Living up to its name as the “Gem State,” Idaho is home to beautiful scenery—rugged cliffs, winding rivers, snow-capped mountains, and azure lakes. Idaho is home to countless popular lakes and charming hidden gems, making it one of many stunning areas to purchase lakefront property.
Here at Redfin, we’ve assembled a list of 10 popular livable lakes in Idaho. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of Bear Lake, the vast vistas of Lake Pend Oreille, or the vibrant communities surrounding Lake Coeur d’Alene, there’s always something for everyone. There’s a lakefront home for you.
1. Bell Lake (St. Charles)
Nearest city: st charles idaho
Median home sales price: $870,000
population: 130
St. Charles Homes for Sale
St. Charles Apartments for Rent
Located in the quaint town of St. Charles, Bear Lake is a great choice for those seeking a tranquil lakeside lifestyle. Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its stunning turquoise waters, Bear Lake straddles the Idaho and Utah borders and offers ample opportunities for water sports, fishing, and relaxation. Surrounded by dense forests and mountains, the area is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. St. Charles has a smaller population, giving it a close-knit community feel while still being close to other small towns like Bloomington, Paris, and Fish Harbor.
2. Island Park Reservoir (Island Park)
Nearest city: island park idaho
population: 200
Island Park, ID Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Island Park, ID
Island Park Reservoir is a hidden gem located in Island Park, offering a secluded option for nature and outdoor lovers. This vast body of water is ideal for fishing, boating, and kayaking, and the surrounding wilderness offers endless trails for hiking and mountain biking. The small community of Island Park is known for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, nearby Harriman State Park, Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, and Caribou Taji National Forest make Island Park Reservoir a great lakeside town in Idaho.
3. Cascade Lake
Nearest city: Cascade, Idaho
Median home sales price: $605,000
population: 1,000
Homes for Sale in Cascade, ID
Apartments for Rent in Cascade, ID
Cascade has a vibrant community and tons of outdoor activities, making it a great choice for those seeking a lakeside town lifestyle in Idaho. Lake Cascade is a popular destination for fishing, sailing and windsurfing, and the surrounding area offers hiking trails such as the Skein Lake Trail or the Willow Creek Trail. Cascade’s small-town charm combined with its outdoor recreation opportunities creates the perfect balance for residents. The town is also home to several local restaurants, community parks and activities along the Payette River.
4. Coeur d’Alene
Nearest city: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Median home sales price: $616,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,657
population: 52,000
Homes for Sale in Coeur d’Alene, ID
Apartments for Rent in Coeur d’Alene, ID
Located in the vibrant city of Coeur d’Alene, Lake Coeur d’Alene is known for its clear waters and beautiful scenery. The lake is a paradise for boaters, swimmers and anglers, offering a variety of water activities. Coeur d’Alene has a bustling downtown area with many dining, shopping and entertainment options. Located on the lakefront, the Coeur d’Alene resort adds to the luxury with its world-class amenities and golf course. Numerous parks and trails such as Tubbs Hill, Blackwell Island Recreation Site and Canfield Mountain Natural Trail complement the area’s natural beauty.
5. Lake Lowell (Nampa)
Nearest city: Nampa, Idaho
Median home sales price: $412,250
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,399
population: 106,000
Nampa, ID Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Nampa, ID
Located in Nampa, Lake Lowell provides residents with a peaceful respite from the big city. Part of the Deer Flats National Wildlife Refuge, the lake provides a refuge for birds and wildlife and a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. Nampa’s vibrant community is home to the Ford Idaho Center, which frequently hosts concerts, rodeos, and other events. The city is also home to a variety of local restaurants, breweries, and wineries that reflect Idaho’s rich agricultural heritage. If you’re looking for a blend of city living and outdoor activities, living near Lake Lowell may be right for you.
6. Lake Pend Ore (Sandpoint)
Nearest city: sandpoint idaho
Median home sales price: $469,500
population: 8,900
Homes for Sale in Sandpoint, ID
Apartments for Rent in Sandpoint, ID
Lake Pend Oreille’s stunning scenery and variety of recreational activities attract residents from all over the world. As the largest lake in Idaho, it offers excellent conditions for sailing, fishing, and water sports. The nearest town, Sandpoint, has a vibrant arts scene, including the annual Festival at Sandpoint music event. Integrate with the natural beauty of the area. The town is also the gateway to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which offers outdoor adventure activities year-round, from skiing in the winter to mountain biking in the summer.
7. Payette Lake (McCall)
Nearest city: McCall, Idaho
Median home sales price: $825,000
population: 3,000
McCall, ID Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in McCall, ID
Located in the picturesque town of McCall, Payette Lake is Idaho’s seventh habitable lake. Surrounded by dense forests and mountains, this glacial lake offers breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings. Payette Lake offers beaches, boat ramps and fishing areas. McCall is known for its Winter Carnival, a celebration that brings the community together through parades, snow sculptures and activities. The area offers an array of outdoor activities, including skiing at nearby Brundage Mountain and hiking at Ponderosa State Park. With its natural beauty and active lifestyle, Payette Lake offers something for everyone.
8. Priest Lake (Kulin)
Nearest city: coolin idaho
Median home sales price: $1,060,000
population: 10
Coolin, ID Homes for Sale
Kulin, ID Apartments for Rent
Priest Lake is a stunning lake located in Selkirk Mountains.Featuring pristine waters and unspoilt wilderness Priest Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, mountain biking, winter snowmobiling and skiing.The nearest town is Kulin has a population of only about 10 people, making the area ideal for those who want to get closer to nature. The lake’s crystal clear waters and beautiful scenery make it a great lake for swimming, boating, fishing or just enjoying the view.
9. Redfish Lake (Stanley)
Nearest city: Stanley, Idaho
Median home sales price: $928,000
population: 100
Stanley, ID Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Stanley, ID
Set against the stunning backdrop of Stanley’s Sawtooth Mountains, Redfish Lake is a stunning destination. The lake’s clear, icy waters are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming, while the surrounding wilderness offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. With its sparse population and cozy atmosphere, Stanley is a perfect escape for those seeking a natural retreat. The annual Sawtooth Salmon Festival celebrates the area’s natural heritage and provides education and entertainment.
10. Snake River (American Waterfall)
Nearest city: American Falls, Idaho
Median home sales price: $270,000
population: 4,500
Homes for Sale in American Falls, ID
Apartments for Rent in American Falls, ID
The Snake River, which flows through the town of American Falls, ranks last on the list of Idaho lakes. While the Snake River is technically a river, it is known for its world-class fishing, boating, and water sports opportunities. American Falls Reservoir, formed by the damming of the Snake River, provides additional water activities and scenery. The town of American Falls offers a community feel and easy access to outdoor adventures. Nearby Massacre Rocks State Park adds to the area’s appeal, offering hiking, rock climbing and historical exploration. The Snake River’s scenery and variety of activities make it a great destination for those seeking active yet tranquil lakeside living.
Please note that this list does not include all lakes in Idaho. Median home sales price data comes from Red Fin Information Center Average rent data for the period April 2024 rental network April 2024. U.S. Census Bureau.
