We want to retire on a lake within 11 hours of L.A. by car — our budget is $500K

Dear Kristin,

Living on the water tends to cost a small fortune, and being on the West Coast, rather than in the middle of the country, can keep prices high. But since you’re willing to drive up to 11 hours, your spectrum of potential destinations expands.

Lake Tahoe is out of your price range and may have too much activity for your “quiet lake” goal. There are several lake town options in California, like Clearlake or Chester, but between the algae blooms in the water and the wildfires threatening the slopes, I wouldn’t suggest them.

Here are some options for lakeside living.

Garden City, Utah

The city sits on the shores of Bear Lake and sits on the Idaho border. It is a popular summer destination and is nicknamed “The Caribbean of the Rocky Mountains” because of its intense turquoise water. (The water contains white limestone that reflects the blue color of the water on the surface, giving the lake its unique color.)

The lake is perfect for swimming and water sports, as well as fishing and ice fishing. Nearby, explore Paris Ice Cave or Minnetonka Cave, hike the Limber Pine Trail or bird watch at Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The population of Garden City is about 600, as of 2021, which makes it very small and fairly quiet. If you miss the city vibe, Salt Lake City is about a two-hour drive away.

Saratoga Springs, Utah

Saratoga Springs likes to brag about its beautiful lakefront living on Utah Lake and its laid-back, low-key suburban vibe. With a population of about 37,000, it is much larger than Garden City. Saratoga Springs is halfway between the Provo-Orem and Salt Lake City metropolitan areas.

Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the United States west of the Mississippi River. With an average water temperature of 75 degrees, Utah Lake is a great place for swimming, boating and paddleboarding. Nearby, Saratoga Hot Springs, located on the northwest side of Utah Lake, are natural hot springs accessible year-round.

The population of Saratoga Springs has roughly doubled in the past decade. Still, reviews lament that there isn’t much to do, and many places are closed on Sundays. This may represent just the peace of mind you’re looking for.

If these locations don’t work for you, check out MarketWatch’s “Where’s the Best Place to Retire?” tool here

Readers, where should our couple move? Leave your suggestions in the comments section.

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