New York isn’t just about bustling cities and iconic landmarks – it’s also home to some of the most picturesque lakes. Known for the iconic Finger Lakes region, a set of 11 long and narrow lakes, New York has countless charming lake towns to consider moving to. And with over 7,600 lakes, reservoirs, and ponds, it can be tough to know where to begin.
At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of 12 of the best lakes in New York to live on. From the charming shores of Canandaigua Lake to the majestic views of Lake Placid, there’s a lake for everyone. Let’s dive in and see which lake towns made the list.
1. Canandaigua Lake (Canandaigua)
Nearest city: Canandaigua, NY
Median home sale price: $289,000
Population: 10,300
Homes for sale in Canandaigua, NY
Apartments for rent in Canandaigua, NY
Canandaigua Lake offers a serene lifestyle that blends city life with the tranquility of countryside living. This freshwater gem is an awesome place for swimming, picnicking, and fishing, as it has a rich aquatic life. The lake is flanked by several public parks, including Kershaw Park and Lagoon Park, which provide amenities such as boat launches, picnic areas, and beautiful scenic views. Canandaigua Lake is also known for the Canandaigua Lady, a paddlewheel tour boat offering dining and sightseeing tours. The city of Canandaigua has 10,300 residents and is a mosaic of cultural and natural beauty, making it a picturesque place to call home.
2. Cayuga Lake (Ithaca)
Nearest city: Ithaca, NY
Median home sale price: $398,500
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,984
Population: 31,000
Homes for sale in Ithaca, NY
Apartments for rent in Ithaca, NY
As one of New York’s most cherished lake towns, Cayuga Lake is an idyllic setting for those dreaming of a home by the water. Ithaca is the nearest city, a vibrant community enriched by the surrounding natural beauty of this 50-mile-long lake. Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes, invites outdoor enthusiasts with activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing. The lake’s crown jewel, Cayuga Lake State Park, has amenities like boat ramps and picnic areas. Ithaca’s charm extends beyond the lake with attractions such as the Cornell Botanic Gardens and the bustling Ithaca Commons, where you can enjoy local cuisine and shops.
3. Chautauqua Lake (Jamestown)
Nearest city: Jamestown, NY
Median home sale price: $130,750
Population: 28,000
Homes for sale in Jamestown, NY
Apartments for rent in Jamestown, NY
Chautauqua Lake is a hub for those who love the great outdoors, with ample opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and boating. The area is surrounded by lush trails and parks, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The lake is home to many small communities like Bemus Point, which hosts quaint cafes and stunning water views. Jamestown is the nearest city and is home to the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum and the National Comedy Center. This combination of recreational activities and local attractions makes Chautauqua Lake a great lake in New York to live on.
4. Conesus Lake (Livonia)
Nearest city: Livonia, NY
Median home sale price: $200,000
Population: 1,400
Homes for sale in Livonia, NY
Apartments for rent in Livonia, NY
Conesus Lake is a tranquil retreat near the small town of Livonia, known for its friendly community and scenic landscapes. This lake is a favorite among locals for boating, swimming, fishing, and its annual Fourth of July celebration. Conesus Lake is surrounded by parks and recreational areas, like Vitale Park, where you can enjoy picnics and outdoor activities. Livonia embodies the charm of small-town living while being a stone’s throw away from Conesus Lake’s natural beauty.
5. Keuka Lake (Penn Yan)
Nearest city: Penn Yan, NY
Median home sale price: $170,000
Population: 5,000
Homes for sale in Penn Yan, NY
Apartments for rent in Penn Yan, NY
Keuka Lake, with its unique Y shape, is a gem in the town of Penn Yan, offering breathtaking views and a plethora of water activities. This lake is renowned for its clear waters, ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing, and is a popular tourist destination. The surrounding area is rich in vineyards and wineries, providing you the opportunity to wine taste with scenic lake views. Penn Yan is a quaint town filled with history, local shops, and eateries, reflecting the region’s history.
