Georgia is home to stunning natural landscapes, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, coastal cities like Savannah, and lakes like Lake Lanier. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a lakefront home in Georgia, you’ve come to the right place.
Redfin has rounded up nine of the most livable lakes in Georgia this year. From majestic Blue Ridge Lake to stunning Lake Seminole, Georgia has a variety of waterfront properties to suit every taste and budget. Let’s take a closer look at which lakeside towns made the list.
1. Blue Ridge Lake
Nearest city: Blue Ridge, Georgia
Median home sales price: $624,000
population: 1,400
Blue Ridge, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Blue Ridge, GA
The first place on our list of the best lakes to live in Georgia is Blue Ridge Lake. Nestled in the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, the lake provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating. Not far from the lake, the town of Blue Ridge is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique shopping experiences, and the famous Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad. this lake Providing a tranquil setting for home buyers looking to relocate to the area permanently or those looking for a second home to escape city life.
2. Carters Lake (Ellijay)
Nearest city: Ellijay, Georgia
Median home sales price: $437,000
population: 1,800
Ellijay, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Ellijay, GA
Carters Lake is known for its pristine beauty and deep, clear waters. As the deepest reservoir in the state, Carters Lake attracts everyone from anglers to kayakers looking to enjoy its pristine surroundings. The surrounding area is also a haven for outdoor activities, including hiking along the Appalachian Trail and exploring the nearby vast national forests. nearest town, Ellijay is often called the “Apple Capital of Georgia” because of its annual Apple Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. The combination of natural beauty and community activities makes Ellijay the perfect lakeside town.
3. Lake Chatuge (Hiawassee)
Nearest city: Hiawassee, Georgia
Median home sales price: $378,000
population: 900
Hiawassee, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Hiawassee, GA
Chatuge Lake is set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia and North Carolina. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for fishing, boating, water skiing and swimming. The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, located on the lakefront, hosts a variety of events throughout the year celebrating the region’s rich culture and history. The nearest village is Hiawassee offers several local shops and restaurants. You can also hike to nearby Bell Mountain for stunning views of Chatuge Lake.
4. Lake Allatoona (Acworth)
Nearest city: Acworth, Georgia
Median home sales price: $372,500
Average rent for one bedroom: $2,293 USD
population: 23,000
Acworth, GA Homes for Sale
Acworth, GA Apartments for Rent
The vast waters of Lake Allatoona and surrounding parks offer a variety of recreational activities, from boating to camping. Lake Allatoona, for example, has countless green spaces to explore, such as Red Top Mountain State Park, George Washington Carver Park, and Fields Landing Park. Known as the “Lake City,” Acworth provides residents with a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures. The city’s historic downtown district features charming boutiques and local restaurants that complement the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Allatoona. The combination of outdoor activities and amenities make Acworth a stunning lakeside town.
5. Lake Hartwell (Reedy Creek)
Nearest city: Reed Creek, Georgia
Median home sales price: $1,270,000
population: 2,700
Reed Creek, GA Homes for Sale
Reed Creek, GA Apartments for Rent
Lake Hartwell borders Georgia and South Carolina, making it a popular lake for residents of both states. The extensive shoreline lends itself to a variety of water sports, and the surrounding area is ideal for golfing, hiking and exploring the great outdoors. There are many small communities around the lake, including Reedy Creek. There are many attractions in town, from boat ramps and local restaurants to campgrounds and Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari.
6. Lake Lanier (Gainesville)
Nearest city: Gainesville, Georgia
Median home sales price: $416,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,737
population: 44,000
Gainesville, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Gainesville, GA
Lake Lanier is a large lake that offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a popular year-round destination. There are many towns surrounding the lake, so you’ll find plenty to do. One of the major cities is Gainesville is on the east side of the lake. The city’s vibrant downtown district offers numerous shops, waterfront restaurants, and parks such as Lanier Point Park and Longwood Park. If you’re looking for a lake in Georgia with lots of amenities, you might like Lake Lanier.
7. Lake Sinclair (Milledgeville)
Nearest city: Milledgeville, Georgia
Median home sales price: $149,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $750
population: 19,000
Milledgeville, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Milledgeville, GA
Lake Sinclair is located in the heart of Georgia, near the town of Milledgeville. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for fishing, boating, and spending leisurely days by the water. Lake Sinclair is also close to the Oconee National Forest, which has more than 850 miles of trails, campgrounds, rivers, and picturesque sites. Milledgeville is rich in history, with a unique blend of historic homes and architecture and local restaurants showcasing innovative cuisine.
8. Lake Seminole (Bainbridge)
Nearest city: Bainbridge, Georgia
Median home sales price: $80,500
population: 13,000
Bainbridge, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Bainbridge, GA
A popular destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching, Lake Seminole offers a peaceful respite. This lake is located on the border of Georgia and Florida, making it a great choice if you want to visit both states. At Lake Seminole, you’ll find Seminole State Park, which offers wildlife viewing areas, camping areas, bays, and opportunities for swimming and water skiing. The nearest city is Bainbridge is known for its Southern hospitality and charming downtown, home to many local shops, restaurants, and historic homes.
9. West Point Lake (LaGrange)
Nearest city: LaGrange, Georgia
Median home sales price: $187,450
Average rent for one bedroom: $795
population: 30,000
LaGrange, GA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in LaGrange, GA
West Point Lake is a beautiful location for a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and hiking. The lake’s extensive coastline offers many opportunities for recreation and entertainment, such as Sunny Point Recreation Area or Yellow Jacket Beach. The city of LaGrange balances small-town charm with big-city conveniences. The community is known for its cultural institutions, including the LaGrange Museum of Art and Sweetland Amphitheater in the historic downtown district. A blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and amenities make LaGrange and West Point Lakes great options for lakeside living in Georgia.
Please note that this list does not include all lakes in Georgia. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
