This chart shows the increase in the number of dwellings on Wisconsin's lakes (by size) over a 30 year period beginning in 1965. Notice that the greatest increase has occurred on lakes over 200 acres. The next largest increase occurred on lakes under 50 acres. Since nearly all of the large lakes (97%) are developed, the rush is on to purchase land on small lakes.

Small lakes offer many advantages over large lakes. Although prices are rising as lakefront land becomes less available, overall, prices are considerably lower on the smaller lakes. Smaller lakes offer more seclusion with dwellings averaging one for every 800 feet of shoreline. Smaller lakes are more likely to remain places where wildlife will flourish and human occupants will experience peace and quiet.