Indiana is home to a variety of natural wonders – from the sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park and the falls at McCormick’s Creek State Park to the shores of Lake Michigan. And if you’re living in the heart of Indiana’s plains, you may be looking for a lake home with stunning water views.
At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of the best lakes in Indiana to live on this year. From the bustling shores of Lake Michigan in Michigan City to Lake Monroe’s tranquil waters, each area has its unique charm, perfect for lakeside living.
1. Brookville Lake (Brookville)
Nearest city: Brookville, IN
Median home sale price: $306,500
Population: 2,600
Homes for sale in Brookville, IN
Apartments for rent in Brookville, IN
The first spot on our list of lakes in Indiana to live on is Brookville Lake. This scenic area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by lush parks and trails, like Mounds State Recreation Area, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a serene walk. Nestled in the quaint town of Brookville, it’s a small, welcoming community with a rich history and a tight-knit feel. Its proximity to the lake adds to the charm of living in this town.
2. Eagle Creek Reservoir (Indianapolis)
Nearest city: Indianapolis, IN
Median home sale price: $245,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,237
Population: 880,000
Homes for sale in Indianapolis, IN
Apartments for rent in Indianapolis, IN
Eagle Creek Reservoir is a gem located within the bustling city of Indianapolis. This expansive body of water is a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, and enjoying the great outdoors. The reservoir is adjacent to one of the city’s largest parks, Eagle Creek Park, offering miles of trails, bird-watching areas, and beautiful landscapes. Indianapolis, with its vibrant downtown and popular neighborhoods, provides endless entertainment, dining, and shopping options. Living near Eagle Creek gives residents the best of both worlds – natural beauty and city conveniences.
3. Geist Reservoir (Fishers)
Nearest city: Fishers, IN
Median home sale price: $410,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,616
Population: 101,000
Homes for sale in Fishers, IN
Apartments for rent in Fishers, IN
Geist Reservoir is a haven for water sports and recreation. The reservoir’s clear waters are ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Surrounding the lake, residents can find luxurious homes and lush landscapes. Geist Reservoir is located near Indianapolis, but the closest city is the suburb of Fishers. Fishers has plenty of parks, local restaurants, golf courses, and shopping centers. Living near Geist Reservoir offers a blend of leisure and luxury, so it’s a great area to consider.
4. Lake Freeman and Lake Shafer (Monticello)
Nearest city: Monticello, IN
Median home sale price: $162,000
Population: 5,300
Homes for sale in Monticello, IN
Apartments for rent in Monticello, IN
Lake Freeman and Lake Shafer border the south and north end of Monticello, offering residents twice the waterfront activities. These lakes are perfect for those who love water skiing, fishing, and leisurely boat rides. Monticello, with its charming downtown and friendly community, provides a cozy backdrop to these aquatic playgrounds. The area is also home to Indiana Beach Amusement Park, adding another layer of excitement to living in Monticello. With its beautiful lakefront houses and a laid-back lifestyle, it’s an ideal spot for those wanting to live by the water.
5. Lake Michigan (Michigan City)
Nearest city: Michigan City, IN
Median home sale price: $163,950
Average 1-bedroom rent: $822
Population: 31,000
Homes for sale in Michigan City, IN
Apartments for rent in Michigan City, IN
Located along Lake Michigan’s southern shore is Michigan City with its stunning beauty and endless recreational opportunities. The city’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset watching. Michigan City is also home to the Washington Park Zoo and the Old Lighthouse Museum, showcasing the area’s history. The city’s vibrant arts scene and shopping districts, including the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, offer something for everyone. Living in Michigan City means enjoying the tranquility of lake life with the convenience of city amenities.
6. Lake Monroe (Bloomington)
Nearest city: Bloomington, IN
Median home sale price: $307,750
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,232
Population: 80,000
Homes for sale in Bloomington, IN
Apartments for rent in Bloomington, IN
Lake Monroe is the largest lake in Indiana and a central feature of Bloomington’s landscape. This vast reservoir offers boating, fishing, and swimming, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Hoosier National Forest. Bloomington, home to Indiana University, is a lively town with a stellar arts scene, including music, theater, and galleries. The city’s dining options, bustling downtown, and community events make it a great place to live. Even though Bloomington is slightly north of Lake Monroe, this area is great for enjoying a lake day.
7. Lake Wawasee (Syracuse)
Nearest city: Syracuse, IN
Median home sale price: $185,000
Population: 3,000
Homes for sale in Syracuse, IN
Apartments for rent in Syracuse, IN
Lake Wawasee is Indiana’s largest natural lake, filled with islands, bays, marinas, and beaches. This beautiful lake is a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water skiing during the summer. The surrounding area is dotted with cozy cottages and luxurious waterfront homes, making it a great location for both seasonal and year-round living. Syracuse has a small-town charm with local shops, restaurants, and community events. The lake creates a peaceful escape and easy access to recreational activities for residents to enjoy.
8. Mississinewa Lake (Somerset)
Nearest city: Somerset, IN
Median home sale price: $191,000
Population: 290
Homes for sale in Somerset, IN
Apartments for rent in Somerset, IN
Mississinewa Lake is a hidden gem located in central Indiana. It’s a serene lake with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities at parks like Miami State Recreation Area. The lake is part of a larger reservoir system designed for flood control and has become a popular destination for fishing, camping, and hiking. The small village of Somerset has a peaceful rural lifestyle with the benefits of lake proximity. The surrounding area has a rich history, including the Mississinewa 1812 battlefield, which hosts reenactments and events. If you’re looking to live on a lake in Indiana that’s secluded and full of history, then Mississinewa Lake may be for you.
9. Morse Reservoir (Cicero)
Nearest city: Cicero, IN
Median home sale price: $279,000
Population: 5,300
Homes for sale in Cicero, IN
Apartments for rent in Cicero, IN
Located in Cicero, Morse Reservoir offers boating, fishing, and waterside dining. The reservoir is surrounded by homes with stunning water views, parks like Morse Park & Beach, and golf courses, making it a great place to live. Cicero, the nearest town, is known for its welcoming atmosphere, golf clubs, and local restaurants. Cicero’s small-town charm, combined with the Morse Reservoir’s recreational opportunities creates a perfect blend of leisure and lifestyle.
10. Patoka Lake (French Lick)
Nearest city: French Lick, IN
Median home sale price: $200,000
Population: 1,800
Homes for sale in French Lick, IN
Apartments for rent in French Lick, IN
If you’re looking for a hidden gem located in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest, then consider Patoka Lake. A scenic reservoir near French Lick, Patoka Lake offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area around the lake is known for its natural beauty and is amazing for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you’re exploring Patoka Lake Nature Center or hiking along the trails. French Lick is a historic resort town famous for its mineral springs, luxury resorts, and the French Lick Scenic Railway. The town’s rich history, combined with the recreational opportunities at Patoka Lake, makes it an awesome destination.
11. Raccoon Lake (Rockville)
Nearest city: Rockville, IN
Median home sale price: $180,000
Population: 2,500
Homes for sale in Rockville, IN
Apartments for rent in Rockville, IN
Raccoon Lake, also known as Cecil M. Harden Lake, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake’s clear waters and natural surroundings provide a peaceful retreat from busy city life. Rockville, the nearest town, is part of Parke County, which is famous for its covered bridges and hosts an annual festival, the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, celebrating these historic structures. The town’s quaint downtown area, combined with Raccoon Lake’s activities, makes it an ideal place for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Indiana. 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.
