Aerial view of downtown Reno, the Truckee River and tree-lined neighborhoods below the Sierra Nevada
Established Neighborhood · Southeast Reno · No HOA

Donner Springs Homes For Sale

Nevada's #1 team for Donner Springs real estate. Search established single-family homes in southeast Reno — 1960s–1980s tract homes, most with no HOA, priced $400K–$700K+, 10 minutes from the airport and 12 minutes from downtown.

Browse Homes

Where Can You Find Donner Springs Homes for Sale?

Donner Springs carries roughly 60–80 active listings across ZIPs 89511 and 89502 as of June 2026 according to NREG’s MLS analysis and Northern Nevada Regional MLS data, spanning $400K entry-level tract homes to $700K+ updated single-family properties. The eight newest listings appear below, refreshed throughout the day, with every active Donner Springs home searchable in our live MLS portal.

  • MEDIAN LIST PRICE (ZIPS 89511, 89502)

    $762K

    NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of October 29, 2026

  • DAYS ON MARKET (ZIPS 89511, 89502)

    56

    NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of October 29, 2026

  • PROPERTY TYPE

    Single-Family (No HOA)

    NNRMLS listing data

  • TO AIRPORT

    10 min

    Reno-Tahoe Intl via I-580

Chris Nevada, Founder of Nevada Real Estate Group

Written by

Chris Nevada

Founder, Nevada Real Estate Group · Nevada License S.181401

16+ years in Nevada real estate

Page updated October 21, 2026

Property research

Verify for your address

Confirm current school assignments, association documents, parcel taxes, and insurance with the applicable sources.

Last updated

October 21, 2026

Individual data periods may differ from the page update date.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

What Should You Know About Donner Springs at a Glance?

Donner Springs is an established southeast Reno neighborhood with a median list price near $762,000 per NREG’s MLS analysis data and single-family homes selling in about 28 days according to Northern Nevada Regional MLS. Most homes carry no HOA. The five takeaways below distill what those numbers mean for buyers considering established suburban living in southeast Reno.

  • Property type: Single-family residential — 1960s–1980s tract homes on flat, tree-lined streets; most homes carry no HOA in ZIPs 89511 and 89502.
  • Median list price: $762,000 (October 2026) — from $400K entry-level 3-bedroom homes to $700K+ updated and expanded properties.
  • Best for: Families, first-time buyers, California relocators, and workforce buyers who want a single-family home without monthly HOA fees in a flat, bikeable southeast Reno location.
  • No HOA advantage: Most homes carry no HOA — saving $1,200–$3,600 per year compared to newer south Reno master plans that require monthly assessments.
  • Key advantage: 10-minute airport access, 12-minute downtown commute, zero Nevada state income tax, and $400K–$700K+ price range for established single-family living.

Last updated October 2026 · Sources: NREG’s MLS analysis, U.S. Census, NNRMLS

PRICE DISTRIBUTION

How Many Donner Springs Homes Sell in Each Price Range?

The Donner Springs median list price sits at $762K per NREG’s MLS analysis October 2026 NNRMLS data, with inventory clustering in the $450K–$650K single-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.

Under $450K

3

active listings

Browse Under $450K →

$450K–$540K

2

active listings

Browse $450K–$540K →

$540K–$650K

0

active listings

Browse $540K–$650K →

$650K–$700K

0

active listings

Browse $650K–$700K →

$700K+

0

active listings

Browse $700K+ →
Browse Donner Springs Listings

How Can You Find a Donner Springs Home by Type, Price & Lifestyle?

Donner Springs' roughly 65 active listings span five price bands, multiple home sizes, and the lifestyle filters below — each link opens our live NNRMLS search pre-filtered to that slice, with counts updated daily from NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS data.

Which Southeast Reno Neighborhoods Should You Explore?

Tap a community card to see current listings, price ranges, HOA details, and what daily life looks like inside each southeast Reno neighborhood.

302 active listings across ZIPs 89511, 89502 as of October 29, 2026 · MLS data

STAY AHEAD OF THE MARKET

How Can You Get New Donner Springs Listings First?

Custom alerts by price, beds, baths, and no-HOA filter — no spam, unsubscribe anytime. With Donner Springs homes going under contract in a median 28 days per NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data, buyers who see new listings within hours hold a real edge over buyers who check portals weekly.

  • Custom criteria — neighborhood, price, beds, baths, features
  • Instant alerts — emailed within minutes of a new MLS listing
  • 1,200+ buyers used NREG alerts last year

Create your alert

School planning

Which Schools Serve a Reno Address?

Ask the district for the address-specific school assignment for the enrollment year, since boundaries change, and confirm it before you buy. Proximity to a school does not guarantee admission; charter, magnet and private schools set their own rules. Check Washoe school zoning · Nevada Report Card

CRIME DATA

How Can You Check Reported Crime Near a Home?

Ask the law-enforcement agency that serves the address for its current reports, and compare places only across the same reporting period, boundary and offense definitions. Missing records do not mean zero crime, the FBI cautions against ranking communities on crime totals alone, and a citywide figure does not describe a particular street.

