Spring and summer in Texas are warm, with blue skies and bright sunshine, perfect for enjoying a day on the lake. Texas is home to countless lakes, with nearly 150 significant lakes and thousands of reservoirs, making it an excellent area to consider purchasing lakefront property.
Here at Redfin, we’ve compiled a list of the best lakes in Texas to buy a home on this year. From the tranquil shores of Lake Buchanan Village to the vibrant communities near Lake Travis, read on to learn which Texas lake is right for you.
1. Lake Buchanan (Buchanan Lake Village)
Nearest city: Lake Buchanan Village, Texas
Median home sales price: $115,000
population: 690
Homes for Sale in Lake Buchanan Village, TX
Apartments for Rent in Lake Buchanan Village, TX
Number one on this year’s list of livable lakes in Texas is Lake Buchanan. Lake Buchanan is located in Northeast Austin near the quaint Lake Buchanan Village community. This lake is a gem for those who love the outdoors, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the tranquility of waterfront living. There are several parks around the lake, such as Burnett County Park, Black Rock Park, and Cedar Point Recreation Area. Lake Buchanan Village offers residents a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
2. Cedar Creek Reservoir (Gun Barrel City)
Nearest city: Texas Gun Barrel City
Median home sales price: $265,500
population: 7,100
Homes for Sale in Gun Barrel City, TX
Apartments for rent in Gun Barrel City, Texas
Cedar Creek Reservoir is a great lake for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake is ideal for a variety of activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. There are many small communities surrounding the lake, such as Enchanted Oaks, Seven Points, and Ruth Springs, but the main town is Gun Barrel City. This lakeside community of 7,100 balances small-town charm with lakeside living. You can find many big-name shops as well as local restaurants, markets and cafes.
3. Lake Conroe
Nearest city: Conroe, Texas
Median home sales price: $313,750
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,220
population: 91,000
Conroe, TX Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Conroe, TX
Lake Conroe is located at the north end of Conroe, a perfect blend of recreational activities and residential areas. The 22,000-acre lake has 157 miles of shoreline and is a popular destination for a variety of water sports including fishing, boating and jet skiing. Lake Conroe is home to many waterfront restaurants, charming resorts, and country clubs with water views. Conroe has about 91,000 residents, so it’s a good choice if you want to visit shops and restaurants.
4. Lake Livingston (Livingston)
Nearest city: Livingston, Texas
Median home sales price: $300,000
population: 5,300
Livingston Texas Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Livingston, TX
Lake Livingston is a massive reservoir located within the Sam Houston National Forest. The lake is a paradise for anglers, boaters and those who love the quiet life around the lake. You’ll find many parks like Livingston Lake State Park, Wolf Creek Park, and Tigerville Park that offer water views.There are many small towns around the lake, but the main town is Livingston has approximately 5,300 residents. Livingston has a small-town atmosphere with local shops and restaurants along North Washington Avenue and Highway 190.
5. Lake Palestine (Coffee City)
Nearest city: Texas Coffee City
Median home sales price: $650,000
population: 200
Texas Coffee City Homes for Sale
Texas Coffee City Apartments for Rent
Lake Palestine, located between Tyler and Palestine, is the next spot on our list of great Texas lakes to live in this year.The lake is great Boat, fish and soak in stunning sunsets. Lake Palestine is a popular spot for bass tournaments because the lake has large populations of white bass and hybrid striped bass, as well as catfish and crappie.There are several communities around the lake, such as With a population of about 200 people, Coffee Town is a quaint place to enjoy the outdoors.
6. Lake Texoma (Preston)
Nearest city: Preston, Texas
Median home sales price: $580,000
population: 2,100
Preston, TX Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Preston, TX
Located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is a perfect location Fishing, boating and hiking. There are many lakeside parks here, such as Island View Park, Sunset Point, and Eisenhower State Park, which all have beaches, boat ramps, and walking trails. Lake Texoma is a popular area for camping, so there are many campsites around the lake. Located near the city of Preston, Lake Texoma is a peaceful escape from city life. However, if you want to explore the nearby area, be sure to head to Denison, a few miles south of the lake.
7. Lake Travis (Austin)
Nearest city: Austin, Texas
Median home sales price: $550,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,485
population: 990,000
Austin Texas Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Austin, Texas
One of the most popular lakes in Texas is Lake Travis in Austin. Popular with Austin residents, this lake is great for water sports, boating, and enjoying the scenic Texas Hill Country. Whether you want to visit a lakefront park like Arkansas Bend Park or Bob Wentz Park, zip line, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, or paddle along the river, Travis Lake Travis has something for everyone.
8. Lake Whitney (Whitney)
Nearest city: Whitney, Texas
Median home sales price: $158,000
population: 2,100
Whitney, TX Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Whitney, TX
Lake Whitney is a picturesque destination just outside the town of Whitney. Known for its clear waters and abundant fishing opportunities such as catfish and bass, this lake is great for anglers. Lake Whitney is also home to Lake Whitney State Park, which offers views of the lake and surrounding area. You can find marinas with boat launches, making Lake Whitney a great place to enjoy a day on the water. Whitney has a friendly, small-town atmosphere that complements the tranquil lake lifestyle.
9. Possum Kingdom Lake (Grafford)
Nearest city: Grafford, Texas
Median home sales price: $570,000
population: 600
Grafford, TX Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Grafford, TX
Possum Kingdom Lake is a picturesque lake with hills, rugged cliffs and trails. The lake is known for its crystal clear waters, perfect for boating, skiing and fishing. The area has several beaches (like Sand Beach), marinas, and parks (like Possum Kingdom State Park) where you can camp, hike, and rent boats.The nearest community is Graford, which has several local restaurants and quaint shops. If you’re looking for a more remote lakeside town, Possum Kingdom Lake might be for you.
10. Richland-Chambers Reservoir (Corsicana)
Nearest city: Corsicana, Texas
Median home sales price: $222,000
population: 23,000
Corsicana, TX Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Corsicana, TX
The last place on our list of livable lakes in Texas is Richland-Chambers Reservoir. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, boating and enjoying the outdoors. The adjacent Richland Creek Wildlife Management Area is a picturesque location for hiking, horseback riding, camping, biking, and lake views. This small town is located in Corsicana and has a lot to offer. From community events and museums like Pioneer Village to the charming downtown district, you’ll find plenty to do in this lakeside town.
Please note that this list is not a complete list of all lakes in Texas. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
