I have never lived in such a dreadful area plagued by entitled individuals who hit your car at Gateway Plaza without leaving a note and who fail to clean up after their dogs have defecated on your nature strip. This area is in decline; you’d be better off living in Corio at least the people there have common sense.

I’ve lived in many places, but Leopold takes the top spot as the worst. The suburb is overrun with antisocial behaviour—bogan troublemakers loiter around parked cars, vandalise homes, and trash the Gateway Plaza.

Even the so-called "highlights" of the area, like the Bellarine Rail Trail and Gateway Sanctuary, have been ruined. Some individuals have deliberately set fires, destroying the beautiful vegetation and causing pointless damage.

I’ve previously lived in St Kilda, and despite its reputation, at least efforts were made to maintain cleanliness and safety. In contrast, Leopold feels neglected, with no serious attempts to improve its condition.

If you’re considering living here, my advice is to think twice. Now is the best time to sell and leave before property values decline further. For those seeking a family-friendly environment, Lara is a far better choice.

Purchased a home in Leopold in 2022 to escape the busy life in Melbourne. At first glance, I loved this small suburb with its beautiful parks, bay views, and country vibe. But living here turned out to be a real awakening.

This suburb is plagued by entitled bogan rats who seem to find justification for egging houses and cars, damaging property, reckless burnouts, theft, and junkies. I'm not surprised by other reviews saying people are fed up with this nonsense.

Avoid this wretched hive of scum and villainy! An that's putting it politely.

I purchased my first home in Leopold in 2011 and initially enjoyed the coastal atmosphere and quiet surroundings. However, over time, the area has deteriorated significantly. Unfortunately, my experience has been marred by ongoing issues, including property damage, threats to my safety, and repeated harassment from problematic neighbours. The increasing prevalence of antisocial behaviour has severely impacted the community’s livability.

In my case, I’ve had to endure a junkie neighbour who disrupts the peace at all hours, along with reckless individuals engaging in burnouts, property vandalism, and other disruptive antisocial behaviour. It’s disappointing to see how the area has changed.

At this point, I consider myself fortunate to be in a position to have sold while property values remain reasonable and relocate to a more civilised area.

Leopold has been a comfortable and convenient place to live, offering a quiet suburban lifestyle while still being close to Geelong and the coast. The community feel is strong, with friendly neighbours, local parks, and easy access to shops at Gateway Plaza. The nearby walking trails and wetlands are great for getting outdoors, and the commute to Geelong is a breeze.

For buyers, Leopold is a great option for first-home buyers and investors looking for affordable properties with solid growth potential. With new developments and family-friendly amenities, it’s a good mix of value and lifestyle.

Leopold offers a fantastic variety of homes and a welcoming small-community feel. I purchased a beautiful home in this peaceful suburb and couldn’t be happier. It’s conveniently close to Leopold Sporting Club, and Gateway Plaza provides all your essentials—including a Kmart. The area also features stunning walking tracks and parks, perfect for walking my dog. I highly recommend Leopold to anyone looking for a great place to live!

Purchased a charming 8-year-old home in Grassland Grove, and I’m loving it as a first-home buyer. The area offers plenty of activities for kids, including beautiful parks and access to the Bellarine Rail Trail. The local shopping centre is small but well-kept, providing essential amenities. Plus, being just a 10-minute drive from Geelong CBD makes it a convenient and well-connected place to live.

Escaped the busy Melbourne lifestyle and purchased my first home with my partner in Leopold. I'm loving the laid-back regional vibe, with beautiful parks and stunning views of the bay. It has all the essentials at Gateway Plaza, plenty of community activities and clubs to join, and numerous childcare/daycare options for my child. I strongly recommend it to any first home buyer and young families.

Great, quiet suburb with all your basics. The local primary school is fantastic, offering plenty of outdoor activities for the kids. I'm a first home buyer and loving it here!

Leopold is an excellent choice for first home buyers, offering affordable and spacious housing options with great value for money. Located just 10 minutes from Geelong and close to the Bellarine Peninsula’s beaches, it combines urban convenience with coastal charm. The suburb boasts modern amenities, including Gateway Plaza, schools, parks, and walking trails, making it ideal for families. With easy access to Geelong, Melbourne, and local wineries, Leopold provides a well-connected, vibrant community perfect for starting your homeownership journey.

Purchased my first family home in Leopold last year and am loving it. There are plenty of parks and activities for my kids to ride their scooters, and The Gateway Plaza offers everything you need. Nice suburb.

Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, I relocated to this quiet, family-friendly suburb and purchased my first home as a first-time buyer. I’ve been enjoying the nearby Gateway Sanctuary and Bellarine Rail Trail, which offer a perfect blend of nature and recreation. The local shopping centre meets all essential needs, even featuring a Kmart for added convenience. With a great variety of existing homes on the market, Leopold is a suburb I highly recommend.

