First-Time Buyers
- $380K-$450K entry single-family price range
- FHA-friendly price band below Washoe County limits
- No HOA on most parcels — lower monthly costs
- Production subdivision options with builder warranties

Nevada's #1 team for Lemmon Valley real estate. Search homes for sale in North Reno's open high-desert valley — single-family homes, acreage parcels, and newer production builds from $380K to $580K with no HOA on most properties.
MEDIAN LIST PRICE
$470K
LVR / GLVAR via Repliers, as of September 13, 2026
DAYS ON MARKET
49
LVR / GLVAR via Repliers, as of September 13, 2026
HOA (TYPICAL)
$0-$80/mo
Most parcels no HOA
TO DOWNTOWN RENO
20 min
Via US-395 S
Property research
Verify for your address
Confirm current school assignments, association documents, parcel taxes, and insurance with the applicable sources.
Last updated
June 23, 2026
Individual data periods may differ from the page update date.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Lemmon Valley is North Reno's value-priced high-desert community — single-family homes, acreage parcels, and newer production builds in ZIP 89506 — with a median list price near $469,975 and homes going under contract in about 43 days per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and Northern Nevada Regional MLS. The five takeaways below distill what those numbers mean for buyers.
Last updated September 2026 · Sources: RSAR, U.S. Census, NNRMLS
ZIP 89506 carries roughly 188 active listings per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS data, ranging from $380K entry single-family homes to $580K+ acreage parcels. The eight newest listings appear below, refreshed daily, with every active Lemmon Valley property searchable in our live MLS portal.
PRICE DISTRIBUTION
The ZIP 89506 median list price sits at $470K per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS September 2026 NNRMLS data, with inventory clustering in the $400K-$520K family-home band. Each card below shows current active-listing counts by price range, so you can gauge real competition in your budget before you start touring Lemmon Valley neighborhoods.
Lemmon Valley's roughly 188 active listings span five price bands, multiple property types, and the lifestyle filters below — each link opens our live NNRMLS search pre-filtered to that slice, with counts updated daily from Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS data.
Tap a community card to see current listings, price ranges, lot-size details, and what daily life looks like inside each section of the North Valleys.
Updated daily · 170 active listings · MLS data
STAY AHEAD OF THE MARKET
Custom alerts by price, beds, baths, and lot size — no spam, unsubscribe anytime. With Lemmon Valley homes going under contract in 43 days median per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, seeing new listings within hours gives you a clear edge. Acreage parcels sell fastest in spring — set your alert before the season turns.
Before choosing a home, request address-specific school assignments for the intended school year from the district. Confirm grade levels, program eligibility, enrollment requirements and any boundary changes. Use the exact property address, including any unit number, and ask the district to confirm the assignment before making a purchase decision.
Check Washoe school zoning · View Nevada Report Card
Compare each school’s programs and published results for the same reporting year. Proximity to a school does not guarantee admission; contact charter, magnet and private schools about their application and enrollment requirements.
CRIME DATA
Review reports from the law-enforcement agency serving the address. Check the reporting period, area covered, offense definitions and completeness before comparing locations. When requesting local information, provide the property address and ask which agency and geographic boundary each report represents, along with any known reporting gaps.
The FBI publishes crime and law-enforcement statistics through its Crime Data Explorer. Its guidance cautions against using crime totals alone to rank communities: reporting practices and local conditions affect comparisons.
A citywide statistic does not establish conditions at a particular home. Ask the local agency about current reports for the area and gaps in the available data. Missing records do not mean zero crime, and a gated entrance does not establish a safety rating.
FBI crime data resources · FBI guidance on comparing communities
Lemmon Valley offers open high-desert living in North Reno's North Valleys corridor: wide mountain views, generous lot sizes, no HOA on most parcels, and homes from $380K entry single-family to $580K+ acreage properties. The City of Reno US-395 corridor gives quick access to Downtown Reno in about 20 minutes, with zero Nevada state income tax sweetening every relocation budget.
Lemmon Valley is known as the North Valleys' value-priced high-desert community — a broad open basin with mountain views, generous lot sizes, no-HOA properties, and a mix of older ranch homes and newer production subdivisions that price well below South or Northwest Reno master plans. It attracts buyers who want land, quiet, and elbow room at an accessible price.