FBI crime data resources · FBI guidance on comparing communities

Living In

What's It Like Living in Donner Springs, Reno?


The Answer

Donner Springs offers established single-family living in southeast Reno: flat, bikeable streets, 1960s–1980s tract homes with generous lot sizes, most with no HOA, priced $400K–$700K+. The City of Reno maintains the southeast corridor, and Meadowood Mall, Rosewood Lakes Golf Course, and Hidden Valley Golf Course are all within 10 minutes. Zero Nevada state income tax sweetens every relocation budget.

What is Donner Springs known for?

Donner Springs is known for its established tree-lined streets, no-HOA single-family homes from the 1960s–1980s, and its flat, bikeable character in southeast Reno. The neighborhood sits close to Meadowood Mall, two golf courses (Rosewood Lakes and Hidden Valley), and the I-580 corridor — making it one of the most commute-convenient established neighborhoods in the Reno metro at its price point.

Who should live in Donner Springs?

Donner Springs fits families who want a single-family home without HOA fees, first-time buyers entering the Reno market under $500K, workforce couples relocating for southeast Reno employment, California relocators who want value-priced suburban living with Nevada's zero income tax, and investors looking for no-restriction single-family rental properties in a stable southeast Reno neighborhood.

What is daily life like in Donner Springs?

Daily life in Donner Springs centers on quiet suburban routines: morning bike rides on flat neighborhood streets, errands at Meadowood Mall or the S Virginia St retail corridor, afternoon golf at Rosewood Lakes or Hidden Valley, and a 10-minute drive to Reno-Tahoe International Airport for travel. Lake Tahoe is about 55 minutes via NV-431 for weekend mountain and beach recreation.

Location

Where Is Donner Springs

Donner Springs is located in southeast Reno (ZIPs 89511 and 89502), about 5 miles from downtown at the base of Rattlesnake Mountain. The neighborhood borders the Hidden Valley and South Meadows corridors to the south, with I-580 providing direct access north to downtown Reno and south to the airport. Elevation approximately 4,500 ft.

Downtown Reno
12
Min
Airport
10
Min
Meadowood Mall
10
Min
Lake Tahoe
55
Min
Sparks
20
Min

Donner Springs

At a Glance
$762,000
Median List Price (ZIPs 89511/89502)
302
Active Listings (ZIPs 89511, 89502)
~$260
Price / Sq Ft
56
Days on Market (ZIPs 89511, 89502)

Median, active-listing and days-on-market tiles: NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of October 29, 2026.

Community Type
Established Suburban Neighborhood
ZIP Codes
89511 + 89502
Established
1960s–1980s
Price Range
$400K–$700K+
HOA
None (most homes)
Guard-Gated
No
Lot Size (typical)
6,000–9,000 sq ft
School District
Washoe County School District
To Downtown Reno
12 min
To Lake Tahoe
~55 min
Airport
Reno-Tahoe Intl (10 min)
Census Housing Data / Donner Springs

What Does the Census Show About Housing in Donner Springs?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the tiles below compare housing and population figures for Donner Springs and its surrounding area with the wider county. Each tile's label names the area it covers.

These are housing and population counts only. We don't describe who lives in a neighborhood or suggest which buyers it suits. Compare homes by their features, location, HOA terms and total cost, and use the Census source for the full tables.

Population (ZIPs 89511/89502)
77,647
vs Washoe Co 509,386
Home Value (ZIP 89502)
~$413K
vs Washoe Co $540K
Owner-Occupied (ZIPs 89511/89502)
~49%
vs Washoe Co 60%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates (ZIPs 89511/89502) and Vintage 2025 population estimates (Washoe County) · Updated

POPULATION & GROWTH

How Fast Is the Donner Springs Area Growing?

Southeast Reno has grown steadily as Reno-Sparks MSA employment has expanded and California households have relocated for Nevada's tax and cost-of-living advantage. The Donner Springs and Hidden Valley corridor has attracted owner-occupant families who value flat terrain, no HOA, and established schools over the master-plan premiums of newer south Reno communities.

77,647ZIPs 89511/89502 residents (ACS 2020–24)
$540KMedian list price (June 2026)
+11.1%ZIPs 89511/89502 growth, 2010–2020 (Census)

ZIPs 89511/89502 population trajectory, 2010–2024 (Census counts and ACS)

Growth in southeast Reno tracks the Reno-Sparks MSA's employment expansion, Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center buildout, and net in-migration from California and the Bay Area. The Donner Springs and Hidden Valley corridor has attracted families and workforce couples who want established suburban living without master-plan HOA costs.

2010
68,577
2020
76,205
2020–24 ACS
77,647

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (decennial counts) and U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024. ZIPs 89511/89502: 2010 and 2020 are decennial Census counts; the last bar is the ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimate. Last updated September 2026.

REPORTED MARKET SERIES

How Is the Donner Springs Real Estate Market Trending?

Median list price, days on market, and active inventory from Northern Nevada Regional MLS ZIPs 89511 and 89502 data, updated monthly. The Donner Springs corridor has tracked near $540K over the past year with roughly 60–80 active listings — the three charts below show the past twelve months.

