As the “Sunshine State,” Florida is known for its abundant sunshine and lush landscapes, and is home to some of the most beautiful lakes. From the meandering lakes of the Everglades to the blue lakes of the big cities, there are many places to buy a lake house in Florida.
Here at Redfin, we’ve compiled this year’s list of the best lakes to live in in Florida. From the tranquil shores of Crescent Lake in Crescent City to the vast waters of Taylor Creek and Lake Okeechobee, each lake has its own charm and appeal. Let’s jump in.
1. Crescent Lake (Crescent City)
Nearest city: crescent city florida
Median home sales price: $250,000
population: 1,600
Crescent City, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Crescent City, FL
The first inhabited lake in Florida this year is Crescent Lake. Located inland in the Palm Coast area, This tranquil lake provides a peaceful respite for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying Florida’s lush scenery. There are several surrounding parks, including Haw Creek Preserve State Park, where you can kayak or canoe through cypress trees. The nearest town is Crescent City, a quaint place full of small town charm. With only 1,600 residents, Crescent City has a close-knit community feel and local shops and restaurants. The lake’s proximity to local parks and nature trails makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Lake Apopka (Winter Garden)
Nearest city: winter garden florida
Median home sales price: $540,750
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,795
population: 50,000
Winter Garden, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Winter Garden, FL
Lake Apopka It is the fourth largest lake in Florida and offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, bird watching, and boating. The lake is home to alligators, otters, and a variety of migratory birds, making it the perfect lake to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty. There are many parks around the lake, such as Auckland Nature Reserve, Newton Park and the Circle Trail. There are several towns around the lake, but the largest one is winter garden. This Orlando suburb is known for its historic downtown, which offers a variety of dining and shopping options, while the West Orange Trail offers cyclists and hikers great views of the lake and its surrounding nature. Lake Apopka’s natural beauty and Winter Garden’s community amenities make it an excellent lakefront location.
3. Lake Dora (Tavares)
Nearest city: Tavares, Florida
Median home sales price: $305,000
population: 19,000
Tavares, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Tavares, FL
Lake Dora is a gem in the city of Tavares, known as Seaplane City USA. It’s located just north of Lake Apopka, so you have easy access to both lakes. Lake Dora is a hub for boating, fishing, and hydroplane adventures, providing residents with unique experiences. Tavares itself is a welcoming community of 19,000 people with waterfront dining and entertainment options. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Rock Beer Fest, making it a vibrant place to live.
4. Lake Eustis
Nearest city: Eustis, Florida
Median home sales price: $326,000
population: 23,000
Eustis, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Eustis, FL
Lake Eustis is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes and is located in the heart of Eustis. The area is ideal for water sports, fishing and sailing enthusiasts. Ferran Park and Eustis Lake Walk are located on the water’s edge, offering stunning lake views and outdoor activities. Eustis, population 23,000, has a historic downtown area that often hosts events and festivals. Living in Eustis offers a combination of relaxation and adventure, so this is a great Florida lake to visit this year.
5. Lake George (Pilsen)
Nearest city: Pearson, Florida
Median home sales price: $167,000
population: 1,800
Pierson, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Pearson, FL
Lake George is the second largest lake in Florida and offers stunning natural beauty and abundant fishing opportunities. The lake is ideal for boating and fishing enthusiasts and offers access to the vast St. Johns River. You can also explore the vast Ocala National Forest, which has more than 600 lakes, springs and rivers and plenty of trails. The nearest town is Pilsen, nicknamed the “fern capital of the world” The natural beauty of the surrounding area. it is A small town with a population of only 1,800 people provides a quiet and peaceful living environment.
6. Lake Harris (Leesburg)
Nearest city: Leesburg, Florida
Median home sales price: $310,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,099
population: 28,000
Leesburg, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Leesburg, FL
Lake Harris is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. The lake is known for its abundance of bass and sunfish. Located on the shores of Lake Harris, Venice Gardens Park offers residents picnic areas, walking trails, and stunning lake views, so there’s something for everyone. Leesburg, population 28,000, offers a variety of cultural experiences, including arts festivals, music events and historical museums such as the Leesburg Historical Museum. Whether you’re in town or spending the day at the lake, Lake Harris is Florida’s most livable lake.
7. Lake Seminole (Seminole)
Nearest city: Florida Seminole
Median home sales price: $373,750
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,295
population: 19,000
Seminole, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Seminole, FL
Located in the city of Seminole, Lake Seminole is a popular lake that offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The lake’s proximity to gulf beaches and city amenities makes it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy Florida’s outdoor lifestyle. Seminole has 19,000 residents and is known for its parks, shopping centers, and fun activities. Seminole City Park, located near Lake Seminole, hosts annual events and concerts, so there’s plenty to do every season.
8. Lake Okeechobee (Taylor Creek)
Nearest city: taylor creek florida
Median home sales price: $215,000
population: 4,000
Taylor Creek, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Taylor Creek, FL
Known as Florida’s “Liquid Heart,” Lake Okeechobee is the state’s largest freshwater lake. This lake is located near the small community of Taylor Creek and provides excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail is approximately 110 miles long and offers stunning views and a path for cyclists and hikers to explore the area’s natural beauty. Taylor Creek is located near Lake Okeechobee, making it a great town for those looking for tranquil lakefront property.
9. Lake Tarpon (Tapon Springs)
Nearest city: tarpon springs florida
Median home sales price: $491,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,375
population: 26,000
Tarpon Springs, FL Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Tarpon Springs, FL
Lake Tarpon covers 2,500 acres and is known for its bass fishing and water recreation activities such as swimming and boating. There are numerous surrounding parks, such as John Chesnut Sr. Park and AL Anderson Park, where you’ll find boat launches, trails, picnic areas, and lake views. The town is located near the historic city of Tarpon Springs and is famous for its sponge pier, Greek cuisine and festivals. The city’s Fred Howard Park offers beautiful beaches and opportunities to see manatees and dolphins.
10. Lake Tohopekariga (Kissimmee)
Nearest city: Kissimmee, Florida
Median home sales price: $369,950 USD
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,657
population: 80,000
Homes for Sale in Kissimmee, FL
Apartments for Rent in Kissimmee, FL
Lake Tohopekaliga, commonly known as Lake Toho, is a fisherman’s paradise located in Kissimmee. The lake is famous for its bass fishing tournaments and beautiful waterfront park. Lake Toho’s lakeside park offers scenic views, a fishing pier and walking trails. The lake is also home to a variety of birds and crocodiles, which you can spot during your airboat ride. living nearby Kissimmee offers many attractions, including nearby Orlando theme parks, outdoor adventure activities, and a colorful downtown district. Lake Toho’s natural beauty combined with Kissimmee’s amenities make it the most livable lake in Florida.
Please note that this list is not a complete list of all lakes in Florida. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