Lemmon Valley fits first-time buyers, value-focused families, remote workers who want a home office with acreage, horse-property and rural-lifestyle buyers, and California relocators seeking Nevada's tax advantage without paying master-plan premiums. It is also a strong fit for buyers who want to avoid HOA fees entirely.
Daily life centers on wide-open skies, morning drives on uncongested North Valleys roads, and easy US-395 access to downtown Reno's restaurants and the Truckee Riverwalk in about 20 minutes. Weekends often mean hiking in the Virginia Range foothills, quick drives to Lake Tahoe (62 minutes), or Saturday errands along the North Valleys retail corridor on Lemmon Drive.
Lemmon Valley sits in the North Valleys area of north Reno (ZIP 89506), in a broad high-desert basin along US-395. Elevation approximately 4,700-4,900 ft. About 20 minutes north of Downtown Reno via US-395 south, and about 22 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Quick Answer
Yes — for buyers who prioritize value, lot size, and outdoor space over amenity density. Lemmon Valley delivers wide mountain views, generous parcels, and a $460K median that undercuts every South Reno master plan by $100K or more. Nevada's zero state income tax adds $10,000-$30,000+ per year in savings for most California households, and the 20-minute US-395 commute to Downtown Reno keeps the community well-connected to the metro's employers and services.
Source: Nevada State Demographer
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, ZIP 89506 holds a predominantly owner-occupied, working-family population with a median household income near $65,000 — slightly below the Reno city average but within the range of the broader North Valleys corridor. The median age of roughly 37 reflects the younger-family and first-time buyer composition of the community.
Home values in ZIP 89506 have been climbing as Reno's overall market appreciation filters north, and as remote workers and value-seeking California relocators discover the North Valleys' price advantage. The mix of older ranch homes, newer production subdivisions, and rural-residential acreage parcels creates a diverse ownership base across income levels.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS estimates & Nevada State Demographer · Updated
POPULATION & GROWTH
Lemmon Valley and the broader ZIP 89506 North Valleys corridor have grown steadily as Reno's housing market expanded northward and remote-work flexibility unlocked more distant, lower-cost options for buyers. New subdivision construction continues to add inventory at accessible price points.
Growth in the North Valleys corridor has been steady rather than explosive — reflecting a value-buyer and family market that absorbs new supply without the overheating seen in South Reno master plans. Remote-work adoption since 2020 accelerated in-migration from California as buyers discovered they could afford a spacious Lemmon Valley home for the same monthly cost as a small apartment in Sacramento or the Bay Area.
Sources: Nevada State Demographer and U.S. Census Bureau ACS. Historical figures are ZIP-level approximations; projection reflects State Demographer planning. Last updated June 2026.
MARKET TRENDS · LAST 12 MONTHS
Median list price, days on market, and active inventory from Northern Nevada Regional MLS ZIP 89506 data, updated monthly. ZIP 89506 has held steady year-over-year near $460K with roughly 188 active listings — the three charts below show the past twelve months.
Median List Price (ZIP 89506)
+1.5% YoY (May 2025 - May 2026)
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Days on Market
38 - 43 days YoY (seasonal softening winter)
vs September 2025
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Active Listings
~188 monthly average, seasonal winter dip
vs September 2025
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
The long view: Reno's median sold price rose 116% between 2015 ($273,230) and 2026 ($589,951), across 53,730 recorded closings — Northern Nevada Regional MLS (NNRMLS) records via Repliers.
HOMES GOING FAST
Market Competitiveness
Lemmon Valley is a moderately paced market — well-priced entry single-family homes below $450K go under contract in roughly five to six weeks per NNRMLS ZIP 89506 data. Acreage and rural-residential parcels above $500K typically take eight to twelve weeks as the qualified buyer pool narrows. Motivated buyers can still find leverage in negotiating repairs and seller credits.
Lemmon Valley spans $380K entry single-family to $580K+ acreage and rural-residential parcels — the most affordable and most land-rich option in the Reno market. Six buyer profiles below match lifestyles to specific Lemmon Valley property types, followed by the honest pros and trade-offs our team walks every client through before they commit.
Ready to explore homes in Lemmon Valley? Our team knows every acreage parcel, production subdivision, and rural-residential listing in the North Valleys corridor.
