Travis lake overlook view of the central Texas hill country outside of Austin Texas

The Best Lakes to Live On in The US

Living on a lake in the US means more than just postcard-worthy views. It often brings a sense of serenity, a strong sense of community, and access to recreational lifestyles many dream of. From the mountainous West to the charming Midwest and the warm South, the best lakes to live on in the US offer more than summer escapes—they provide ideal year-round homes with good schools, growing economies, and stable property values.

After evaluating dozens of lakes based on livability, real estate trends, access to amenities, and lifestyle opportunities, these are the seven best lakes to live on in the US.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Waterfront homes among the pine trees along the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, Nevada.

Best for: Luxury mountain living, world-class recreation, and no state income tax (on the Nevada side)

Top communities: Incline Village (NV), South Lake Tahoe (CA)

Lake Tahoe straddles the border of California and Nevada and is famed for its crystalline blue waters, alpine backdrop, and upscale lakeside communities. It’s a prime location for luxury homebuyers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for high property appreciation potential.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: High-end homes regularly sell for $2 million+, especially on the Nevada side, where property is in high demand due to tax benefits.

  • Lifestyle: Skiing in winter, boating in summer, and countless trails for hiking and mountain biking year-round.

  • Schools: Incline Village schools are rated above average, with small class sizes and strong community support.

  • Job market: While Tahoe itself is largely seasonal, proximity to Reno and the Bay Area offers broader economic access.

Downside: Tahoe has one of the highest costs of living among US lake towns, with limited housing inventory and increasing pressure from second-home buyers.

Lake Norman, North Carolina

House on the shore of Lake Norman, in Cornelius, North Carolina.

Best for: Suburban comfort, strong schools, and access to Charlotte’s booming job market

Top communities: Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville

Just 20 miles north of Charlotte, Lake Norman is North Carolina’s largest man-made lake and offers a mix of scenic waterfronts and suburban living. It’s a hot spot for young families and professionals seeking a balance of tranquility and opportunity.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Lakefront homes start around $700,000, with luxury properties exceeding $3 million. The market has seen steady appreciation.

  • Schools: Some of the state’s best public and private schools, particularly in Davidson and Cornelius.

  • Job market: Charlotte is a major financial and tech hub with employers like Bank of America, Honeywell, and LendingTree.

  • Recreation: Over 500 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.

Downside: The area faces increasing traffic congestion and rising property taxes as the region grows rapidly.

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

A busy summer day along the beach of the lake at Independence Point, in the downtown Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Best for: Scenic views, luxury second homes, and access to nature with investment potential

Top communities: Coeur d’Alene, Harrison, Hayden Lake (adjacent)

Located in northern Idaho, Lake Coeur d’Alene has become a premier destination for both full-time residents and second-home buyers. Its picturesque setting, walkable downtown, and expanding amenities make it an appealing lakeside location with room to grow.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Lakefront homes have doubled in value in the last five years, with current prices ranging from $800,000 to $5 million.

  • Schools: Coeur d’Alene School District is well-rated, with several charter and magnet school options.

  • Job market: Coeur d’Alene has a growing tourism and service economy, with proximity to Spokane, WA for tech, healthcare, and aerospace jobs.

  • Lifestyle: Residents enjoy boating, hiking, golf, and top-tier resorts like the Coeur d’Alene Golf & Spa Resort.

Downside: With rising popularity, housing affordability is declining, and infrastructure is playing catch-up with growth.

Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York

Woman riding a bicycle on the colchester causeway in vermont, a gravel bike cycling path across Lake Champlain.

Best for: Affordable lakefront property, small-town charm, and historic appeal

Top communities: Burlington (VT), Plattsburgh (NY), Shelburne (VT)

Lake Champlain stretches over 120 miles between Vermont and New York and offers serene living away from urban chaos. It’s a haven for those seeking lower property costs and a slower pace of life with a strong connection to history and nature.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Lakefront homes range from $400,000 to $1 million, far more affordable than many comparable areas.

