Town by Town Snapshot: St Leonards

THE size of St Leonards is approximately 28.5sqkm. It has 13 parks covering nearly 9.9 per cent of the total area.

The population of St Leonards in 2016 was 2,480 people. By 2021, the population was 3,542 showing a population growth of 42.8 per cent in the area during that time.

Positioned on the northern edge of the Bellarine Peninsula, St Leonards has carved out a distinct identity as a relaxed coastal township with strong ties to the bay.

Located about 25 minutes from central Geelong, the town offers a quieter alternative to larger coastal centres while remaining within commuting distance of key regional hubs.

Set along the shoreline of Port Phillip Bay, St Leonards is defined by its foreshore, safe swimming beaches and expansive coastal walking tracks.

The calm waters and open horizons shape daily life, supporting a lifestyle centred on outdoor recreation, boating and community activity.

Unlike some busier seaside towns, St Leonards has retained a low-rise, small-town feel, with its streets and public spaces reflecting a slower coastal pace.

Historically a holiday destination, St Leonards has gradually transitioned into a permanent residential community.

Steady population growth and new housing estates have expanded the town beyond its original core, blending established holiday homes with contemporary family residences.

Development has largely respected the area’s coastal character, maintaining generous spacing and a strong connection to open space.

Local shops, primary schools and community facilities meet everyday needs, while nearby Drysdale and Ocean Grove provide access to broader retail, health and education services.

Road connections link residents to Geelong and the wider Bellarine Peninsula, making the town increasingly attractive to commuters seeking a coastal base.

The St Leonards property market offers a mix of older beach houses, modern builds and newer homes on larger suburban blocks.

Compared with many Bellarine Peninsula locations, the suburb has remained relatively attainable, drawing interest from first-home buyers, downsizers and those seeking a permanent sea-change.

With its bayfront setting, evolving housing profile and steady growth, St Leonards continues to strengthen its position as a liveable coastal town within the Greater Geelong and Bellarine region.

The predominant age group in St Leonards is 60-69 years.

Households in St Leonards are primarily childless couples and are likely to repaying $1,400-$1,799 per month on mortgage repayments.

In general, people in St Leonards work in a professional occupation. In 2021, 73.3 per cent of the homes in St Leonards were owner-occupied compared with 71.6 per cent in 2016.