Start Your Lemmon Valley SearchNeighborhood Comparison
A like-for-like comparison of the four most-searched North Reno and North Valleys communities — median price, price per square foot, days on market, HOA, and lifestyle fit — using active-listing data refreshed monthly via Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS. Prices span $440K in Lemmon Valley / Stead to $460K+ in Golden Valley.
| Submarket | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active Listings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemmon Valley | $460,000 | ~$245 | 43 | 45 | Acreage · No HOA · Value |
| Stead | $440,000 | ~$240 | 40 | 42 | Entry-Level · Airport Access |
| Golden Valley | $475,000 | ~$255 | 38 | 36 | Newer Build · View Lots |
| North Valleys (general) | $455,000 | ~$243 | 42 | 59 | Value · Commuter Friendly |
Source: Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS data, June 2026. Median prices based on active listings; days on market from closed sales.
Community Deep Dive
Submarket 1
North Reno's high-desert value community — large lots, no HOA on most parcels, rural-residential options, and a $460K median that undercuts every South Reno master plan.
Browse Lemmon Valley homes →Submarket 2
The former Stead Air Force Base community — entry-priced single-family homes close to the North Valleys retail corridor and Reno-Tahoe Airport commute corridor.
Browse Stead homes →Submarket 3
A newer-build North Valleys community west of Lemmon Valley, with higher-elevation view lots and production subdivisions in the $430K-$580K range.
Browse Golden Valley homes →Submarket 4
The broader North Valleys corridor outside individual named communities — established neighborhoods, mixed housing types, and strong value pricing relative to the Reno median.
Browse North Valleys (general) homes →Submarket 5
Pyramid Lake — a stunning high-desert alkaline lake on the Paiute Tribal Reservation — is about 35 minutes from Lemmon Valley. World-class Lahontan cutthroat trout fishing, kayaking, and dramatic tufa formations make it a premier weekend destination for North Valleys residents. A tribal permit is required for recreation on the lake.
Browse Pyramid Lake Area (Weekend Escape) homes →Lemmon Valley sits in the North Valleys area of north Reno (ZIP 89506) along US-395, in a broad high-desert basin at roughly 4,700-4,900 ft elevation. Stead is about 5 minutes south, Golden Valley is about 5 minutes west, and Downtown Reno is roughly 20 minutes south via US-395.
STILL DECIDING?
BY ZIP CODE
ZIP 89506 covers Lemmon Valley and the broader North Valleys corridor including Stead and Golden Valley. The table below puts the ZIP in context against neighboring Reno ZIP codes — median price, price per square foot, days on market, active inventory, and year-over-year price growth — using Northern Nevada Regional MLS data.
| ZIP | Primary Area | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active | YoY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89506 | Lemmon Valley · North Valleys · Stead | $460K | ~$245 | 43 | 188 | +1.5% |
| 89523 | Somersett · Northwest Reno | $620K | ~$315 | 32 | 210 | +1.9% |
| 89519 | Old Southwest · Caughlin Ranch | $725K | ~$340 | 36 | 142 | +3.1% |
| 89521 | Damonte Ranch · South Meadows | $565K | ~$290 | 28 | 256 | +2.2% |
| 89511 | South Reno · Galena · ArrowCreek | $745K | ~$355 | 40 | 268 | +2.8% |
| 89509 | Midtown · Central · Lakeridge | $520K | ~$310 | 34 | 174 | +1.5% |
Source: Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS. Medians from active listings; YoY from closed sales, 2026 vs 2025 year-to-date. Per-sqft figures approximate. ZIP boundaries per Washoe County GIS.
New Construction
Lemmon Valley and the North Valleys corridor have seen ongoing production homebuilding, with regional and national builders adding modern single-family homes to phased subdivisions. Entry-priced production homes in the $430K-$560K range sell quickly in spring and summer. Verify current incentives, because rate buydowns and closing-cost credits change month to month.
Outdoor Recreation
Lemmon Valley is built for open-desert and foothill outdoor living: wide skies, direct access to the Virginia Range foothills, and Lake Tahoe roughly 62 minutes via US-395 and NV-431. The City of Reno maintains the North Valleys park corridor, with Rancho San Rafael and Galena Creek Recreation Area reachable in 30-35 minutes.
ADJACENT
Open BLM land directly accessible from North Valleys parcels — informal trails, equestrian routes, and OHV corridors through high-desert terrain.
10 MIN
The main community park in the North Valleys corridor, with walking paths, sports fields, and picnic areas for North Reno families.
