The Lakes, Visalia,CA

If you’re considering a move to Visalia, CA, The Lakes neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and outdoor beauty. Known for its scenic water features and well-maintained parks, this area is perfect for families and individuals who enjoy spending time outside. The Lakes is particularly famous for its peaceful walking trails around the man-made lakes, providing a serene setting for morning jogs or evening strolls. Residents often gather at the community parks, which host seasonal events and provide playgrounds for children, making it a welcoming place for people of all ages.

One of the standout attractions in The Lakes is the Lakeside Park, a local favorite that features picnic areas, open green spaces, and fishing spots. It’s a great place to unwind after a busy day or to enjoy a weekend with friends and family. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to several community centers that offer recreational programs, fitness classes, and social activities. Shopping and dining options are conveniently nearby, with a variety of eateries serving everything from casual bites to more upscale dining experiences. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy a night out without having to travel far from home.

Living in The Lakes means you’re just a short drive from Downtown Visalia, making it easy to commute for work or enjoy the city’s cultural events and nightlife. Downtown offers a charming mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, providing plenty of entertainment options. Whether you’re heading to a local farmers market, catching a show at the Fox Theatre, or grabbing a coffee with friends, the vibrant downtown scene is just minutes away. Overall, The Lakes strikes a great balance between peaceful neighborhood living and convenient access to the heart of Visalia.

In The Lakes, 46% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

46% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

The Lakes demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,122 residents, The Lakes is notably smaller than many other Visalia neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 511 people per square mile, The Lakes offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Visalia neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 40, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The The Lakes crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In The Lakes, home prices come in around $458,650, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in The Lakes can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,222, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like The Lakes. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in The Lakes offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.