Wisconsin’s coastline is dotted with charming lakeside towns along its two great lakes—Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. From smaller lakes in the center of the state to major cities like Madison, Wisconsin has a lake for you.
To help you get started, Redfin has assembled a list of 12 lakes in Wisconsin that are great to live in this year. Whether you rent in Madison near the water or in the rugged wilderness, you’ll find a lake on our list. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Castle Rock Lake (Friendship)
Nearest city: Wisconsin Friendship
Median home sales price: $106,000
population: 7,000
Friendship, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Friendship, WI
The first place on this year’s list of the best lakes to live in Wisconsin is Castle Rock Lake. The lake is a paradise for anglers and boaters, with a variety of fish species and plenty of space for water sports. The surrounding area is filled with parks and recreational attractions such as Buckhorn State Park, Juneau County Castle Rock Park, and Yellow River State Wildlife Area. To the east of Castle Rock Lake is the town of Friendship. The town has a population of 7,000 and offers a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
2. Devil’s Lake (Baraboo)
Nearest city: Baraboo, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $242,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $960
population: 12,000
Baraboo, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Baraboo, WI
Devil’s Lake is a natural wonder that attracts visitors and residents alike with its stunning landscape and outdoor activities. The lake’s clear waters are ideal for canoeing, swimming, and fishing, and the surrounding state parks offer miles of hiking trails through picturesque terrain. With 12,000 residents, Baraboo combines small-town charm with an array of amenities and attractions, including local shops, restaurants and cultural venues. The city is located next to Devil’s Lake, making it a great location for those who love nature and small towns.
3. Lake Geneva (Lake Geneva)
Nearest city: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $400,000
population: 8,000
Lake Geneva, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva (Geneva Lake) is surrounded by the charming city of Lake Geneva, a perfect blend of lakeside luxury and leisure. The lake is surrounded by luxury homes and resorts such as Black Point Estate and Gardens, and offers a variety of water activities including sailing, water skiing and fishing. The city of Lake Geneva, with a population of 8,000, is a center of activity year-round, hosting events and festivals that attract visitors from across the region. The historic downtown area features unique shops and fine dining that add to the charm of life in this lakeside community.
4. Green Lake
Nearest city: green lake wisconsin
Median home sales price: $399,000
population: 1,000
Green Lake, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Green Lake, WI
Green Lake is a hidden gem in the vibrant Green Lake community. Known for its clear waters and tranquil surroundings, the lake is a favorite among those who enjoy fishing, boating and peaceful lakeside walks. Green Lake has a strong sense of community and love of the outdoors. The town maintains a cozy, small-town feel with a variety of local restaurants and shops. Green Lake is a great choice for those looking for a quiet retreat and enjoy lakeside living.
5-6. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona (Madison)
Nearest city: Madison, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $425,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,627
population: 272,900
Madison, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Madison, WI
Madison is Wisconsin’s bustling capital city, located between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, offering residents waterfront recreation and scenic beauty. These lakes are the centerpiece of urban lifestyle, providing endless opportunities for water sports, fishing and scenic lakeside picnics. Madison’s lively downtown district is located near the lakeshore and offers many attractions, dining options, and entertainment options. With a population of nearly 273,000, Madison combines the atmosphere of a big city with the quiet charm of lakeside living, making it one of Wisconsin’s great lakeside towns.
7. Lake Michigan (Sheboygan)
Nearest city: Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $232,900
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,350
population: 48,000
Sheboygan, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Sheboygan, WI
Sheboygan’s picturesque shoreline along Lake Michigan is a major draw for those seeking the beauty and recreational opportunities of one of the Great Lakes. The city’s waterfront is ideal for sailing, fishing and enjoying the beach. While there are countless towns along Lake Michigan, we decided to include Sheboygan instead of the larger Milwaukee. With a population of 48,000, Sheboygan offers a friendly, community-oriented lifestyle with the added benefits of lakefront living. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, food, and events, making it an ideal place for individuals and families. The vast waters of Lake Michigan provide a stunning backdrop to this bustling lakeside city.
8. Lake Pepin
Nearest city: Pepin, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $240,000
population: 800
Pepin, WI Homes for Sale
Pepin, WI Apartments for Rent
Lake Pepin is a natural lake along the Mississippi River, which extends into Wisconsin and Minnesota. The lake is famous for sailing and fishing and is a peaceful retreat for those who want to escape the fast-paced city life. Along its coast you will find The small town of Pepin offers beautiful scenery, campgrounds and parks. The town has charming cafes, local art galleries and a seaside perfect for leisurely strolls. For those who dream of quiet lakeside living, Lake Pepin offers the tranquility and warmth of a small community.
9. Lake Superior (Advanced)
Nearest city: Superior, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $227,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,400
population: 27,000
Superior, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Superior, WI
Located on the shores of majestic Lake Superior, Superior is a city that thrives on water. The largest of the Great Lakes offers residents unparalleled opportunities to boat, kayak and enjoy the natural beauty of the North. Superior’s 27,000 residents enjoy a lifestyle that combines outdoor adventure with the conveniences of city life. From waterfront restaurants to outdoor shops, the city truly embraces the lakefront. The vast beauty of Lake Superior makes Superior an ideal place for those seeking a life filled with natural wonders.
10. Lake Winnebago (Oshkosh)
Nearest city: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $187,500
Average rent for one bedroom: $750
population: 67,000
Oshkow, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Oshkosh, WI
Lake Winnebago is the largest inland lake in Wisconsin, with picturesque scenery and numerous lakeside towns. The lake is a focal point for recreational activities, including fishing, sailing and water skiing, attracting locals and tourists to its shores. Oshkosh is one of many cities with access to the lake Rich history and strong connection to water. Oshkosh, population 67,000, combines the conveniences of a big city with the charm and community feel of a lakeside town. Oshkow’s lively downtown with its cultural activities, museums and galleries adds to the city’s charm.
11. Lake Pettenwell (Arkdale)
Nearest city: Arkdale, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $270,000
population: 200
Arkdale, WI Homes for Sale
Arkdale, WI Apartments for Rent
Lake Pettenwell is the largest man-made lake in Wisconsin and a hidden treasure in the small community of Arkdale. Located just north of Castle Rock Lake, this vast body of water is a paradise for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The lake is surrounded by cozy cabins and homes, making it an ideal place for those seeking a quiet retreat in the heart of nature. The natural beauty of Lake Pettenwell and the community of Arkdale offer a unique and tranquil lakefront living experience.
12. Lake Pewaukee
Nearest city: Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Median home sales price: $552,500
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,012 USD
population: 15,000
Pewaukee, WI Homes for Sale
Apartments for Rent in Pewaukee, WI
Located in the vibrant City of Pewaukee, Lake Pewaukee is a center of activity and community life. The lake is popular for recreational activities such as water skiing, fishing, and sunset cruises, making it a popular destination. The city of Pewaukee, with 15,000 residents, offers a blend of suburban comfort and lakeside living. The downtown area features unique boutiques and waterfront restaurants that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit and community. If you’re looking for a lake in Wisconsin that combines city life with nature, look no further than Pewaukee Lake.
Please note that this list is not a complete list of all lakes in Wisconsin. Median home sales price data from the Redfin data center in April 2024.