55 MIN
The closest major ski resort to Reno, with the highest base elevation at Lake Tahoe and dependable deep Sierra snow from November through April.
62 MIN
North America's largest alpine lake — public beaches at Sand Harbor and Kings Beach, marinas, and a dozen surrounding ski resorts within one drive.
35 MIN
Forested Sierra trails and a visitor center on the Mt. Rose Highway — the closest wilderness trailhead to North Reno.
30 MIN
Reno's flagship regional park, home to the Great Reno Balloon Race and the Wilbur D. May Arboretum.
35 MIN
A stunning high-desert alkaline lake famous for record-class Lahontan cutthroat trout fishing, kayaking, and dramatic tufa formations.
15 MIN
One of Northern Nevada's most popular off-highway vehicle recreation areas, a quick drive from Lemmon Valley on US-395.
The Lemmon Valley Lifestyle
Wide-open desert mornings, quick US-395 access to downtown Reno's restaurants and the Truckee Riverwalk per the City of Reno, and weekend adventures to Pyramid Lake for trout fishing or Lake Tahoe for beaches and skiing — all within 30-62 minutes of the driveway.
THIS WEEKEND'S OPEN HOUSES
Most Lemmon Valley sellers schedule open houses on weekends, especially in spring and early summer. Acreage and rural-residential parcels are shown by appointment, as tours require gate access across larger lots. Set up instant alerts to be notified when a home in your price range opens, or browse every active Lemmon Valley listing now.
Build a budget around the particular home and your circumstances. Obtain current financing terms, property records and service quotes before comparing the cost of a move. A community average cannot establish your tax bill, insurance premium, association charges or savings.
Ask a tax adviser to review income sources, residency dates and any continuing connections to another state. California-source income can remain taxable after a move; the Franchise Tax Board explains part-year and nonresident rules. A headline tax-rate comparison does not calculate your savings.
Get the exact parcel's current tax bill and assessment record from its county. Confirm the property's abatement status and any effect of new construction, a change in use or your circumstances with the assessor. Do not apply a community-wide percentage to a purchase price or assume a tax cap is automatic.
Use lender estimates, insurance quotes, association documents and utility information for the exact address. Include maintenance, moving expenses and any special assessments in the comparison. Renting and buying involve different costs and obligations; future equity or resale gains are not assured.
Check school assignments for the enrollment year and ask about choice-program applications. Investigate parcel-specific hazards and permitted uses with the responsible agencies. Review travel routes and the features that matter to you instead of relying on a broad safety score or a neighborhood recommendation based on household type.
Discuss the homes, budget and timing you want to evaluate with the team.
Explore relocation planningRELOCATION TIMELINE
Plan the purchase and move around your circumstances and the property's verified requirements. Coordinate the transaction, possession and moving arrangements with the relevant parties. For license and vehicle questions, consult the Nevada DMV new-resident guide. Confirm your own deadlines and any exemptions directly with the agency.
Compare homes using your budget, accessibility needs, desired features and travel routes. Evaluate the particular property and surroundings using your own priorities; a neighborhood label does not establish its suitability.
Ask a lender for terms based on your circumstances and the property. Obtain the parcel tax record, insurance quotes, association charges and other recurring costs; a community-wide estimate cannot establish your payment or approval.
Discuss services, compensation, communication and touring arrangements with the agent. Confirm the details in the applicable agreement before relying on a promised service or access to a property.
Check school assignments with the district for the enrollment year and ask about separate program applications. Review parcel-specific flood, wildfire, utility, zoning and intended-use questions with the relevant agencies and service providers.
Discuss price, deposit, contingencies and the proposed schedule with your agent and lender. The signed contract determines the transaction deadlines; market averages do not promise when an offer will be accepted or a purchase will close.
Arrange appropriate inspections and review disclosures, title information, association documents and financing conditions. Investigate unresolved findings with the relevant specialist before the contractual decision deadlines.
Verify which utilities serve the address, what deposits or appointments are required, and when service can begin. Coordinate access and the moving date with the agreed possession terms and any building or association requirements.
Confirm completion and possession with the closing parties before arranging access. Consult the Nevada DMV's current new-resident guide for license, registration, documentation and exemption requirements that apply to you.
ECONOMY & JOBS
Lemmon Valley taps the Reno-Sparks MSA job base via US-395 — manufacturing, healthcare, and data centers within 20-35 minutes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSA unemployment is near historic lows, led by Tesla, Switch, and Panasonic at the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (30-35 min) and Renown Health and UNR (20 min via US-395).