Rented in Leopold for two years. Not much employment opportunities in the area. Solely reliant on driving as public transport is poor. Overpriced rent $480 to $600 but seems to be a demand in the area. I would the rate the crime about a medium-high range I had my car vandalised and ransacked by thieves on numerous occasions. Overall I would recommend this area to more elderly people.

Great coastal suburb with all your essentials. Fantastic variety of investment properties. Public transport is lacking with only buses to Geelong CBD. Overall a fast populating suburb with plenty of opportunities.

As a pensioner who moved here to retire and enjoy my new lifestyle home, I was disgusted by the toxic community. After one year of living here, I have experienced abuse and harassment from neighbours with whom I have no personal connection. If you're looking for a pleasant retirement community, I suggest looking elsewhere. I won’t let anyone else make the same mistake I did by purchasing solely based on the appeal of a beautiful retirement house.

I rented in Leopold for two years near the Dohorty Street shops area. At first, I thought it was quiet and convenient; however, I was very wrong. Crime and drugs are a significant problem in this part of Leopold. Rent is also highly overpriced compared to other suburbs. The local primary school is overcrowded, and the Gateway Plaza offers very limited options. I would look at better alternatives for single parents.

Pretty average regional suburb with minimal amenities, poor public transport, and limited employment and work opportunities. Rent is overpriced, ranging from $480 to $600, to live in this isolated pocket of regional Victoria. This suburb is more suited to retirees and the elderly.

After renting in Leopold for a 12 month lease my experience was average. You have your basic shops at Gateway Plaza. Still solely reliant on driving as public transport is lacking. Standard crime for a regional area I would avoid Leopold North. I honestly didn't think the price for $480 per week was worth it.

As a respected member of the Geelong community and a proud Tesla driver, I took a drive with one of my many dates from Geelong to Queenscliff. Whilst passing through the isolated eyesore expansion of Whittington, I went to Gateway Plaza for some Hi Sushi. Upon returning to my Tesla, I saw that the local degenerates were admiring my ride. I noticed damage to my driver's side door. My date told me that a geriatric in a Toyota Land Cruiser had committed this atrocity. Never again will I lower myself to visit such a stale and boring place.

I've truly given up on Leopold. The filth that Leopold has attracted in recent years has brought nothing but ghetto and feral behaviour. You don't need a Netflix subscription to be entertained here; just looking out your window can be amusing enough. All the decent middle class civilised people are being driven out of the suburb, making way for these Whittington rats. This has been my experience renting here for 3 years in Leopold North.

Built my first home in Grassland Estate in 2013 and loved the peaceful country vibe. Unfortunately in recent years it's attracted some unsavoury characters. Unregistered rooming houses becoming the new dominant accommodation. No decent public transport options other then hourly buses to the Geelong CBD. Overall suburb cant keep up with demand. I'm so happy I sold. Now I can start a new chapter and retire in peace.

As a retiree who has lived in Leopold for 24 years, I've now thrown in the towel. Leopold has become a haven for degenerates. The amount of anti social behaviour occurring is now uncontrollable. The area has become Whittington. I used to love going for a morning bike ride on the Bellarine Rail trail instead I'm approached by feral rats asking me for a cigarettes. Government to busy building housing without any amenities like a police station or train station. After finally selling my home its bitter sweet. I'm glad I wont be here long enough to see a place I used to call home burn.

Living in Leopold Suburb has been an eye-opening experience, but not in a good way. I had high hopes for this area, but the reality has been disappointing.

Firstly, crime is a major issue here. Break-ins, thefts, and vandalism seem to be everyday occurrences. It’s unsettling to feel unsafe in your own home, and the local authorities don't seem to be doing enough to curb these activities. Walking outside after dark is simply out of the question.

The level of anti-social behavior is another major drawback. The neighborhood is plagued by loud parties, public disturbances, and loitering. It's almost impossible to enjoy a quiet evening or get a good night’s sleep without being interrupted by some form of commotion.

Low employment rates are evident in Leopold. There are very few job opportunities, and this has led to a sense of hopelessness among many residents. The economic stagnation is palpable, and it's disheartening to see so many people struggling to make ends meet.

Public transport is another significant downside. The services are infrequent and unreliable, making it difficult to commute to work or access other parts of the city. This lack of connectivity exacerbates the already high unemployment rates and contributes to the overall sense of isolation.

Overall, Leopold Suburb has failed to live up to expectations. The combination of high crime rates, rampant anti-social behavior, low employment, and poor public transport makes it a challenging place to live. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for a safe and peaceful community.

