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s the mercury rises, families are itching to escape the heat and make some unforgettable memories. But where's the perfect destination? For many, it's a no-brainer: lake or beach? In Alabama, the pendulum is swinging towards freshwater properties, particularly those surrounding Lake Martin. Realtor Lacey Howell notes that while the beach has its allure, convenience often wins out for busy families. "It takes five hours to drive down to the Gulf," she says, "but just two hours to get to the lake."

    The trend is driven by a combination of factors: ease of access and a renewed investment in infrastructure since the pandemic. According to Zillow data, many of Alabama's most expensive cities are located near Lake Martin, including four towns that make up the only designated "Treasured Lake" in the state.

    Equality, a tiny rural town north of Montgomery, is a prime example. With less than 150 full-time residents, it boasts the third-most expensive homes in the state – and prices are skyrocketing. Between January 2020 and February 2025, home values rose by an astonishing 72%. This rapid growth has propelled Equality onto Alabama's most expensive real estate list, closing the gap with Orange Beach.

    The difference between a typical single-family home in Orange Beach and one in Equality is now just $5,000. Howell attributes this surge to the desirability of Lake Martin and ongoing development around its shores. "Our lake is incredibly clean and beautiful," she says, crediting Alabama Power and Russell Lands for their stewardship.

    John Thompson, a former president of the Lake Martin Resource Association, has lived on the lake since the 1970s. He's witnessed firsthand the efforts to keep it pristine: removing hundreds of tons of trash and thousands of tires, installing hazard buoys, and adding lights to make nighttime boating safer. "It's made a difference," he says proudly. "Whether that's influenced home prices or not, I'm proud of what we've accomplished."

    Other lake towns, such as Jacksons' Gap, Dadeville, and Eclectic, are also experiencing rapid growth and rising home values. The nearby Auburn region has driven this expansion, with many residents commuting to the university while living full-time at the lake. As Thompson notes, "The cleanliness, beauty, and availability of Lake Martin are its biggest attractions."