6. Lake George (Lake George)
Nearest city: Lake George, NY
Median home sale price: $235,000
Population: 900
Homes for sale in Lake George, NY
Apartments for rent in Lake George, NY
Lake George offers an array of activities from boating to hiking in the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. This lake is a haven for those seeking adventure or relaxation, with its crystal-clear waters and numerous islands to explore. The town of Lake George, though small in population, is big in character, hosting events like the annual Americade motorcycle rally and the Lake George Winter Carnival. Its vibrant main street and waterfront area are perfect for leisurely strolls, dining, and enjoying the stunning lake views. Lake George’s combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and community events make it an ideal spot for those looking to live on a lake in New York.
7. Lake Placid (Lake Placid)
Nearest city: Lake Placid, NY
Median home sale price: $765,000
Population: 2,400
Homes for sale in Lake Placid, NY
Apartments for rent in Lake Placid, NY
Lake Placid is in the heart of the Adirondacks – a sanctuary for those who love the outdoors and want a luxurious lakeside lifestyle. This lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, so there are endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and water sports. The village of Lake Placid has rich Olympic history, as the site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Lake Placid provides a unique blend of sports heritage and upscale dining and shopping experiences. It’s a unique village with plenty to explore whether you’re on the lake or in town.
8. Oneida Lake (Brewerton)
Nearest city: Brewerton, NY
Median home sale price: $225,000
Population: 4,700
Homes for sale in Brewerton, NY
Apartments for rent in Brewerton, NY
Oneida Lake is the largest lake entirely within New York State. You can find a vast expanse of water for fishing, boating, and winter sports like ice fishing and snowmobiling. The community of Brewerton, located at the lake’s eastern end, provides a cozy, small-town atmosphere with easy access to the lake’s recreational opportunities. The area is also known for the Brewerton Speedway, giving you plenty to do in town. It’s located northeast of Syracuse, so it’s a great lake in New York to live on if you also commute into the city.
9. Saratoga Lake (Saratoga)
Nearest city: Saratoga Springs, NY
Median home sale price: $599,000
Population: 28,000
Homes for sale in Saratoga Springs, NY
Apartments for rent in Saratoga Springs, NY
Saratoga Lake, with its sparkling waters, is a highlight of Saratoga Springs, known for its rich history. This lake offers a plethora of water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and fishing, making it a popular destination. The city of Saratoga, famous for the Saratoga Race Course and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, provides a lively backdrop to the tranquil lake setting. Saratoga Lake is a perfect choice if you’re looking for lakeside living in a mid-sized city.
10. Skaneateles Lake (Skaneateles)
Nearest city: Skaneateles, NY
Median home sale price: $1,000,000
Population: 2,400
Homes for sale in Skaneateles, NY
Apartments for rent in Skaneateles, NY
Another one of the Finger Lakes, Skaneateles Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and upscale lifestyle. The town of Skaneateles is a picturesque community, with luxury dining, shopping, and markets. This lake is ideal for sailing, swimming, and enjoying the serene beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Skaneateles Lake is the epitome of luxury lakeside living, providing a peaceful retreat with all the amenities located in the quaint town.
11. Seneca Lake (Geneva)
Nearest city: Geneva, NY
Median home sale price: $197,500
Population: 12,000
Homes for sale in Geneva, NY
Apartments for rent in Geneva, NY
Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes by volume, is a paradise for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The city of Geneva, located at the northern tip of the lake, serves as a gateway to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, offering an array of wineries and vineyards along its shores. The lake itself is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and water sports, surrounded by beautiful parks and scenic views. Geneva has plenty of local dining and shopping options, making it a great town for those looking to enjoy lakeside living.
12. Otsego Lake (Cooperstown)
Nearest city: Cooperstown, NY
Median home sale price: $713,000
Population: 1,700
Homes for sale in Cooperstown, NY
Apartments for rent in Cooperstown, NY
Otsego Lake, often referred to as “Glimmerglass” in James Fenimore Cooper’s Leatherstocking Tales, is a picturesque lake offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Cooperstown, the nearest city, is not only famous for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum but also for its proximity to Otsego Lake’s recreational opportunities. The lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and enjoying the region’s scenic beauty. Cooperstown’s small-town charm, combined with the lake’s serene environment, makes it one of the best lakes in New York to live on.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in New York. Median home sale price data is sourced from the Redfin Data Center during August 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com August 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
