With rugged mountains like the Appalachians, valleys, and prairies, to rivers, caves, and lakes, Alabama has countless natural landscapes to explore. If you’re living in Alabama and are looking to enjoy the state’s nature, there are countless lake towns to consider buying a home in.
To help you find the right area, Redfin has gathered ten of the best lakes in Alabama to live on this year. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling city life near Lake Tuscaloosa or the quiet, charming towns like Wilsonville on Lay Lake, Alabama has a range of lakeside homes to fit every lifestyle and budget. Let’s check them out.
1. Guntersville Lake (Guntersville)
Nearest city: Guntersville, AL
Median home sale price: $324,000
Population: 8,500
Homes for sale in Guntersville, AL
Apartments for rent in Guntersville, AL
The first spot on our list of lakes in Alabama to live on is Guntersville Lake. As the largest lake in Alabama, Guntersville Lake is a haven for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers, with a large population of bass and catfish. The area is surrounded by several public parks, including the popular Guntersville State Park and Sunset Drive Park, which offer amenities like boat launches, hiking trails, and stunning lake views. The lake is also the site of the annual Guntersville Lake HydroFest, drawing visitors from all over. With a small-town charm and a variety of outdoor activities, Guntersville is an ideal spot for those looking to live near water and nature.
2. Lake Harding (Lanett)
Nearest city: Lanett, AL
Median home sale price: $80,000
Population: 6,200
Homes for sale in Lanett, AL
Apartments for rent in Lanett, AL
Lake Harding is a picturesque spot known for its tranquil waters and scenic beauty. This lake is nearly 5,850 acres, so it’s a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking, fishing, and boating. The nearby Lake Harding State Park provides boat ramps, picnic areas, and trails for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. Lanett is the nearest town and has a cozy downtown with unique shops and eateries, making it a perfect blend of lakeside serenity and small-town charm.
3. Lake Tuscaloosa (Tuscaloosa)
Nearest city: Tuscaloosa, AL
Median home sale price: $244,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $925
Population: 102,000
Homes for sale in Tuscaloosa, AL
Apartments for rent in Tuscaloosa, AL
Lake Tuscaloosa is located in the historic city of Tuscaloosa and is a relaxing spot for residents. This lake offers a plethora of activities, from fishing and boating to picnicking along its shores. The surrounding area is dotted with parks and trails, including the popular Treasure Island County Park, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Tuscaloosa, home to the University of Alabama, is a lively town with its events, dining, and shopping options. If you’re looking for a lake town with access to city amenities, then Tuscaloosa may be for you.
4. Lake Martin (Dadeville)
Nearest city: Dadeville, AL
Median home sale price: $155,000
Population: 3,200
Homes for sale in Dadeville, AL
Apartments for rent in Dadeville, AL
Lake Martin is a popular lake for those looking for a peaceful nature retreat. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vast shoreline, the lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The area is enriched with natural beauty, housing the Wind Creek State Park, which offers camping sites, hiking trails, and boat ramps. Dadeville, a quaint town nearby, is known for its friendly community and annual events, making it a great place for potential homebuyers looking for a lake home.
5. Lay Lake (Wilsonville)
Nearest city: Wilsonville, AL
Median home sale price: $206,000
Population: 2,000
Homes for sale in Wilsonville, AL
Apartments for rent in Wilsonville, AL
Lay Lake is renowned for its bass fishing tournaments and pristine waters – ideal for water sports. The lake’s shoreline is dotted with homes and parks, such as Beeswax Creek Park, offering boat launches, fishing piers, and picnic areas. Wilsonville is the nearest small town where you’ll find a few markets. The area is about an hour away from Birmingham, so it’s not too far from the big city. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a permanent move, be sure to check out Lay Lake.
6. Lewis Smith Lake (Cullman)
Nearest city: Cullman, AL
Median home sale price: $239,158
Average 1-bedroom rent: $797
Population: 16,000
Homes for sale in Cullman, AL
Apartments for rent in Cullman, AL
Located in the Bankhead National Forest, Lewis Smith Lake has clear waters for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests, making it a perfect spot for hiking and bird-watching. Nearby, the city of Cullman offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities, with attractions like the Cullman County Museum and the annual Oktoberfest celebration. This combination of natural beauty and small-town charm makes Lewis Smith Lake a great lake in Alabama to live on.
7. Logan Martin Lake (Riverside)
Nearest city: Riverside, AL
Median home sale price: $235,000
Population: 2,500
Homes for sale in Riverside, AL
Apartments for rent in Riverside, AL
Logan Martin Lake, affectionately known as the “Lake of a Thousand Coves,” is a picturesque spot for Alabamans to enjoy the outdoors. This lake is a hotspot for boating, skiing, and fishing, with numerous coves and inlets to explore. The surrounding area is home to several parks and recreational areas, like Logan Martin Lake Park, providing residents with lots of outdoor activities. Riverside has a quiet, laid-back lifestyle with easy access to larger cities, like Birmingham, for shopping and entertainment.
8-9. Pickwick Lake and Wilson Lake (Florence)
Nearest city: Florence, AL
Median home sale price: $235,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $675
Population: 40,000
Homes for sale in Florence, AL
Apartments for rent in Florence, AL
Pickwick Lake and Wilson Lake, located on either side of Florence, offer countless activities to its residents. These lakes are renowned for their exceptional bass fishing, water sports, and scenic beauty. The area has several parks and recreational facilities, including McFarland Park and Joe Wheeler State Park, offering camping, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Don’t miss out on checking out the Wilson Dam Waterfall on the south side of Pickwick Lake. Florence, a city rich in history, hosts a variety of events and festivals, so it’s a great spot for those looking for a busy town along the water.
10. Wheeler Lake (Rogersville)
Nearest city: Rogersville, AL
Median home sale price: $292,000
Population: 1,200
Homes for sale in Rogersville, AL
Apartments for rent in Rogersville, AL
Wheeler Lake is a perfect spot to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature – and there are plenty of small towns and bigger cities to call home along its shores. This expansive lake is ideal for fishing, boating, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The nearby Joe Wheeler State Park offers amenities such as marinas, hiking trails, and golf courses, catering to a wide range of interests. Rogersville, with its small-town charm and friendly community, provides a tranquil backdrop for a lakeside lifestyle. If you’re looking for a bigger city to call home, then be sure to check out the lakefront homes in Decatur.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Alabama. 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.
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