With mountains like the Blue Ridge Mountains, rivers like the Tennessee River, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes, Tennessee is home to countless natural areas. If you’ve always dreamed of owning a lakefront property in Tennessee, you’ve come to the right place.
Here at Redfin, we’ve compiled a list of the best lakes to live in in Tennessee this year. Whether you’re drawn to the city of Chattanooga on Lake Chickamauga or the quaint charm of Tiptonville on Lake Rearfoot, you’re one step closer to finding your perfect lakefront home. Let’s take a look at the list.
1. Center Mountain Lake (Smithville)
Nearest city: Smithville, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $300,000
population: 4,800
Smithville, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Smithville, TN
First on our list of livable lakes in Tennessee is Center Hill Lake, with its crystal clear waters. The lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as boating, fishing and hiking available at the lake. Edgar Evins State Park is located on the northern edge of the lake and features mountains, overlooks, trails, and restaurants. The closest city is Smithville, which offers a welcoming community and scenic landscape. The town is filled with local restaurants and shops, adding to the small town charm.
2. Lake Cherokee (Morristown)
Nearest city: Morristown, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $296,922 USD
population: 30,000
Morristown, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Morristown, TN
Cherokee Lake is a gem in Northeast Tennessee. This vast lake is a popular spot for bass fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the great outdoors. Cherokee Lake has several parks to explore, such as Panther Creek State Park, which has 17 hiking trails, fishing areas, and horseback riding trails. There are many small communities along the coast, but the closest city is Morristown. From local museums like the Crockett Tavern Museum to parks and trails, there are plenty of things to do in Morristown.
3. Lake Chickamauga (Chattanooga)
Nearest city: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $319,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,407
population: 184,000
Chattanooga, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Chattanooga, TN
Due to its proximity to Chattanooga, lake chickamauga A blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. This Tennessee lake is perfect for those who enjoy water sports, fishing, or just relaxing by the water. With miles of coastline, you’ll find numerous parks such as Harrison Bay State Park, Chester Frost Park, and Booker T. Washington State Park. The lake is located Chattanooga is a city steeped in history, rich in modern amenities, and offers endless entertainment and dining options. For example, you can explore the Tennessee Aquarium, catch a game at AT&T Stadium, and check out vendors at the Chattanooga Marketplace.
4. Lake Del Holo (Celina)
Nearest city: Celena, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $208,000
population: 1,500 people
Celena, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Celena, TN
Lake Dale Hollow is a picturesque lake located on the border of Tennessee and Kentucky. Known for its clear waters and peaceful surroundings, it is a favorite among residents of both states. There are many docks to launch your boat, campgrounds, viewpoints and nature trails. The nearest community is Selena, on the west side of the lake. This small village has approximately 1,500 residents and there are many local restaurants and shops to explore. If you’re looking for a secluded and peaceful community, this lake in Tennessee is a great choice.
5. Douglas Lake (Dandridge)
Nearest city: Dandridge, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $310,050
population: 3,200
Homes for Sale in Dandridge, TN
Apartments for Rent in Dandridge, TN
North of the Cherokee National Forest is Douglas Lake. This lake is perfect for anyone who enjoys boating, fishing, or just soaking up the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Dandridge, Tennessee’s second-oldest town, combines historic charm with tranquil lake life. With a smaller population, this is a great place to consider living but still embrace the natural beauty that surrounds you. For example, you can dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, hike the Dandridge Partnership Trail, or camp at one of the many campgrounds.
6. Old Hickory Lake (Hendersonville)
Nearest city: Hendersonville, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $535,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,299
population: 61,000
Hendersonville, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Hendersonville, TN
Located near the bustling city of Hendersonville, Old Hickory Lake is a haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation. There are many beaches, such as Old Hickory Beach, historical attractions, such as Historic Rock Castle, and scenic spots, such as Two Feet Bay. The lake’s proximity to Nashville offers residents a combination of tranquil lake life and vibrant city culture. Hendersonville itself has a rich musical heritage and offers a variety of entertainment and dining options.
7. Percy Priest Lake (Nashville)
Nearest city: Nashville, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $485,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,788
population: 690,000
Nashville, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Nashville, TN
Just a few miles from Nashville’s bustling downtown, Percy Priest Lake is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of nature. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing and picnicking, offering a perfect blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities. Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene and rich history, ensuring there’s always something to do. With a population of nearly 690,000, the city combines the warmth of a small town with the conveniences of a big city.
8. Lake Rearfoot (Tiptonville)
Nearest city: Tiptonville, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $97,900
population: 4,300
Tiptonville, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Tiptonville, TN
Reelfoot Lake is located in the northwest corner of Tennessee and is known for its unique cypress trees and abundant wildlife. This natural paradise is perfect for bird watching, fishing and exploring the great outdoors. Tiptonville is the closest city and a peaceful retreat from city life. The town’s cozy cafes, local markets, and parks make it the best lakeside town in Tennessee to relocate to.
9. Lake Timsford (Winchester)
Nearest city: Winchester, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $259,900
population: 9,000
Winchester, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Winchester, TN
Tennessee’s next inhabited lake this year is Lake Timsford, located near the historic town of Winchester. The lake is famous for its clear waters, perfect for boating, fishing and swimming. There are many scenic overlooks, landmarks like Pennington Cave, and hiking trails at Tims Ford State Park. Winchester’s rich history complements the lakefront living experience. It has a population of 9,000 and has a small-town feel with its charming town center filled with shops, restaurants and landmarks such as The Oldham Cinema.
10. Watts Bar Lake (Spring City)
Nearest city: Spring City, Tennessee
Median home sales price: $343,300
population: 2,000
Spring City, TN Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Spring City, TN
With its vast waters, wattsbar lake Perfect for those who love the outdoors. Located near Springfield, the lake provides a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and soaking up the sun. Watts Bar Lake is home to many resorts, marinas, campgrounds, and parks perfect for enjoying summer in Tennessee. Spring Lake has a quaint downtown filled with shops and restaurants, and easy access to the lake.
Please note that this list is not a complete list of all lakes in Tennessee. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
