If you’re like me, when you go shopping around for a private island, you like to keep things realistic. Of course, a 3.2 Million dollar luxury island in the Bahamas would be fantastic – but its very unlikely that I’ll be able to afford one of those in my life time…and I kind of like living in the US – most of the time.

So, I decided to do a little searching around for some less expensive islands that are available in the United States. I was surprised how many are available. After quite a bit of searching, though, I managed to find 5 that are available here in the US for under $500,000.

5. San Joaquin Island – California – Price $220,000 – description: “Check out this wonderful island ready for your imagination. On one side, there is a protected area from wakes of other boats. There’s plenty of room for a club or individual families to enjoy the outdoors.” Click Here for more info.

4. Cottonwood Lake Island – Alaska – Price – $369,000 – description: “Located just 10 minutes from downtown Wasilla in south central Alaska, Cottonwood Lake Island is immersed within the stunning Alaskan landscape.” Click Here for more information.

3. Eagle’s Nest Island – Tennessee – Price – $450,000 – description: “Escape to the natural beauty of Eagle’s Nest Island. More than 167 acres of undisturbed land of hardwood, stone, sand & a heart full of memories of picnics, skiing, & family fun. For those with vision, it is an opportunity to dream beyond the scope of the ordinary” Click Here for more information.

2. Barnard Island – Florida – Price – $93,000 – description: “This heavily wooded, buildable island is located in the 20-mile long chain of the Tsala Apopka Lakes near Hernando Florida. This beautiful island is in its natural state with abundant wildlife and excellent bass fishing. The island is very secluded, and is about ½ mile from shore, and 1 mile from a public launch. There are many waterfront homes around the lakes, and raw land is still available in the surrounding area.”

1. Big McGraw Island – Wisconsin – Price – $319,000 – description: “Absolutely the coolest lakeshore property we have offered for sale in 30 years… only 42 miles from the Hinckley exit and about 2 1/2 hours from the Twin Cities.” Click Here for more info.