Best States to Buy Lakefront Land
- Craig Kaiser
- May 6
- 6 min read
Owning lakefront land is a dream for many, offering serene views, recreational activities, and a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life. However, finding the best location to invest in lakefront property can be overwhelming, as each state offers unique advantages. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or a prime spot for water-based adventures, this guide highlights the top states where you can make your lakefront dreams a reality.
What Makes a Lakefront Property Good?
With countless lakefront properties available for sale nationwide and many reasons to invest in waterfront properties, finding the perfect setting is essential. When choosing a waterfront property, keep these important factors in mind:
Lake Quality: First and foremost, the quality of the lake itself plays a significant role. A clean, well-maintained lake with clear water and healthy ecosystems adds immense value to the property. Lakefront properties should also feature a sturdy shoreline, as erosion or flooding issues could diminish its appeal and long-term usability.
Location: The location of the lakefront property is critical- accessibility to nearby towns, amenities, and essential services can greatly enhance convenience and livability.
Climate: Select a lake that aligns with your ideal climate. For warm-weather activities, consider a waterfront home in Florida, Georgia, or Texas. If you’re seeking a location that offers both summer fun and winter adventures, states like Minnesota and Michigan are excellent choices.
Privacy: Privacy is another key consideration; properties with natural buffers or located in less crowded areas often offer a more peaceful and serene environment.
Recreational Activities: Finally, recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, or swimming contribute to the overall desirability of the lakefront property.
Price: Waterfront acreage is highly sought after nationwide, causing prices to rise. However, factors such as the economy, location, and available water activities can make certain areas more affordable.
Best States to Buy Lakefront Land
The best states to buy lakefront land in the U.S. are Florida, Michigan, Texas, Tennessee, and Minnesota.
1) Florida
While Florida is famous for its coastline beaches, the Sunshine State also offers plenty of lakefront land perfect for a vacation home or year-round residence. Crescent Lake, located inland from the Palm Coast area, is a serene retreat ideal for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying Florida's lush landscape. The lake is surrounded by parks, including Haw Creek Preserve State Park, where you can kayak or canoe through scenic cypress trees. Crescent City, the nearest town, is a charming small community with just 1,600 residents, offering a close-knit atmosphere with local shops and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the lake's proximity to nature trails and parks.
Another remarkable destination is Lake Okeechobee, known as Florida's "Liquid Heart," and the largest freshwater lake in the state. Near the small community of Taylor Creek, the lake is a haven for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The 110-mile Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail offers breathtaking views and a path for cyclists and hikers to immerse themselves in the area's natural beauty. Taylor Creek's location near the lake makes it an excellent choice for those seeking peaceful lakefront living. Regardless of which lake you choose, all come with the same perks—Florida's year-round warm climate and easy access to vibrant cities.
2) Michigan
Michigan is home to four of the Great Lakes. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy year-round activities, from lounging on the beach in summer to hitting the slopes in winter. If you’re searching for waterfront property in Michigan, there are some fantastic areas to consider. First is Crystal Lake, located in the city of the same name, which is a true gem within Michigan’s landscape. This peaceful retreat is connected to Lake Michigan and surrounded by smaller lakes, offering a perfect blend of serenity and accessibility. With its clear waters, Crystal Lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and leisurely boat rides. The city itself is rich in natural beauty and charm, featuring local eateries and vibrant neighborhood gatherings.
Another fantastic option is Houghton Lake, situated just south of Higgins Lake. As Michigan’s largest inland lake, Houghton Lake offers a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The surrounding area boasts parks and recreational facilities like Houghton Lake State Forest Park and Houghton Lake Flats. The community here is vibrant and welcoming, with a rich history and plenty to offer, including lakefront restaurants, a golf course, and parks like Houghton Lake Heights Park.
Additionally, Michigan’s cost of living tends to be lower than the national average, making waterfront properties in the state more affordable. With so many beautiful areas to choose from, Michigan’s lakes offer the perfect backdrop for your next adventure or home.