After renting in Leopold for a year, I am so glad I moved. I would never want anyone else to endure what I experienced. My car and house were egged by feral youths, and my car was repeatedly broken into. This isolated suburb has very poor public transport, forcing residents to rely solely on driving. As a young man in my early 20s trying to finish my degree and work, the opportunities here were nonexistent. I lived in the Leopold North area, classed as the Grassland Estate, and I can't recommend it to anyone, not even my worst enemy.

Moved to Leopold from Melbourne a year ago. I love the walking trails and parks always something new to explore. Leopold Gateway Plaza is small little shopping complex for your basic needs. Unfortunately public transport is very poor considering its only 10 minutes from Geelong CBD. Overall it's developing suburb and has alot of potential for first home buyers and developers.

Great variety of homes for sale new and old at affordable prices. Loving the country vibe.

Bought my first home in Leopold recently and loving this peaceful suburb. Got alot of the basics Coles, Bunnings and Aldi and 10minutes to Geelong. I strongly recommend Leopold.

Purchased a beautiful property in Leopold and loving the regional laid back lifestyle. I recommend the Grassland Estate for your next investment.

Leopold is very isolated part of regional Victoria. Its public transport access is terrible, you are solely reliant on driving your own car. The shopping centre is average at best. Youth crime is currently plagueing the new estates with excessive vandalism and anti social behaviour. The average rent here is between $480 - $510 which I find ridiculous.

Rapidly growing suburb that cant handle the demand of the population. Leopold lacks alot of basic amenities such as public transport access, restaurants and venues and a police station. It's a very isolated place to live.

As the title states Leopold isn't suitable for the young and the living. Low employment opportunities and overpriced rent. Share houses are becoming the normal just to pay for a average view of Corio Bay. Location is terrible and lacks public transport access. In comparison with other suburbs closer to the city rent is the same. There is no longer a middle class in this broken property market. Michael Burry,Steve Eismen and Warren Buffett are right.

Lived around the Leopold area for few years now. Ive experienced the highs and lows and would like to share my honest review. Firstly avoid Leopold North it has alot unsavoury characters and ferals. The local shopping centre is basic, but lacks in variety of eateries and retail shops. Public transport is poor with only hourly buses to the city. Local footy club is friendly and competitive. Area is more suitable for geriatrics and hard to find local jobs and pay $450 - $500 in rent.

Moved to Leopold in 2021 in the Grassland Estate. At first it seemed like a quiet family orientated area. Unfortunately it's plagued with ferals damaging, trespassing and loitering around your property constantly. It's like living in social housing. Glad I moved to Corio where people are more civilised.

After living in Leopold for a year, I was disappointed about the lack of basic amenities for a suburb only 10 minutes away from Geelong. Its very isolated part of regional Victoria and more suitable for the elderly. I wouldn't recommend renting here if your looking for employment and in your early 20's.

I love Leopold. I have rented in different parts. Even one recently burnt down, was a really easy gofundme if you catch my drift. Now living only 5 minutes from my inlaws and other relatives I feel so superior. Thank you insurance!

Lived in Leopold for 2-3 years great place to explore and beautiful views of the bay. Rent is bit steep around $450 -$500 and public transport is average. Development has slowed due to current cost of living but overall great suburb.

This suburb has become a ghetto. Ferals loitering the streets, breaking into your cars and property. Constant vandalism to public amenities and the local shopping center. Hoons using residential streets as a race track. Leopold has become a very unsafe suburb to live and raise a family.

Lived in Leopold for most of my life. I strongly suggest buying/renting in the Leopold South area, such as the Estuary Estate. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of public transport options apart from hourly buses to the city. Overall, it's still a developing suburb but lacks in certain areas, although it boasts beautiful scenery and parks.

Decent new rental properties but they come at a ridiculous cost. Not much night-life venues/clubs in the area. This suburb makes you feel like your living in a massive retirement village or I like to call it geriatric park.

Surprised by recent negative reviews. We moved here a year ago and found the general community to be friendly and safe compared to inner city where we use to live in Geelong. Main postive is definitely the close proximity to the beach and still close to Geelong for work. Would definitely recommend as a place to live for families of all types.

Having lived in the area before it was a bustling little suburb, it’s amazing to see how far Leopold has come. From an unusual half-way town to a fully self-contained area, there is little to leave for.

Within a short car trip to the Bellarine, with an abundance of wineries (come on COVID, time to go now), the beautiful Gateway Reserve and of course, the grand lake Connewarre – not only are creature comforts ticked off, but so is nature.

