From rolling plains and lush cornfields to scenic rivers and blue lakes, Iowa has a vast landscape. If you’ve always dreamed of owning a lakefront property, a lakeside town in Iowa could make your dream come true.
To help you get started, Redfin has gathered a list of 1o popular lakes in Iowa to live in this year. From the bustling shores of Big Spirit Lake to the tranquility of Rathbun Lake, Iowa has a lakeside town to suit your needs. Let’s take a look at which lakes made the list.
1. Black Hawk Lake (Lake View)
Nearest city: Lakeview, Iowa
Median home sales price: $202,000
population: 1,100
Lakeview, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Lakeview, Iowa
Number one among the best places to live in Iowa is Black Hawk Lake. Black Hawk Lake is a glacier-formed lake that is a peaceful place for those seeking a tranquil lakeside lifestyle. The lake is a center for activities such as boating, fishing, and enjoying sunrise or sunset views. The surrounding area is home to several parks, including Black Hawk State Park, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Lakeview is full of small-town charm, with several local restaurants and markets, a public library, and a historical museum.
2. Spirit Lake
Nearest city: spirit lake iowa
Median home sales price: $303,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $870
population: 5,000
Spirit Lake, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Spirit Lake, IA
Big Spirit Lake is located in the picturesque setting of Spirit Lake, a community known for its vibrant outdoor life and welcoming atmosphere. As Iowa’s largest natural lake, it’s a haven for anglers, sailors, and anyone who loves boating. The nearby town of Spirit Lake offers all the amenities you need for comfortable lakeside living, including cozy restaurants, unique shops, and community events. The lake is located on the border between Iowa and Minnesota, where you’ll find smaller lakes such as Little Spirit Lake and Loon Lake.
3. Qinghu (清湖)
Nearest city: clear lake iowa
Median home sales price: $294,500
population: 7,700
Clear Lake, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Clear Lake, IA
clear lake water Ideal for those who enjoy sailing, fishing or simply admiring tranquil water views. There are several parks in the area, such as McIntosh Woods State Park and Clear Lake State Park, which have campgrounds, picnic spots, and beaches. Located in the city of Clear Lake, this area is a great place to enjoy waterside living. Clear Lake’s vibrant community is known for its music festivals and historic surf dance halls, adding a unique cultural flavor to this picturesque town. For those looking for the perfect combination, Clear Lake is a great place. Outdoor activities and community events.
4. Lake Coralville and Lake McBride (North Liberty)
Nearest city: North Liberty, Iowa
Median home sales price: $330,000
population: 22,000
North Liberty, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in North Liberty, IA
North Liberty is home to stunning Coralville Lake and Lake MacBride, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The lakes offer a variety of activities, from hiking and bird watching to boating and fishing, there is something for everyone. North Liberty is a suburb of Iowa City that combines urban conveniences with natural beauty, offering a balance between urban and outdoor living. In North Liberty, you’ll find many local restaurants and community parks, and enjoy easy access to landmarks like Devonian Fossil Canyon and Sugar Bottom Recreational Area. These lakes in Iowa offer many options for enjoying the outdoors.
5. Lake Okoboji East and Lake Okoboji West (Okoboji)
Nearest city: Okoboji, Iowa
Median home sales price: $249,000
population: 750
Homes for Sale in Okoboji, IA
Apartments for Rent in Okoboji, IA
South of Big Spirit Lake is the town of Okoboji. Surrounded by the twin lakes of East Okoboji and West Okoboji, Okoboji is a city that embodies the lakeside living experience. Known for their clear waters and recreational opportunities, these glacial lakes attract residents and visitors year-round. Okoboji has a vibrant community filled with arts, entertainment and the annual Okoboji University Winter Games. You can also explore parks like Pikes Point State Park, Dickinson County Nature Center, and more Gull Point State Park is a great place to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake.
6. Lake Manawa (Council Bluffs)
Nearest city: Council Bluffs, Iowa
Median home sales price: $199,500
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,422
population: 62,000
Homes for Sale in Council Bluffs, IA
Apartments for Rent in Council Bluffs, IA
Lake Manawa is a peaceful getaway in the bustling city of Council Bluffs. The lake is loved by locals for its peaceful atmosphere and the variety of activities it offers, such as fishing, hiking and picnicking. Lake Manawa State Park offers campgrounds, picnic spots and trails – perfect for enjoying the lake. Council Bluffs is filled with history and culture, with museums, galleries, and historic sites such as the General Dodge Home and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. The city’s abundance of green spaces also makes it a great place to find a home in a city with a small-town feel.
7. Red Rock Lake (Pella)
Nearest city: Pella, Iowa
Median home sales price: $355,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $645
population: 10,000
Pella, IA Homes for Sale
Pella, IA Apartments for Rent
Located near the charming city of Pella, Red Rock Lake is a picturesque place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and bird watching, and offers a peaceful getaway. You can find several parks around the lake, such as Whitebreast Park, Elk Rock State Park, and Cordova Park, which offer a variety of activities including hiking and horseback riding. kind of activity. Pella is famous for its Dutch heritage and its annual Tulip Festival, which showcases its community spirit. The city’s historic downtown, beautiful parks, and museums like Pella Historic Village and the Vermeer Windmill make it a charming place for Iowa lake dwellers.
8. Rathburn Lake (mysterious)
Nearest city: Mystic, Iowa
Median home sales price: $90,000
population: 320
Mystic, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Mystic, IA
Rathbun Lake is located near the mysterious little community and is an ideal place for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The lake offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. You’ll also find many parks such as Honey Creek State Park, Island View Park, and Buck Creek Park. Mystic Island is a charming village with several local shops, so you’ll be staying in a more remote area. However, the lake is close to Centerville, which has more shops, restaurants, and activities year-round.
9. Lake Sayreville (Johnston)
Nearest city: Johnston, Iowa
Median home sales price: $363,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,234
population: 23,000
Johnston, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Johnston, IA
Lake Sayreville is a reservoir located close to the cities of Polk City, Ankeny, and Johnston, making it a central location for Polk County residents. The lake’s marinas, beaches, and trails offer endless outdoor activities, whether you’re spending a day on the water or at a park like Jester Park or Big Creek State Park. Located on the south end of the river, Johnston has a suburban feel with big city amenities. You’ll find many parks, local restaurants, and museums, such as the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum. It’s about 10 miles from Des Moines, making it a great option if you want lakefront living but need to commute into the city.
10. Storm Lake
Nearest city: Storm Lake, Iowa
Median home sales price: $150,000
population: 11,000
Storm Lake, IA Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Storm Lake, IA
Storm Lake is last on our list of livable lakes in Iowa.the lake is It is famous for its clear waters and recreational activities such as fishing, cross-country skiing, biking, hiking and boating. Storm Lake offers numerous dining, shopping and entertainment options. Buena Vista University hosts a variety of events throughout the year that add to the lively atmosphere of the city. If you’re looking for a charming community with beautiful views, Storm Lake is a great lakeside town to call home.
Please note that this list does not include all lakes in Iowa. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