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nevada State Demographer. Last updated June 2026.
COMMUNITY COMPARISON
Choosing among North Reno and Reno value communities? This table compares Lemmon Valley (median $460K, large lots, mostly no HOA), Stead ($440K, entry-level and airport access), Golden Valley ($475K, newer builds and view lots), and South Meadows ($550K, South Reno master plan). Metrics are from RSAR, the U.S. Census, and BLS Reno-Sparks MSA.
| Metric | Lemmon Valley | Stead | Golden Valley | South Meadows |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median List Price | $460K | $440K | $475K | $550K |
| Price / Sq Ft | ~$245 | ~$240 | ~$255 | ~$285 |
| Days on Market | 43 | 40 | 38 | 30 |
| HOA / Month | $0-$80 (most none) | $0-$60 | $50-$100 | $80-$180 |
| Guard-Gated | No | No | No | No |
| Acreage Parcels | Yes — rural-residential lots | Limited | No | No |
| New Construction | Active phases | Limited | Active phases | Limited |
| Best For | Acreage · No HOA · Value | Entry-Level · Airport | Newer Build · Views | Families · Master Plan |
Sources: Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, U.S. Census ACS. Last updated June 2026.
Build a property-specific budget using a lender quote, the parcel tax estimate, insurance quotes and association documents. The starting amounts below are editable illustrations, not current local rates or verified fees. Compare the result with your Loan Estimate, and budget separately for maintenance, utilities and closing costs.
Inputs are assumptions, not a loan offer, insurance quote or parcel tax calculation. This simplified fixed-rate example applies the selected PMI rate below 20% down; actual mortgage-insurance eligibility, cost and cancellation depend on the loan. Maintenance, utilities, closing costs and special assessments are additional. Review the CFPB housing budget guide and confirm amounts with the relevant providers.
BUYING AND RENTING
Compare actual homes that meet the same needs over your expected time in the area. A purchase price and an advertised rent alone do not establish which option costs less. Use current quotes and separate monthly cash flow, upfront cash, and the amount you might recover when moving.
Start with the down payment, lender and closing charges, and any immediate repairs. Add principal and interest, property taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance where applicable, association dues, utilities and ongoing maintenance. Identify expenses paid outside escrow so they are included in your household budget.
For a later sale, model the remaining loan balance and selling expenses. Appreciation is uncertain; compare unchanged-price and lower-price cases as well as any growth assumption. Principal repayment builds an ownership interest, but that does not guarantee a profit or make every cash payment recoverable.
Use an actual lease offer and confirm the term, deposit, renewal provisions, parking, pet charges, utilities and renter's insurance. Record which maintenance services are included and any costs or restrictions associated with an early move. An advertised starting rent may not include every required charge.
Keep the comparison consistent: use the same time period, household needs and moving assumptions. Include the cash that remains available when a down payment is not used, without assuming a guaranteed investment return. Your need for flexibility and responsibility for repairs also matter alongside the financial figures.
There is no verified community-wide holding period or five-year equity gain shown here. Ask your lender to explain financing assumptions and have a tax professional assess any claimed tax benefit for your circumstances. Keep a copy of the quotes and dates so you can update the comparison before making an offer.
PROPERTY-SPECIFIC ASSOCIATION COSTS
A community name does not establish a property's current dues or all the associations that govern it. Obtain the applicable resale package, budget and governing documents for the exact address. Confirm the effective date and payment frequency of each fee with the association or its manager.
Identify master and sub-association dues separately. Check whether utilities, exterior maintenance, insurance, amenities or club access are included, optional or billed separately. A listing's monthly figure may omit a quarterly or annual charge, and an advertised amenity does not establish membership rights.
Ask about transfer, document, capital-contribution and other transaction fees, as well as approved or proposed assessments. Confirm who pays each item under the contract. Review available reserve and budget information; historical dues are not a guarantee of future charges.
Verify the actual rules for leasing, pets, parking, property changes and amenity access. Age restrictions and gate staffing require their own current documentation. Do not assume neighboring subdivisions or similarly named communities have identical rules, services or fees.
