If you’re considering having a second home in Florida and don’t want to break the bank, this article is for you! There are plenty of benefits to owning a lakefront home in this state. You might consider renting out this home for extra income or use it as a vacation spot! Florida is one of the few states that has no state income taxes, so it makes it a popular state for vacationing or retiring. If you want to make a second home in Florida, you might consider a lakefront property in one of these locations!
1. Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a great spot for a second home in Florida! This small town has beautiful murals that adorn the buildings downtown. Besides spending time on the lake, there are plenty of other fun activities around town. The Annual Caladium Festival brings in arts and crafts vendors, competitions, and car shows. There’s a beautiful, small museum and an annual Grape Stomp in August. Enjoy the small-town vibes, local restaurants, as well as the scenic Lake June Park. The cost of living is lower than the nation’s average, so you won’t break the bank by living here.
2. Lake Apopka
If you’re looking for a more populated area, Lake Apopka has a pretty decent-sized population of about 55,000 residents. It is the fourth-largest lake in all of Florida and a popular place to spend time. If you enjoy hiking or biking, there are plenty of trails that you can explore. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is also a great way to take a look at the local wetlands! Paddleboarding and guided kayak tours are some of the best ways to tour this beautiful lake! It’s incredibly affordable to live here, and it has the perfect balance between urban amenities and nature.
3. Lake Tarpon
You will find Lake Tarpon in the west-central region of Florida, only ten miles outside of Tampa! This is a favorite spot for many recreationists. This developed lakeshore is still very affordable, so that you will find a good home for your specific needs. You can join a local sailing club, as there are several marinas available where you can dock or repair your boat. Fishing is a big draw for many folks because his lake is one of the top lakes in the world for bass. Fine fine dining, performance arts, and varied nightlife are all within reach.
4. Lake Okeechobee
Did you know that there are over 450,000 acres of water in Lake Okeechobee? This large body of water is believed to have formed about 6,000 years ago! You can come here for fishing, as there are several major fishing tournaments here throughout the year. The scenic hiking trails are also a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts, where you can catch glimpses of the beautiful local wildlife. There are plenty of homes surrounding this lake that might surprise you when it comes to how affordable they are!
5. Lake Eustis
Lake Eustis is part of a chain of lakes with plenty of options when it comes to housing. This unsung gem is the perfect spot for your second home! Reaching nearly 8,000 acres, this body of water is the central link of the Harris Chain of Lakes. Once considered only a place for retirees, plenty of young families and artists have taken up residence here. Eustis has plenty of attractions, including historical features, arts, live entertainment, and plenty of shopping hotspots. This is because the area was originally developed to be a tourist attraction. There are many options for housing, too!
Summary of the Most Affordable Lakes in Florida to Buy a Second Home
Rank | Lake |
---|---|
1 | Lake Placid |
2 | Lake Apopka |
3 | Lake Tarpon |
4 | Lake Okeechobee |
5 | Lake Harris |
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