  • Schools: Vermont schools, especially around Burlington, have strong reputations, with high graduation rates and community involvement.

  • Job market: Burlington is a hub for healthcare, education (University of Vermont), and renewable energy startups.

  • Recreation: Excellent sailing, fishing, and kayaking with sweeping fall foliage and mountain backdrops.

Downside: Long, cold winters and limited economic diversity in rural areas can deter some buyers.

Lake Travis, Texas

 Panorama of Lake Travis from The Oasis restaurant in Austin, Texas at sunset. Editorial credit: amadeustx / Shutterstock.com

Best for: Young professionals, vibrant communities, and access to Austin’s tech boom

Top communities: Lakeway, Spicewood, Hudson Bend

Lake Travis, just west of Austin, is a favorite for those who want lakefront living without sacrificing city perks. With lively marinas, luxury homes, and proximity to a growing tech scene, it’s a hotspot for upwardly mobile residents.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Lakefront homes start around $1 million and can exceed $6 million. Properties hold value thanks to high demand and limited shoreline.

  • Schools: Lake Travis ISD is one of the highest-ranked districts in Texas.

  • Job market: Major employers like Apple, Tesla, and Oracle have expanded in Austin, creating a strong employment base.

  • Recreation: Boating, paddleboarding, and lakeside bars like The Oasis make it a hub for fun and fitness.

Downside: Water levels fluctuate due to drought conditions, and traffic from Austin’s growth can impact quality of life.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

The shoreline on Geneva Lake in Wisconsin.

Best for: Midwest summer homes, historic estates, and tourism-friendly investment

Top communities: Lake Geneva, Fontana, Williams Bay

A longtime getaway for Chicago’s elite, Lake Geneva offers upscale small-town living, charming architecture, and a vibrant summer scene. Though many use the area as a second-home base, a growing number of families and retirees now call it home full-time.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Lakefront estates range from $1.5 million to $10 million+, but nearby inland homes are more accessible.

  • Schools: Small but well-funded public schools; private options available in nearby Delavan and Elkhorn.

  • Job market: Primarily driven by tourism, hospitality, and healthcare. Commuting to Chicago or Milwaukee is possible.

  • Recreation: Walk the 21-mile Geneva Lake Shore Path, visit historic mansions, or sail in regattas.

Downside: Seasonal surges in population and heavy tourism traffic in summer can affect residents.

Flathead Lake, Montana

Ariel view of flathead lake from Sommers, Montana.

Best for: Wide-open views, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life

Top communities: Polson, Bigfork, Lakeside

The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake offers unmatched scenic value with its surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those seeking privacy or rural luxury.

Why it’s ideal:

  • Real estate: Homes range from $500,000 for cabins to $5 million+ for private lakefront estates. Real estate here has appreciated rapidly post-pandemic.

  • Schools: Smaller, community-centered schools with strong support networks.

  • Job market: Limited locally, but tourism, agriculture, and remote work have helped the area grow. Kalispell is the nearest regional employment hub.

  • Lifestyle: Clear waters, fly fishing, and Glacier National Park nearby make it a dream for outdoor enthusiasts.

Downside: Rural location means limited healthcare access and few urban amenities.

Where Water Meets Quality of Life

Wooden porch of a house, overlooking the serene blue waters of a lake.

Living on a lake isn't just about the view—it's about the lifestyle that comes with it. Whether you're drawn to the glitz of Lake Tahoe, the suburban convenience of Lake Norman, or the peaceful stillness of Flathead Lake, there's a lake on this list that offers the balance of beauty, livability, and investment potential.

These seven lakes showcase the best of what America has to offer: strong schools, access to vibrant job markets, and real estate that continues to grow in value. With remote work expanding and quality of life becoming a bigger priority, lakeside living is no longer just a luxury—it's a smart choice for families, retirees, and professionals.

So if you’re dreaming of coffee by the water, sunset paddles, or raising your kids where nature is just outside your door, the perfect lake home might be closer than you think.

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Jessica Dillinger May 6 2025 in United States

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