COMMUTE & TRANSPORTATION
From Lemmon Valley, US-395 puts Downtown Reno about 20 minutes south and the airport about 22 minutes away. Most residents drive — mean commutes in ZIP 89506 run near 24 minutes per U.S. Census ACS data — reasonable by Nevada standards, though RTC transit coverage thins significantly north of downtown.
Drive times based on average non-rush-hour conditions. Sources: Google Maps traffic data, RTC Washoe.
Quick Answer
Most Lemmon Valley purchases close in 30-45 days. Cash offers can close in 7-14 days. FHA and conventional financed purchases run 30-45 days. Acreage or rural-residential parcels with well and septic may require additional inspection time — plan for 35-50 days if well-and-septic inspections are needed. New-construction spec homes typically close in 30-60 days from certificate of occupancy.
Quick Answer
FHA loans allow 580+ credit with 3.5% down — a common path for Lemmon Valley first-time buyers at the $380K-$460K price band, which stays well below Washoe County FHA limits. Conventional loans start at 620+. The spread between a 680 and a 760 score can save $200-$350/month on a $460K purchase, so improving credit before applying is worth the effort even in this accessible price range.
Lemmon Valley FAQ — 18 Answers
The median asking price for a Lemmon Valley home is about $469,975 per Northern Nevada Regional MLS data for ZIP 89506, at roughly $245 per square foot. Entry-level single-family homes and older ranch parcels start near $380K, newer production subdivisions cluster around $440K-$520K, and larger acreage or rural-residential lots can reach $580K and above.
Lemmon Valley sits in the North Valleys area of north Reno, Nevada (ZIP 89506), in a broad high-desert basin along US-395 roughly 20 minutes north of Downtown Reno. The valley runs west of Stead Boulevard and north of the airport corridor, bounded by the Virginia Range foothills to the east and open desert to the north. It is administratively part of the City of Reno.
Most Lemmon Valley properties carry no HOA or very low HOA fees — a key reason buyers choose the area over master-planned communities in South or Northwest Reno. Newer subdivision tracts built after 2010 may carry a nominal HOA of $30-$80 per month for common-area landscaping or entry monuments. Always confirm HOA status, dues, and transfer fees with the listing agent before writing an offer.
Lemmon Valley homes typically sell in about 49 days from list to accepted offer per NNRMLS data for ZIP 89506 — slightly longer than the broader Reno median, reflecting the mix of older ranch parcels and newer production homes in the corridor. Entry-priced homes below $450K in move-in-ready condition tend to go pending fastest; acreage and rural-residential lots above $530K take longer as the qualified buyer pool narrows.
Lemmon Valley sits in the Washoe County School District. Students are generally zoned for Lemmon Valley Elementary (K-5), which is inside the community, and feed through the North Valleys Middle School and North Valleys High School corridor. Confirm exact zone assignments by street address, as boundaries can shift across the ZIP 89506 area.
Lemmon Valley offers the widest variety of housing types in the North Valleys corridor: older 1970s-1990s ranch homes on half-acre to one-acre lots, newer production single-family homes in subdivisions built since 2010, manufactured homes on deeded land, and rural-residential acreage parcels of two to five acres for buyers who want horses or a larger footprint. Floor plans range from about 1,100 sq ft to 2,800+ sq ft.
Lemmon Valley is a solid choice for value-focused buyers and families who want more lot size and elbow room than South Reno master plans allow at the same price. The high-desert basin delivers wide mountain views and open skies. The tradeoff is a thinner amenity layer than communities like Somersett or Damonte Ranch — most shopping and dining requires a 10-20 minute drive into Reno proper or North Valleys retail.
Yes — Lemmon Valley has seen ongoing new construction in the North Valleys corridor, with production builders adding modern single-family homes in phased subdivisions. New builds typically run $430K-$560K for 1,600-2,400 sq ft homes on lots of 6,000-12,000 sq ft. Call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 to find out which phases are currently selling and whether builder incentives like rate buydowns are available.
Property taxes in Lemmon Valley follow Washoe County's effective rate of roughly 0.5-0.7% of assessed value. Nevada caps annual increases on a primary residence at 3% under Nevada Revised Statutes 361.471. On a $470K Lemmon Valley home, the annual tax bill typically runs $2,300-$3,220 depending on assessed value — well below comparable California properties, and paired with Nevada's zero state income tax.
