by Robert Borges on July 11, 2025
Looking to retire on the water without spending a fortune? You're not alone. Many retirees dream of waking up to tranquil lake views, casting a fishing line from their backyard, or taking a sunset kayak ride. But isn’t lakefront property pricey? Surprisingly, no—not always. Across the U.S., there are affordable lakefront retirement communities where active adults can enjoy the benefits of waterfront living without breaking the bank.
For nearly 30 years, Private Communities Registry (PCR) has been the trusted online resource helping retirees and active adults discover their ideal communities. With hundreds of featured communities across the country—many located on or near lakes—we make it easy to search by region, home price, amenities, and lifestyle interests. You can even request information directly from community representatives.
Why Retire on the Lake?
Retiring on a lake offers the ideal blend of relaxation, recreation, and community. According to a recent AARP survey, access to nature and outdoor recreation is a top priority for retirees—and lake communities deliver that in abundance. Additionally, the latest PCR survey of active adult homebuyers saw “lakefront” rank third for type of location they prefer, behind only golf and near the beach.
Benefits of living in a lakefront retirement community:
- Natural beauty and serene water views that enhance emotional well-being
- Outdoor recreation like fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming
- Cooler temperatures and cleaner air, often with less humidity than coastal regions
- Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities
- A tight-knit community with frequent social activities and clubs
What to Expect in Affordable Lakefront Communities
Affordable lake communities aren't just about location—they're about lifestyle and value. Here’s what retirees can typically expect:
- Homes priced under $350,000, often with water access or lake views
- Low property taxes in many states, especially in the Southeast
- Water-based amenities: private marinas, fishing piers, boat ramps, and beaches
- Clubhouses, fitness centers, pools, and in some cases, even golf courses
- An abundance of clubs and social events for active adults and retirees
- Many are gated communities, offering peace of mind and added privacy
Wondering whether it’s better to rent or buy in retirement? Communities featured on PCR offer both options—whether you’re ready to invest in a home or want to test the waters first.
Top Affordable Lakefront Retirement Communities in the U.S.
Here are just a few communities offering affordable lakefront property, starting under $350,000:
Hot Springs Village- Hot Springs Village, AR
Home priced from $100,000
Located in the Ouachita Mountains of West Central Arkansas, Hot Springs Village is the nation’s largest gated community. Spanning 26,000 acres, it boasts 11 recreational lakes, scenic hiking trails, and over 30 miles of shoreline. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching in a peaceful, natural setting. Resort-style amenities include golf courses, fitness centers, and a vibrant social scene.
Eastman- Grantham, NH
Homes priced from $330,000
Set in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, Eastman offers affordable lakefront homes, condos, and wooded lots. The 345-acre lake includes six private beaches and boat docks for residents. Nature trails wind through 3,700 protected acres, and the 18-hole golf course and community recreation center provide year-round entertainment. A true four-season community with stunning New England charm.
Savannah Lakes Village- McCormick, SC
Homes priced from $300,000
Set on the banks of Lake Thurmond, this 4,000-acre community boasts 25 miles of shoreline, two lakefront golf clubs, and access to 63,000+ acres of state park and national forest. Savannah Lakes Village combines affordability with resort living, including tennis, indoor/outdoor pools, a cultural center, and an abundance of clubs and events for an active retirement.
McCord’s Ferry at Lake Marion- Santee, SC
Homes priced from $300,000
Nestled on the shores of South Carolina’s largest freshwater lake, McCord’s Ferry blends lake living with Southern charm. Enjoy private boat ramps, community docks, and nearby Santee State Park. Nature trails, spacious wooded lots, and proximity to Charleston and Columbia make this community ideal for those seeking affordability and convenience.
Fairfield Glade- Crossville, TN
Homes priced from $300,000
Named one of the “50 Best Master-Planned Communities” by Where to Retire magazine, Fairfield Glade in Tennessee features 11 spring-fed lakes, five golf courses, and an equestrian center. Homebuyers enjoy low taxes and association dues, along with indoor/outdoor pools, tennis courts, and scenic lakefront homes in a relaxed mountain setting.
Waterford of the Carolinas- Wilmington, NC
Homes priced from $240,000
This gated North Carolina community is uniquely designed around 17 miles of lakefront shoreline, offering nearly every home a waterfront view. Residents enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing right from their backyard. With low-maintenance homes, custom builds, and a mild year-round climate, Waterford of the Carolinas is one of the Southeast’s best-kept secrets for affordable lakefront retirement.
Cresswind Georgia at Twin Lakes- Hoschton, GA
Homes priced from the $300,000s
This 55+ active adult community near Atlanta features two scenic lakes for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Cresswind Georgia at Twin Lakes offers a clubhouse with a fitness center, swimming pool, and Lifestyle Director-led events. Enjoy the best of North Georgia with easy access to the mountains, lakes, and city amenities.
More Ways to Find Your Ideal Affordable Lake Community
Whether you’re exploring options on your own or wondering how to join a country club near the lake, PCR has the tools to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. You can filter by state, price point, amenities, and home type, and directly request brochures or speak with community reps to get a real feel for each community.
For those considering a coastal retirement communities but still want water access without oceanfront pricing, lakeside living offers an excellent alternative—often at a much lower cost and with fewer weather concerns.
Start Your Lakefront Retirement Search Today
Living by the lake doesn’t have to be a luxury. With so many affordable lakefront retirement communities across the U.S., you can live the waterfront lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of—without sacrificing financial peace of mind.
Explore more communities now, and discover how affordable lake living can truly be.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
