Just between North and South Carolina, one idyllic lake offers fishing, boating and recreation year-round. With levels controlled by the local power company, Lake Wylie's levels don't fluctuate, allowing boat access all year. Lake Wylie is the oldest man-made lake along the Catawba River chain.
Although the lake spans three counties in North and South Carolina, the Lake Wylie, S.C., community is not really a city, but a census designated place. As of the 2010 census, Lake Wylie had a population of 8,841 residents. It is part of York County, which is steadily growing as many North Carolina residents move across the state line from Mecklenburg County to enjoy the lower taxes. Lake Wylie, named after Dr. W. Gil Wylie, who organized the Catawba Power Company, prides itself on its southern heritage, offering a small-town feel even in the active summer months.
Moving to Lake Wylie
Single-family homes and townhouses are the most prominent places to settle down, although there are two apartment complexes in the city. South Carolina has maintained relatively reasonable housing and apartment rental prices, and many residents love the lower taxes of York County.
The town is situated near SC Highway 49, I-77 and I-85, with easy access to major metropolitan airports and Charlotte International Airport.
Being located on a peninsula with 325 miles of shoreline, there's no shortage of waterfront properties. You can find beautiful neighborhoods with boating access or large, waterfront homes nestled beside 50-year-old cabins. Lake Wylie hasn't been overdeveloped and still has lots available for those looking to build. Home prices tend to be a little higher than the national average, but still reasonable for lakefront property.
If you're looking to rent an apartment in Lake Wylie, there are two primary apartment complexes with moderate rents, especially for a lakeside community. They offer one-bedroom apartments as well as two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments in Lake Wylie.
Apartment complexes offer 6-month, 9-month and 12-month leases, and all will do a background and credit check before renting, as well as a deposit.
Shopping for a Home
Lake Wylie is a fairly small area, comprising 3.5 square miles of land, so you could reasonably shop available homes and apartments in just a few days. Before shopping, take the time to prepare a rental deposit or home down payment.
The spring and summer months are the most common and times when you will likely see the most traffic in the area. The lake can get a little crowded in the spring, so shopping during the off season would give you the best chance to see the city during its calmest time.
Remember that the lake spans two states, so if you plan to do a little fishing while visiting, be sure to get the appropriate licenses for each state.
Lake Wylie Neighborhoods
All of Lake Wylie is beautiful, so you really can't go wrong with where to live. The Clover School District is one of the best in the state. Despite its growth and the growing popularity of waterfront living around the country, Lake Wylie has managed to keeps its prices competitive with other neighborhoods in the state and in nearby Charlotte.
Autumn Cove: This community features single-family homes and town homes for sale. The neighborhood includes lake access and a residents-only boat storage area. The homes are newer, built in the early 2000s, and a little pricier, but still reasonable for being in a waterfront neighborhood. Homes range from 2,000 square feet to more than 3,000 square feet.
Top Apartment Communities
You can find two-bedroom apartments for rent in Lake Wylie as well as some one-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments.
The Village at Lake Wylie: This community has one-bedroom apartments for rent and well as two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments. The community has a pool and lakefront park. Floorplans range from 936 square feet to 1,470 square feet.
Villas at Marlin Bay: This lakeside complex has two-bedroom apartments for rent, as well as some three-bedroom apartments. Floorplans range from 1,145 square feet to 1,225 square feet.
Living in Lake Wylie
Lake Wylie is a growing community, where outdoor activities reign. Residents can go boating, fishing, skiing or simply enjoy a park on the lake. Take a kayak or canoe trip down the Catawba River for a little more adventure.
For golf lovers, York County, which includes Lake Wylie, Rock Hill, York and Tega Cay, has eight fairways. You're sure to find one that suits your style and budget.
If you're looking to stay indoors, you're only minutes away from larger shopping, dining and entertainment in Rock Hill and Fort Mill. Uptown Charlotte is only 25 miles up the road, and you'll find shopping, dining, museums, theater and nightlife as well as professional sports. Catch a Carolina Panthers football game, or see the Knights play baseball in their new stadium.
With beautiful scenery and Southern charm, Lake Wylie is one of the top places to live in South Carolina.