3) Texas
Texas is an excellent destination for waterfront property, offering a wide selection of lakeside plots thanks to its abundance of lakes. The state’s thriving economy also makes land ownership more attainable, further adding to its appeal. The Lake Travis region stands out with its rolling green hills, sparkling blue waters, and over 270 miles of picturesque shoreline. This 18,929-acre lake is a hub for recreation, where residents and visitors alike enjoy fishing, water sports, ziplining, or simply relaxing with loved ones. Surrounding the lake are charming Texas-style neighborhoods, including master-planned communities like Lakeside at Terresa, designed to provide residents with exceptional amenities and convenient lake access. The area also features numerous resorts and marinas, making it a prime location for lakefront living.
Just 16 miles from New Braunfels lies the stunning Canyon Lake, a true jewel of the Texas Hill Country. Surrounded by sought-after neighborhoods like Canyon Lake Hills, Clearwater Estates, Ensenada Shores, and Mt. Lookout & Sunset Terrace, there’s something for everyone here. With home prices ranging from the mid-$200,000s to the upper $800,000s, these communities offer options for all budgets and lifestyles. But the real draw? Living just steps from the breathtaking 8,230-acre lake on the Guadalupe River, where endless outdoor adventures and serene lakeside living await. Whether you're into boating, fishing, or simply soaking up the views, Canyon Lake is the perfect place to call home.
4) Tennessee
Think Tennessee doesn’t have waterside living? This state is an underrated gem with affordable lakefront land. For example, Center Hill Lake is a fantastic destination in Tennessee for those seeking lakefront property. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking along its scenic shores. Situated on the northern edge of the lake is Edgar Evins State Park, where visitors can explore picturesque mountains, breathtaking overlooks, winding trails, and even enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. Nearby, the charming town of Smithville boasts a warm, welcoming community surrounded by stunning landscapes. With its local eateries and quaint shops, Smithville perfectly complements the tranquil appeal of Center Hill Lake.
Nestled near the vibrant city of Hendersonville, Old Hickory Lake offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it another great place to purchase waterfront property in Tennessee. Visitors can explore scenic beaches like Old Hickory Beach, step back in time at Historic Rock Castle, or unwind at picturesque spots such as Two Foot Cove. Its close proximity to Nashville allows residents to enjoy the peaceful charm of lake life while staying connected to the energy of city culture. Hendersonville itself boasts a rich musical heritage, along with a diverse array of dining and entertainment options, making it a truly unique destination.
5) Minnesota
Minnesota is another one of the best states to purchase lakefront land in the U.S. This state offers year-round activities for every outdoor enthusiast, from ice fishing in the winter to watersports and golf in the warmer months. Powderhorn Lake is a hidden gem for an affordable waterside retreat. Located in the Powderhorn community of Minneapolis, this 11-acre lake offers an escape from urban life. It’s a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with a serene environment and a restored shoreline that doubles as a wildlife habitat. Visitors can stroll along the paved trail circling the lake, enjoying scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Homes near Powderhorn Lake range from $200,000 to $600,000, making it an appealing option for those seeking nature close to the city. Whether you’re into fishing, nature, or just a quiet retreat, Powderhorn Lake has something special.
If you're looking to escape the bustle of city life without leaving the Twin Cities, Lake of the Isles is the perfect retreat. Nestled in the Calhoun Isles neighborhood of Minneapolis, this serene lake spans 89 acres of pristine land and boasts 3.39 miles of picturesque shoreline. Renowned for its rich and diverse fish population, Lake of the Isles is a haven for anglers and nature lovers alike. With a maximum depth of 31 feet, the lake is home to species such as black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, northern pike, sunfish, and muskellunge, among others. Additionally, its year-round abundance of fish and tranquil beauty offer a refreshing escape right in the heart of the city.
How to Find Lakefront Properties for Sale
If all these places sound like paradise, how do you choose the right one? There are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about investment potential. Are you planning to sell the property later or use it as a vacation rental? Waterfront homes can be solid investments, often going up in value or bringing in passive income. Next, check out online tools like LandApp.com to browse listings in the areas you’re interested in. This makes it easy to compare properties and see what activities each region offers. Once you’ve narrowed it down, connect with a good real estate agent to guide you through the buying process.
Looking for lakefront property anywhere in the United States? Visit LandApp's marketplace! Our powerful search tools make it simple to explore listings in your preferred states. Easily filter by acreage, price, location, and more to discover the perfect property for your needs.