All three are North Valleys ZIP 89506 communities. Stead centers on the former Stead Air Force Base area and is slightly closer to the North Valleys retail corridor. Golden Valley is a newer-build, slightly higher-elevation community west of Lemmon Valley with homes running $430K-$580K and a handful of production subdivision HOAs. Lemmon Valley offers the most acreage and rural-residential parcels of the three, making it the best fit for buyers who want horses or larger lots.
From Lemmon Valley, Downtown Reno is about 20 minutes via US-395 south in typical traffic. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is roughly 22 minutes via US-395. Sparks is about 30 minutes via the I-80 interchange. Lake Tahoe's Incline Village is roughly 62 minutes via US-395 and NV-431 — longer than from South Reno by about 10 minutes. Most residents drive; RTC bus coverage into the North Valleys is limited.
Lemmon Valley's low-density, residential character keeps overall crime rates below the Reno city average for most property-crime categories, according to City of Reno Police and FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data. The open, spread-out parcels mean neighbors tend to know each other, which informally deters opportunistic crime. Standard precautions — secured garages, exterior lighting, and property fencing — are adequate for most households.
Yes — many rural-residential parcels in Lemmon Valley are zoned for horses, goats, and small livestock under Washoe County's agricultural zoning designations. Parcel size requirements and animal count limits vary by zoning designation (RR-1, RR-2, RR-5). Confirm the specific zoning and permitted uses with the Washoe County Community Development office before purchasing any property intended for animals.
Budget for well and septic maintenance if the property is on private water and sewer — not all North Valleys parcels are on Washoe County Water and Truckee Meadows Water Authority service. Confirm utility connections (water, sewer, natural gas) for each specific parcel. Older ranch homes may have deferred maintenance or outdated electrical. Get pre-approved before touring; with a $470K median, many sellers still expect a lender letter at showing.
For California buyers priced out of San Diego, the Inland Empire, or the Sacramento Valley, Lemmon Valley offers a dramatic upgrade in lot size and outdoor access at a fraction of the cost. A $470K Lemmon Valley home delivers 1,600-2,400 sq ft with a large lot and mountain views. Nevada adds zero state income tax versus California's top marginal 13.3% rate per the California Franchise Tax Board, and Washoe County property taxes are capped at 3% annual growth under Nevada Revised Statutes 361.471.
Most Lemmon Valley buyers put down 3.5%-20%. FHA loans allow 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score — well-suited to this price band where the $470K median stays comfortably below the FHA loan limit for Washoe County. Conventional loans start at 3% for qualified first-time buyers. At a $470K purchase, 10% down is $46,000 and 20% is $92,000. Rural-residential and acreage parcels with non-conforming lot sizes may require conventional financing and a 10-20% down payment minimum.
It depends on priorities. South Reno communities like Damonte Ranch or Double Diamond offer newer master plans, top WCSD school zones, and stronger amenity layers at $480K-$680K. Lemmon Valley beats South Reno on lot size, rural character, and entry-level pricing — with a meaningful number of no-HOA and acreage options that South Reno simply does not have. Buyers who prioritize space and value over schools and retail proximity will find Lemmon Valley more rewarding.
Most Lemmon Valley purchases close in 30-45 days. Cash offers can close in 7-14 days. FHA and conventional financed purchases run 30-45 days from accepted offer. Acreage or rural-residential parcels involving well, septic, or agricultural inspections may add 5-10 days to the timeline. New-construction spec homes typically close in 30-60 days once the certificate of occupancy is issued.
Updated September 2026
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Want more Nevada real estate answers like this in your Google results?
PEOPLE ALSO ASK
Beyond the FAQ above, these are the queries Lemmon Valley buyers actually type into Google and AI assistants — answered with specifics you can verify: prices from the Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, school ratings from GreatSchools, utility information from TMWA and Washoe County, and tax data from the Washoe County Assessor.
Yes — for buyers who prioritize value, land, and open-desert character over amenity density. Lemmon Valley delivers wide mountain views, generous lots, and a $470K median that undercuts every established South Reno community by $100K or more. The tradeoff is a thinner retail and dining layer that requires a 20-minute drive to downtown Reno.
Lemmon Valley Elementary serves the community, and students feed into North Valleys High School within Washoe County School District. Both schools rate in the 6/10 range on GreatSchools — below the 8-9/10 zones in South Reno and Somersett. Families prioritizing top school assignments may want to consider WCSD school choice options or private alternatives like Sage Ridge (9/10, 25 minutes).