Growth has remained steady but not out of control. Sales properties have increased 2.9% with the average price reaching $525,000. Rentals have also increase by 3.8% - making the median return $380 per week. With these prices, Leopold is afford for renters and home buyers – and there are plenty of new, or near new, homes up for grabs. A large majority of renters are aged between 20 – 29, whilst a majority of homeowners are around 40 years old. This makes sense when you look at the split between rental properties (18%) and owner occupy properties (80%).

Sophie Kennedy-Rush – Property Manager Geelong

Level 1 MarkPetterwood reviewed Leopold, Victoria Dec 29, 2010 .5/5Excellent “Great for Family and Kids - Still affordable great properties”
Leopold is known as the Gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and it is one of the larger communities on the Bellarine Peninsula. I have lived here since 1989 and have seen it grow fantastically and in the right direction over the oast 20 years. It has excellent primary school and easy access to the schhols in Geelong or the schools in Ocean Grove or Drysdale. It is only a 10 minute drive to both of these towns and buses from the schools service Leopold thoroughly.

The property prices in Leopold are very good when you consider that Well inder $400,000 will get you a very good 4 bedroom home on a good block of land. A large mjority of the land in Leopold has been developed so it will not over grow and stretch it's infrastructure.

We have good sporting facilities with a top rate Football and Cricket Club that is right next door to the Netball and Tenniss Club. We have an excellent Bowling Club that is attached to the Leopold Sportsmans Club. The Sportsman Club offers excellent value fasmily meals in a very family friendly environment.

We have good Pizza shops that do eat in and take away. We have several very good fish and chip shops. The Gateway shopping centre has a Coles supermarket and a great variety of other shops. Shops include a good cafe, chinese, red rooster, hair dresser, butcher, baker etc.

The streets are clean and leafy in the older suburbs. I am a real estate agent in the local area and would not choose to live anywhere else. Like to know more about Leopoldgive me a call on 0413 771044.

Leopold is known as the Gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and it is one of the larger communities on the Bellarine Peninsula. I have lived here since 1989 and have seen it grow fantastically and in the right direction over the oast 20 years. It has excellent primary school and easy access to the schhols in Geelong or the schools in Ocean Grove or Drysdale. It is only a 10 minute drive to both of these towns and buses from the schools service Leopold thoroughly.

The property prices in Leopold are very good when you consider that Well inder $400,000 will get you a very good 4 bedroom home on a good block of land. A large mjority of the land in Leopold has been developed so it will not over grow and stretch it's infrastructure.

We have good sporting facilities with a top rate Football and Cricket Club that is right next door to the Netball and Tenniss Club. We have an excellent Bowling Club that is attached to the Leopold Sportsmans Club. The Sportsman Club offers excellent value fasmily meals in a very family friendly environment.

We have good Pizza shops that do eat in and take away. We have several very good fish and chip shops. The Gateway shopping centre has a Coles supermarket and a great variety of other shops. Shops include a good cafe, chinese, red rooster, hair dresser, butcher, baker etc.

The streets are clean and leafy in the older suburbs. I am a real estate agent in the local area and would not choose to live anywhere else. Like to know more about Leopoldgive me a call on 0413 771044.

Leopold is 10mins from Geelong and 10mins from Ocean Grove beach. It is a community of around 7500 people with a large percentage being families, retirees and couples. A large primary school with excellent facilities and progrmas houses around 700 students. There is no high school but there is transport to schools within 10 mins. There are two quality Kinders which are ran by the Geelong Kindergarten Association. Daycare facilities vary with a daycare centre and popular family daycare facilites. Leopold has two main arterials - Bellarine Highway and Portarlington Rd which allow commuting to Geelong easy, especially if you take the Port Rd. You will easily arrive in Geelong in 10mins as there is only 3 sets of traffic lights to deal with if you live on the north side. Leopold has a great Sportsmans club which is ideal if you are a lawn bowler, like to have bistro meals, play the pokies or have a flutter on the horses/dogs. There is a major supermarket (Coles) with numerous specialty stores housed on the west side of Leopold with two smaller shopping strips on both the north and south sides. Plenty of sporting families are catered for with Leopold home to football, netball, tennis, ballroom dancing, jazz ballet and tap, calisthenics, karate, over 50's fitness, personal training, skate park, lawn bowls, and probably more.
The crime rate in Leopold is hardly existent. Makes you feel safe at night!! A 24 Service station is available if you need to make a midnight dash for munchies. Doctors are aplenty in Leopold with at least 3 separate practices in various locations all housing numerous GP's. There is also a dental surgery, and physio.
Take-away includes pizza x2, fish and chips x2, Chinese, and Red Rooster. For a coffee catch up there is a great Panache Crepery.
Writing this late at night so may have forgotten a few things, however, Leopold is a great place to live and bring up a family.