Nevada’s scenery is some of the most expansive, from the stunning coast to Lake Tahoe, the sandstones of Valley of Fire State Park, and the desert backdrop of Lake Mead. The state is home to a large number of lakes, perfect for enjoying Nevada’s natural beauty. So if you’re looking for a lakeside town to call home, you’ve come to the right place.
Redfin has compiled a list of 7 popular lakes in Nevada this year. From majestic Lake Tahoe and its crystal clear waters to hidden gem Topaz Lake and its breathtaking views, there’s a Nevada lake for you. Listed in alphabetical order, let’s see which lakeside towns in Nevada made the list.
1. Lahontan Reservoir (Silver Spring)
Nearest city: Silver Spring, Nevada
Median home sales price: $390,000
population: 6,500
Silver Spring Homes for Sale
Silver Spring Apartments for Rent
Lahontan Reservoir is first on our list of the best lakes to live in Nevada. Located on the edge of Silver Springs, Lahontan Reservoir is a peaceful getaway with its vast waters and scenic views. Lahontan Reservoir is a great place for anglers and boaters, whether you’re exploring the Lahontan State Recreation Area, enjoying one of the beaches like Silver Springs Beach, Or take a boat trip to the sea. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities here, and you can enjoy everything from fishing to camping along the coast. Silver Springs has a community feel and has all the necessities of lakeside living, such as local restaurants and a regional airport.
2. Lake Mead (Boulder City)
Nearest city: Boulder City, Nevada
Median home sales price: $385,000
Average rent for one bedroom: $1,060
population: 16,000
Boulder City Homes for Sale
Boulder City Apartments for Rent
As one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, Lake Mead offers a wealth of recreational activities against the backdrop of its stunning desert setting. The nearest city, Boulder City, is the gateway to this popular lake, where residents can boat, fish, and swim. The city itself is rich in history and charm, with a variety of attractions, from museums like the Nevada Railroad Museum Boulder City and the Boulder City Hoover Dam Museum to the Hoover Dam, the historic Town Square and Robert · Overlook of L. Mendenhall Scenic Area. Its proximity to Lake Mead makes it a great lakeside town in Nevada.
3. Lake Tahoe (Incline Village)
Nearest city: Incline Village, Nevada
Median home sales price: $1,362,500
population: 8,000
Incline Village Homes for Sale
Apartments for rent in Incline Village
This list wouldn’t be complete without including the famous Lake Tahoe. The lake is known for its clear waters and stunning mountain views, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located on its north shore, Incline Village is a community that blends luxury living with unparalleled recreational opportunities. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and beach activities in the summer, there’s always something to do. Don’t miss enjoying Lake Tahoe’s beaches, famous restaurants, stunning trails like the Tahoe East Shore Trail, or golfing at Incline Village Championship Golf Course.
4. South Fork Reservoir (Spring Creek)
Nearest city: spring creek nevada
Median home sales price: $350,000
population: 13,000
Spring Creek Homes for Sale
Spring Creek Apartments for Rent
South Fork Reservoir is a hidden gem just outside of Spring Creek, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This reservoir is great for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the tranquil Nevada scenery. South Fork Reservoir is also a great place to camp or explore the South Fork State Recreation Area. Spring Creek offers a friendly community atmosphere and the natural beauty of the reservoir. Both areas are close to the larger city of Elko, where you’ll find a quaint downtown with many shops and restaurants, the Northeastern Nevada Museum, and a regional airport.
5. Topaz Lake
Nearest city: Topaz Lake, Nevada
Median home sales price: $960,000
population: 200
Homes for sale in Topaz Lake
Apartment for rent in Huangyu Lake
Ranking fifth on the list of livable lakes in Nevada is Topaz Lake. Located south of Lake Tahoe along the Nevada-California border, Topaz Lake is a picturesque lake known for its fishing, boating, and stunning views. The small community of Topaz Lake offers a secluded living experience and is a great option for those looking for a remote lakefront home. This lake is fantastic for those looking for a quiet life amidst the majestic scenery of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Be sure to explore mountain trails like Leviathan Peak, Curtz Mine and Desert Creek Peak.
6. Walker Lake
Nearest city: Walker Lake, Nevada
Median home sales price: $367,000
population: 380
Walker Lake Homes for Sale
Walker Lake Apartments for Rent
Walker Lake combines natural beauty with solitude, making it an ideal place for those seeking to connect with nature. The lake is a great place for swimming, boating or water skiing, or you can explore the Walker Lake Recreation Area for a picnic. Walker Lake is also a popular area for camping and bird watching. The small community of Walker Lake offers residents a peaceful setting with a sparkling expanse of lake as its backdrop.
7. Washoe Lake (Washoe Valley)
Nearest city: Washoe Valley, Nevada
Median home sales price: $615,000
population: 14,100
Washoe Valley Homes for Sale
Washoe Valley Apartments for Rent
Washoe Lake is the final area on our list of the best lakes to live in Nevada this year. Located in the scenic Washoe Valley, Washoe Lake is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Its wide range of activities includes windsurfing, sailing and hiking, catering to adventurers and nature lovers alike. The Washoe Valley community blends rural charm with convenient city amenities, making it a sought-after location for those who want the best of both worlds. For example, you have easy access to Carson City, Reno, and Incline Village, so you’re never far away from a new adventure.
Please note that this list is not a complete list of all lakes in Nevada. 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.