Yes — select rural-residential parcels in Lemmon Valley are zoned for horses and small livestock under Washoe County agricultural designations. Parcel size and animal count requirements vary by zoning type (RR-1, RR-2, RR-5). Confirm specific zoning with Washoe County Community Development before purchasing any property intended for animals.
Some parcels connect to TMWA (Truckee Meadows Water Authority) or Washoe County Water public service, while older and rural parcels use private wells. Confirm the specific utility connections for each parcel — well-water properties require an inspection and water-quality test, and costs to pump or treat can vary significantly.
A $470K purchase with 10% down at 7% runs roughly $3,297/month all-in — principal, interest, 0.6% property tax, homeowners insurance, and PMI. Most properties carry no HOA, saving $100-$300 versus master-planned alternatives. Nevada's zero state income tax is an additional off-budget benefit for California relocators.
Lemmon Valley is in ZIP code 89506, which covers the North Valleys corridor including Lemmon Valley, Stead, and parts of Golden Valley. The median list price in 89506 is about $469,975 per Northern Nevada Regional MLS data, with roughly 188 active listings as of September 2026.
Yes — the North Valleys corridor has grown steadily as Reno's housing market expands northward and remote-work flexibility makes the 20-minute US-395 commute practical for more buyers. New production subdivision construction continues to add inventory, and year-over-year appreciation in ZIP 89506 has tracked +1.5% per NNRMLS data.
Pyramid Lake is about 35 minutes from Lemmon Valley via US-395 north to NV-445 — one of the perks of North Reno living that South Reno residents typically view as a 45-50 minute trip. The Paiute Tribal land requires a fishing or recreation permit purchasable at tribal offices or online.
WHY NEVADA REAL ESTATE GROUP
Deep expertise in North Reno acreage parcels, rural-residential due diligence, and the North Valleys market — plus 150+ licensed agents statewide and 9,061+ verified five-star reviews. With 9,600+ closed transactions and $4.85B+ in total volume since 2011, Nevada Real Estate Group ranks #1 in Nevada. That reach covers every property type from Lemmon Valley acreage to luxury estates.
WORK WITH THE BEST
Tell the team about your preferred area, budget, timing and property requirements. Ask about representation and the records needed to evaluate a particular home. Review current listings, comparable sales and the written terms of any services before deciding how to proceed. Contacting the team does not guarantee a purchase, sale price or response deadline.
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
Compare Lemmon Valley with neighboring North Reno communities and nearby Northern Nevada options. Each card pairs the commute time to Lemmon Valley with the community's price positioning, so you can judge whether moving to an adjacent area actually buys you more home for the money.
More Reno communities
Shopping the whole city? Browse all Reno homes for sale — live MLS listings updated daily.
A-Z INDEX
21 neighborhoods and communities within and around Reno — from ArrowCreek and Caughlin Ranch in the west foothills to Lemmon Valley and Stead in the North Valleys. Every linked entry opens a dedicated page with current NNRMLS listings, price ranges, and community details.
KEEP LEARNING
These guides extend the research most Lemmon Valley buyers do next — comparing neighboring North Valleys communities, understanding Reno's tax advantage, and exploring the full Reno market — each written from the same NNRMLS data and primary sources used throughout this page.
GUIDE
Entry-level North Valleys living — former Air Force Base community with accessible pricing and quick US-395 airport access.
Read →GUIDE
Newer-build North Valleys community west of Lemmon Valley — higher-elevation view lots and production subdivisions at $430K-$580K.
Read →MARKET REPORT
Truckee Meadows market data, neighborhood comparisons, and every Reno community page in one place.
Read →RELOCATION GUIDE
The Northern Nevada move playbook — taxes, cost of living, and neighborhoods.
Read →LIVING GUIDE
Jobs, cost, weather, and lifestyle for anyone weighing a move to Reno.
Read →Sources & Methodology
Every statistic on this page is sourced from a primary or government dataset, and we refresh these numbers monthly. The organizations below — from the U.S. Census Bureau to the Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS — supply the underlying data; follow any link to verify a figure or pull deeper detail than we publish here.
Methodology: Listing data is sourced via Repliers IDX feed (Las Vegas MLS) and refreshed every 15 minutes. Demographic and economic data are pulled monthly via Census/BLS APIs. School data is refreshed quarterly. All comparisons are like-for-like (same metric, same time period).
Updated: September 2026 · Next update: September 15