Nicknamed the “Buckeye State,” after the Buckeye trees throughout the state, Ohio is home to a range of landscapes, from forests and falls to rivers and lakes. And if you’ve dreamed of owning a waterfront property in Ohio, we’ve got lake towns for you to explore.
At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of 11 lakes in Ohio to live on this year. From the big cities along the shores of Lake Erie to the hidden gems in the heart of the state, you’ll find plenty of lake towns in Ohio. Let’s jump in and see which ones made the list.
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The first spot on our list of lakes in Ohio to live on is Alum Creek Lake. This expansive body of water is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities such as boating, fishing, and serene walks along its shores. The surrounding area is dotted with parks, including Alum Creek State Park, which boasts amenities like a beach, boat launches, and picnic areas. The lake’s proximity to Lewis Center ensures that residents have easy access to urban conveniences while enjoying the tranquility of lakeside living. Alum Creek Lake is a great choice for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and suburban comfort.
Atwood Lake is a picturesque area located in northeastern Ohio, near the quaint town of Dellroy. This lake stretches across the landscape, providing residents with a tranquil escape. Atwood Lake is a great spot for fishing, sailing, and simply soaking in the serene views. Home to just about 350 residents, Dellroy provides a cozy, tight-knit community atmosphere. The town is also home to Atwood Lake Park, a popular spot for camping, hiking, and enjoying outdoor concerts.
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Formed in 1826, Buckeye Lake is a 31,000-acre lake, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. This historic reservoir is Ohio’s oldest state park and has activities ranging from boating to bird watching. The community around Buckeye Lake has a population of 2,500 and thrives on the water-centric lifestyle. The city itself is rich in history, local shops, wineries, and lakefront diners, making it a unique place to call home.
Caesar Creek Lake has pristine waters and lush landscapes, making it a great spot for boating. This area is a paradise for nature lovers, with the Caesar Creek State Park providing a backdrop for hiking, bird-watching, horseback riding, and fossil hunting. The nearest village is Harveysburg, home to about 550 people, so it’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Harveysburg also hosts the Ohio Renaissance Festival during the fall months, attracting visitors to this picturesque lake town.
Grand Lake St. Marys is a vast expanse of water, great for recreation and relaxation. As Ohio’s largest inland lake, it draws residents with its opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside picnicking. There are a few towns along the shores including Celina. This area has a small-town charm with the amenities needed for lakeside living, including waterfront restaurants, local shops, markets, and parks.
Hoover Reservoir has a picturesque setting within the city of Westerville. This reservoir is a focal point for community life, offering peaceful walks, fishing, and sailing opportunities. For example, you can enjoy a day at Hoover Reservoir Park, hike along the Hoover Dam Nature Trail, or golf at one of the lakefront courses. Westerville, with its 41,000 residents, combines the best of suburban living with access to natural beauty. It’s also relatively close to Columbus, making it a great lake in Ohio to live on.
Indian Lake is a haven for those looking for a more remote lake to call home. Known for its scenic beauty and leisure activities, the lake offers boating, fishing, and water sports. It’s particularly popular during the summer months, as there are plenty of fishing contents and beachside activities. Russells Point is the nearest village with just about 1,400 residents. The town has several local restaurants, quaint shops, and plenty of boat launches, making it easy to access the lake.
Lake Erie graces the northern border of Cleveland, offering majestic views and endless recreational opportunities. As one of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie provides Cleveland residents with activities such as boating, fishing, and beach-going. The city itself is a cultural hub with landmarks like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Westside Market, Edgewater Park, and charming Cleveland neighborhoods to explore. Cleveland and Lake Erie blend city conveniences with the tranquility of lakeside living, so it’s a great city to call home.
Mosquito Creek Lake, located near the city of Cortland, is a destination for those who cherish the outdoors and the myriad activities it offers. This lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Cortland has a population of 6,900 and provides a welcoming community atmosphere alongside Mosquito Creek Lake’s natural beauty. The lake’s surrounding parks, like Lakeview Recreation Area, ensure that residents have plenty of options for outdoor enjoyment, making it a perfect blend of community and nature.
Portage Lakes offers a unique living experience with its interconnected series of lakes within the community of Portage Lakes. This area is a paradise for water enthusiasts, featuring activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. With a population of 7,000, the community maintains a friendly, small-town vibe. From its country clubs and local markets to waterfront restaurants and a variety of waterfront properties, Portage Lakes is truly an awesome lake in Ohio to live on.
Senecaville Lake is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat. This lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and enjoying the serene beauty of nature. There are plenty of hiking areas around Senecaville Lake or you can camp on a warm summer night. The nearest town is Senecaville, home to about 450 people. If you’re looking for a rural escape, then moving to Senecaville might be the right choice.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Ohio. 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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Alison is part of the Content Marketing team as a Content Marketing Manager. In her 5 years at Redfin, Alison has written a variety of articles ranging from home design tips to housing affordability. A California-native, Alison currently resides in Seattle where you can find her catching a concert or exploring farmers’ markets. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.
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