Ask anyone living in the communities around Okoboji Lake and they will tell you that they live in one of the best places in the country.
The reasons why Okoboji Lake is the perfect place to call home are endless. If you’re considering relocating to this region, here are some of the great things you can look forward to!
Scenic Beauty
The Iowa Great Lakes Region is located in Dickinson County, Iowa. It has a unique chain of lakes, including East Okoboji and West Okoboji, Big Spirit, Upper Gar, Minnewashta, and Lower Gar.
The chain of glacial lakes in Lake Okoboji, Iowa, is a favorite vacation destination for many, offering breathtaking natural beauty and an abundance of recreational opportunities that draw visitors to move here and call this place their new home.
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Community and Lifestyle
Living in Okoboji offers a unique experience every season! Some of the recreational opportunities you can enjoy in the region include fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming, tubing, and paddle boarding.
For the golf aficionados, Okoboji is home to more than 15 golf courses. Seasoned golfers would enjoy a challenging game at the championship Okoboji Gold Disc Golf Course, while beginners might want to play a more relaxed game at the Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.
During the colder months, residents look forward to a weekend full of indoor-outdoor activities like Broom Ball, ATV races, and hockey tournaments hosted by the University of Okoboji Winter Games.
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Real Estate Market
The Okoboji waterfront real estate is some of the best residences in the Midwest, with its sparkling waters, spectacular sunsets, and gorgeous homes sitting on the tranquil shorelines.
Buying a home in Okoboji is one of the best financial investments you can make. The Okoboji lakeshore real estate is limited and consistently increases in value year after year.
As of July 2024, Okoboji homes for sale are priced between $129,000 and $2.9 million. The median listing home price is $309,000, and the median listing home price per square foot is $341. On average, properties in Okoboji, IA, sell after 40 days on the market.
Investing in a home in Okoboji is investing in sunsets and memories your children and grandchildren will want to return to for generations to come.
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Education and Schools
Okoboji Community School District (OCSD) serves the region, along with The Spirit Lake Community School District, which also serves portions of Okoboji, IA. OCSD has three schools with a total of approximately 1,199 students.
Reputable public schools in the region include:
Elementary and Middle Schools
High School
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Transportation and Accessibility
There are several public transportation options available to both locals and visitors, making it easy to get around Okoboji and its surrounding areas.
The Dickinson Area Transportation System (DATS) operates scheduled buses around town. It also provides longer routes to nearby destinations like Sioux City and Fort Dodge.
For those who prefer to use their own vehicles, there are ample parking lots available throughout Okoboji that offer easy access to all the main attractions.
Safety and Security
The crime rates in Okoboji, IA, are significantly lower compared to the national average.
The property crime rate in Okoboji is at 14.2. This is significantly lower than the national average of 35.4. This means that residents and those visiting Okoboji can feel safe and secure in their community.
Additionally, the violent crime rate in Okoboji is 11.9, while the national average is 22.7.
Credit: Image by Pablo Merchán Montes | Unsplash
Dining and Shopping
Locals enjoy relaxing dinners by the lakeside, as several restaurants offer outside seating.
The Okoboji Store, serving Iowa comfort food, is the ultimate lakeside dining destination, with three levels of outside seating, a comfy couch mezzanine level, and a playground for kids. If you are coming by boat, they also offer valet boat parking on weekends.
The Garden’s on the lakeside level of The Central Emporium is the perfect spot for breathtaking West Lake sunsets. Dine on their expansive deck and soak in the sights and sounds of West Lake Okoboji.
Bracco World Cafe & Island Bar is a Lake Okoboji hot spot boasting a unique menu and an extensive drink list featuring island favorites. Enjoy delectable cuisine in the veranda patio area, large bar, or beach bar area.
Other popular dining choices in Okoboji that you must try are Snappers, Waterfront Grille & Event Center, and The Barefoot Bar.
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Okoboji also offers a vast selection of shopping options, from boutique shops that offer unique jewelry to furniture stores that sell beautiful home décor.
Visit Bungalow 29 if you’re shopping for clothing items, comfortable shoes, and stylish jewelry.
The West Boutique is the perfect store to buy fashionable swimsuits, shoes, sunglasses, and cover-ups for your next beach adventure.
The Great Lakes Mall is home to several stores offering a wide range of products, from perfumes and jewelry to sporting goods and apparel.
Other shops to explore in Okoboji include The Look Fashions, Fashion Formula, Wild Child, INTERIORS, Spirit Lake Silver and Gold, Barefoot Bar Clothing and Gifts, The Three Sons, Homeology, Mary’s Gift Shoppe, Elements, Arts on 16th, Antiques Etc., and Spirit Lake Antique Mall.
Credit: Image by Maxi am Brunnen | Unsplash
Health and Wellness
Several studies show that living next to water is beneficial for one’s mental and physical health.
Living on the waterside can help lower exposure to air pollution, extreme heat, and noise. It can also motivate residents to increase their physical activity and social engagement. All this can lower stress and aid in alleviating depression.
Note: This image may include elements generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
Conclusion
There you have it – the many reasons why communities around Okoboji Lakes would be the perfect place for you to call home!
Would you like to know more about the homes in the Okoboji, IA area? Feel free to give us a call today at 712 336 4000 or send us an email at team@okobojire.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Okoboji Lake unique?
What makes Okoboji Lake unique is its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, beautiful sandy beaches, and scenic landscapes.
What are the best neighborhoods around Okoboji Lake?
The best neighborhoods in West Lake Okoboji, IA, are:
The North End, Lakeshore Drive, Smith’s Bay, The South End, and The West Side.
The best neighborhoods in East Lake Okoboji, IA, are:
- Moore Lake
- Arthur Heights
- Loch Knolls
- Francis Sites
- Kelley’s Beach
- Bridges Bay
- Chalstrom Beach
- East Oak Estates
- North of the Narrows
- and East Okoboji Beach
How is the real estate market in Okoboji Lake?
As of July 2024, the median listing home price in Okoboji, IA was $309,000. On average, homes in this location sell after 40 days on the market.
What outdoor activities are available at Okoboji Lake?
The most popular things to do in the Lake Okoboji area are boating, water skiing, fishing, and sunbathing.
