As the “Sunshine State,” Florida is known for its abundant sunshine and lush landscapes – and is home to some of the most beautiful lakes. From winding lakes through the Everglades to blue lakes in big cities, there are plenty of places to buy a lake home in Florida. 

At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of the best lakes in Florida to live on this year. From the tranquil shores of Crescent Lake in Crescent City to the expansive waters of Lake Okeechobee in Taylor Creek, each lake has its own charm and appeal. Let’s jump in.

1. Crescent Lake (Crescent City)

Nearest city: Crescent City, FL
Median home sale price: $250,000
Population: 1,600
Homes for sale in Crescent City, FL
Apartments for rent in Crescent City, FL

The first lake in Florida to live on this year is Crescent Lake. Located inland from the Palm Coast area, this serene lake offers a peaceful retreat for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the lush Florida landscape. There are several parks around the perimeter, including Haw Creek Preserve State Park where you can kayak or canoe through the cypress trees. The closest town is Crescent City, a quaint locale with a small-town charm. With only 1,600 residents, Crescent City has a close-knit community atmosphere with its local shops and restaurants. The lake’s proximity to local parks and nature trails makes it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Lake Apopka (Winter Garden)

Nearest city: Winter Garden, FL
Median home sale price: $540,750
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,795
Population: 50,000
Homes for sale in Winter Garden, FL
Apartments for rent in Winter Garden, FL

Lake Apopka is the fourth-largest lake in Florida and offers a plethora of recreational activities such as fishing, bird watching, and boating. The lake is home to alligators, otters, and various migratory birds, so it’s a perfect lake for enjoying Florida’s nature. You can find plenty of parks around the lake like Oakland Nature Preserve, Newton Park, and a loop trail. There are several towns around the lake, but the biggest one is Winter Garden. This Orlando suburb is known for its historic downtown, offering a variety of dining and shopping options, while the West Orange Trail provides cyclists and hikers with scenic views of the lake and its surrounding nature. Lake Apopka’s natural beauty and Winter Garden’s community amenities make it a great lakefront location.

3. Lake Dora (Tavares)

Nearest city: Tavares, FL
Median home sale price: $305,000
Population: 19,000
Homes for sale in Tavares, FL
Apartments for rent in Tavares, FL

Lake Dora is a gem in the city of Tavares, known as America’s Seaplane City. It’s just north of Lake Apopka, so you’ll have easy access to both lakes. Lake Dora is a hub for boating, fishing, and seaplane adventures, offering unique experiences for residents. Tavares itself is a welcoming community with a population of 19,000, featuring waterfront dining and entertainment options. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, like Rocktoberfest, making it a lively place to live.

4. Lake Eustis (Eustis)

Nearest city: Eustis, FL
Median home sale price: $326,000  
Population: 23,000
Homes for sale in Eustis, FL
Apartments for rent in Eustis, FL

Lake Eustis, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes, is situated in the heart of Eustis. This area is perfect for those who love water sports, fishing, and sailing. Ferran Park and the Eustis Lake Walk offer stunning lake views and outdoor activities, right by the water. Eustis, with a population of 23,000, has a historic downtown area that hosts events and festivals. Living in Eustis provides a blend of leisure and adventure, so it’s an awesome lake in Florida to live on this year.

5. Lake George (Pierson)

Nearest city: Pierson, FL
Median home sale price: $167,000
Population: 1,800
Homes for sale in Pierson, FL
Apartments for rent in Pierson, FL

Lake George is the second-largest lake in Florida and offers stunning natural beauty and abundant fishing opportunities. The lake is ideal for boating and fishing enthusiasts, with access to the vast St. Johns River. You can also explore the vast Ocala National Forest, which is home to over 600 lakes, springs, and rivers, and plenty of trails. The nearest town is Pierson, nicknamed the “Fern Capital of the World,” after the surrounding area’s natural beauty. It’s a small town with a population of just 1,800, providing a quiet and peaceful living environment.

6. Lake Harris (Leesburg)

Nearest city: Leesburg, FL
Median home sale price: $310,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,099
Population: 28,000
Homes for sale in Leesburg, FL
Apartments for rent in Leesburg, FL

Lake Harris is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. The lake is known for its abundance of bass and bluegill fishing. The Venetian Gardens Park, located on the shores of Lake Harris, provides residents with picnic areas, walking paths, and stunning lake views, so there’s something for everyone. Leesburg, with a population of 28,000, offers a blend of cultural experiences, including art festivals, music events, and historical museums like the Leesburg Historical Museum. Whether you spend the day in town or on the lake, Lake Harris is a great lake in Florida to live on.

7. Lake Seminole (Seminole)

Nearest city: Seminole, FL
Median home sale price: $373,750
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,295
Population: 19,000
Homes for sale in Seminole, FL
Apartments for rent in Seminole, FL

Lake Seminole, located in the city of Seminole, is a popular lake offering a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. The lake’s proximity to the Gulf beaches and the city’s amenities make it a desirable location for those looking to enjoy Florida’s outdoor lifestyle. Seminole, with its 19,000 residents, is known for its parks, shopping centers, and fun activities. The Seminole City Park, near Lake Seminole, features annual events and concerts, so there’s plenty to do every season.

8. Lake Okeechobee (Taylor Creek)

Nearest city: Taylor Creek, FL
Median home sale price: $215,000
Population: 4,000
Homes for sale in Taylor Creek, FL
Apartments for rent in Taylor Creek, FL

Lake Okeechobee, known as Florida’s “Liquid Heart,” is the largest freshwater lake in the state. Near the small community of Taylor Creek, this lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, about 110 miles, provides breathtaking views and a path for cyclists and hikers to explore the area’s natural beauty. Taylor Creek’s proximity to Lake Okeechobee makes it a great town for those looking for a peaceful lakefront property.

9. Lake Tarpon (Tarpon Springs)

Nearest city: Tarpon Springs, FL
Median home sale price: $491,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,375
Population: 26,000
Homes for sale in Tarpon Springs, FL
Apartments for rent in Tarpon Springs, FL

A 2,500-acre lake, Lake Tarpon is renowned for its bass fishing and water recreation, like swimming and boating. There are countless parks around the perimeter such as John Chesnut Sr. Park, AL Anderson Park, where you’ll find boat launches, trails, picnic areas, and lake views. Situated near the historic city of Tarpon Springs, this town is famous for its sponge docks, Greek cuisine, and festivals. The city’s Fred Howard Park offers beautiful beaches and an opportunity to spot manatees and dolphins.

10. Lake Tohopekaliga (Kissimmee)

Nearest city: Kissimmee, FL
Median home sale price: $369,950
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,657
Population: 80,000
Homes for sale in Kissimmee, FL
Apartments for rent in Kissimmee, FL

Lake Tohopekaliga, often called Lake Toho, is a fisherman’s paradise located in Kissimmee. This lake is famous for its bass fishing tournaments and beautiful waterfront parks. The Lakefront Park on Lake Toho provides scenic views, a fishing pier, and walking paths. The lake is also home to various birds and alligators which you may be able to see on an airboat ride. Living in nearby Kissimmee gives you plenty of attractions, including proximity to Orlando’s theme parks, outdoor adventures, and a colorful downtown area. The combination of Lake Toho’s natural beauty and Kissimmee’s amenities make it a great lake in Florida to live on.

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Florida. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during April 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com April 2024. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.