Georgia’s natural landscape offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, coastal cities like Savannah, and lakes like Lake Lanier. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a lakefront home in Georgia, this is the place for you.
This year, Redfin has compiled nine of the best lakes to live in Georgia. From the majesty of Blue Ridge Lake to the charm of Lake Seminole, Georgia has a variety of lakefront properties to suit every taste and budget. Read on to see which lakeside towns made the list.
1. Lake Blue Ridge (Blue Ridge)
Nearest city: Blue Ridge, Georgia
Median home sales price: $624,000
population: 1,400
Homes for Sale in Blue Ridge, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Blue Ridge, Georgia
First on our list of the best lakes to live in Georgia is Lake Blue Ridge. The lake is located in the lush Chattahoochee National Forest and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing and boating. Just a short distance away, the town of Blue Ridge is known for its vibrant arts scene, unique shopping experiences and the famous Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad. It offers a tranquil environment for homebuyers looking to settle in the area permanently, or for those looking to escape city life and find a second home.
2. Carter’s Lake (Ellijay)
Nearest city: Ellijay, Georgia
Median home sales price: $437,000
population: 1,800
Homes for Sale in Ellijay, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Ellijay, Georgia
Known for its pristine beauty and deep, clear waters, Carters Lake is the deepest reservoir in the state and attracts everyone from anglers to kayakers who want to enjoy its pristine environment. The surrounding area is also a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking the Appalachian Trail or exploring the nearby vast national forests. The nearest town, Ellijay is also known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia” due to its annual apple festival that draws visitors from all over the state. Natural beauty and local events combine to make Ellijay a great lakeside town to live in.
3. Lake Chatuge (Hiawassee)
Nearest city: Hiawassee, Georgia
Median home sales price: $378,000
population: 900
Homes for Sale in Hiawassee, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Hiawassee, Georgia
Lake Chatuge is set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia and North Carolina. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for fishing, boating, water skiing and swimming. Nearby, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds hosts events throughout the year that celebrate the region’s rich culture and history. The nearest village is Hiawassee has several local shops and restaurants, and you can also hike nearby Bell Mountain and take in the gorgeous views of Lake Chatuge.
4. Lake Allatoona (Acworth)
Nearest city: Acworth, Georgia
Median home sales price: $372,500
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,293
population: 23,000
Homes for Sale in Acworth, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Acworth, Georgia
Lake Allatoona offers a variety of recreational activities, from boating to camping, on its expansive waters and in the surrounding parks. For example, Lake Allatoona has countless green spaces to explore, including Red Top Mountain State Park, George Washington Carver Park, and Fields Landing Park. Known as the “City of Lakes,” Acworth offers residents a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures. The city’s historic downtown area is filled with charming boutiques and locally-owned eateries, complementing Lake Allatoona’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Outdoor activities and amenities combine to make Acworth a great lakeside town.
5. Lake Hartwell (Reed Creek)
Nearest city: Reed Creek, Georgia
Median home sales price: $1,270,000
population: 2,700
Homes for Sale in Reed Creek, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Reed Creek, Georgia
Lake Hartwell borders Georgia and South Carolina and is a popular lake for residents of both states. The lake’s extensive shoreline offers a variety of water sports, and the surrounding area is perfect for golfing, hiking and outdoor exploration. There are many small communities along the lake, including Reed Creek. Towns offer a variety of activities, from boat launches and local restaurants to campgrounds and Lake Hartwell wildlife safaris.
6. Lake Lanier (Gainesville)
Nearest city: Gainesville, Georgia
Median home sales price: $416,000
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,737
population: 44,000
Homes for Sale in Gainesville, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Gainesville, Georgia
Lake Lanier is a large lake that offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a popular destination year-round. Numerous towns and cities surround the lake, offering plenty of activities. One of the major cities is Gainesville is located on the eastern side of the lake and has a vibrant downtown filled with shops, waterfront restaurants and parks, including Lanier Point Park and Longwood Park. If you’re looking for a lake in Georgia with all the amenities you need for easy living, Lake Lanier is the place to be.
7. Lake Sinclair (Milledgeville)
Nearest city: Milledgeville, Georgia
Median home sales price: $149,000
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $750
population: 19,000
Homes for Sale in Milledgeville, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Milledgeville, Georgia
Lake Sinclair is located in central Georgia near the town of Milledgeville. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for fishing, boating or a relaxing day on the water. Lake Sinclair is also close to Oconee National Forest, which offers over 850 miles of trails, campgrounds, rivers and beautiful overlooks. Milledgeville is rich in history and features a unique mix of historic homes and architecture, as well as locally-owned restaurants serving innovative cuisine.
8. Lake Seminole (Bainbridge)
Nearest city: Bainbridge, Georgia
Median home sales price: $80,500
population: 13,000
Homes for Sale in Bainbridge, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in Bainbridge, Georgia
Lake Seminole is a popular spot for fishing, boating, bird watching and a peaceful retreat. Located on the Georgia-Florida border, the lake offers easy access to both states. Lake Seminole is home to Seminole State Park, which features wildlife viewing areas, campgrounds, coves, swimming and waterskiing spots. The nearest city is Bainbridge is known for its Southern hospitality and charming downtown filled with locally owned shops, restaurants and historic homes.
9. West Point Lake (LaGrange)
Nearest city: LaGrange, Georgia
Median home sales price: $187,450
Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $795
population: 30,000
Homes for Sale in LaGrange, Georgia
Apartments for Rent in LaGrange, Georgia
West Point Lake is a beautiful place to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping and hiking. The lake’s extensive shoreline offers plenty of places for relaxation and recreation, including Sunny Point Recreation Area and Yellow Jacket Beach. The city of LaGrange combines small-town charm with big-city convenience. The community is known for its cultural institutions, including the LaGrange Museum of Art and Sweetland Amphitheatre, located in the historic downtown. The combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities and amenities make LaGrange and West Point Lake a great choice for lakeside living in Georgia.
This list is not exhaustive of all lakes in Georgia. Redfin Data Center Median Home Sales Price Data for April 2024. Rent.com April 2024. Population data is U.S. Census Bureau.