Median List Price (ZIPs 89511/89502)

+2.3% YoY (May 2025 → May 2026)

Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers

Days on Market

22 → 28 days YoY (seasonal softening winter)

Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers

Active Listings

~65 monthly average, seasonal winter dip

Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers

The long view: the median sold price in ZIPs 89511, 89502 rose 102% between 2015 ($260,000) and 2021 ($524,000), across 10,277 recorded closings — Northern Nevada Regional MLS (NNRMLS) records via Repliers.

56
MEDIAN DAYS ON MARKET (ZIPS 89511, 89502) · OCT 29, 2026
$762K
MEDIAN LIST PRICE (ZIPS 89511, 89502) · OCT 29, 2026
302
ACTIVE LISTINGS (ZIPs 89511/89502) · OCT 29, 2026
< 1 hr
OUR RESPONSE TIME

HOMES MOVING FAST

Get matched with a
Donner Springs specialist.

Market Competitiveness

How Competitive Is the Donner Springs Market Right Now?

Donner Springs is moderately competitive — well-priced, updated single-family homes go under contract in roughly three to four weeks per NNRMLS data. The $400K–$550K entry-to-mid band moves fastest at 22–28 median days; larger or original-condition homes above $620K typically take five to eight weeks as the qualified buyer pool narrows.

  • 28 daysMedian days on market (ZIPs 89511/89502)
  • $260Median price per sq ft
  • 22–46DOM range by tier
  • 302Active listings (ZIPs 89511, 89502, October 29, 2026)
Before You Buy

What Should You Compare Before Buying a Home in Donner Springs?

Compare individual homes by the features, services, and total ownership costs that matter to you. The points below can help structure your property research before you make an offer.

Which Donner Springs Profile Fits Your Buyer Type?

First-Time Buyers

  • Entry homes from $400K
  • FHA and conventional eligible
  • No HOA reduces monthly carrying cost
  • Strong resale demand — 28-day median DOM
Best for First-Time Buyers →

California Relocators

  • $400K–$700K for SFR vs $1.2M+ Bay Area
  • Zero Nevada state income tax
  • No HOA — familiar suburban feel without extra cost
  • Lake Tahoe 55 minutes away
Best for California Relocators →

Workforce / Remote Workers

  • 10 min to airport for occasional travel
  • South Meadows employer corridor 10 min
  • Zero Nevada income tax on remote earnings
  • Flat bikeable neighborhood for work-life balance
Best for Workforce / Remote Workers →

Best Fit For

  • First-time buyers — Entry homes from $400K with FHA eligibility and no HOA fees give new buyers more monthly cashflow than comparable master-plan properties.
  • California relocators — $400K–$700K for a backyard single-family home versus $1.2M+ Bay Area equivalents — plus zero Nevada income tax on remote or investment income.
  • Remote workers — 10-minute airport access, flat biking terrain for daily variety, and Nevada income tax savings on remote earnings.
  • Investors and landlords — No HOA rental restrictions, single-family rental demand at $2,000–$2,800/month, and zero Nevada tax on appreciation at sale.

Ready to explore homes in Donner Springs? Our team knows every block, what updated homes command, and how to evaluate 1960s–1980s construction in the inspection.

Start Your Donner Springs Search

Pros

  • No HOA on most homes — saves $1,200–$3,600 per year versus comparable master plans
  • Flat, bikeable terrain — unusual for a Reno suburban neighborhood
  • Zero Nevada state income tax — five-figure annual savings versus California
  • 10-minute airport access via I-580
  • Rosewood Lakes and Hidden Valley Golf Courses within 10 minutes
  • Property taxes capped at 3% annual growth under Nevada law

Honest Considerations

  • Older construction (1960s–1980s) requires thorough inspection — roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical all need evaluation
  • Not walkable to restaurants or retail — a car is needed for most errands
  • Less community amenity infrastructure than newer HOA master plans (no community pool or clubhouse)
  • Tract home similarity — blocks can feel repetitive; updated homes at premium prices are the differentiation
  • I-580 and S McCarran Blvd proximity can generate road noise on blocks closest to the arterials

Neighborhood Comparison

How Does Donner Springs Compare to Hidden Valley, Damonte Ranch & South Meadows?

A like-for-like comparison of four southeast Reno neighborhoods — median price, price per square foot, days on market, HOA, and lifestyle fit — using active-listing data refreshed monthly via NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS. Prices span $540K in Donner Springs to $600K+ in South Meadows.

Donner Springs vs. southeast Reno neighborhood comparison · June 2026
SubmarketMedian Price$ / Sq FtDays on MarketActive ListingsBest For
Donner Springs$540,000~$2602865Value · No HOA · Families
Hidden Valley$580,000~$2753055Golf · Views · Established
Damonte Ranch$575,000~$2803280Master Plan · Newer · Family
South Meadows$610,000~$2953070Employment Hub · Newer · Retail
Caramella Ranch$595,000~$2853145Newer · South Reno

Source: NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS data, June 2026. Median prices based on active listings; days on market from closed sales.

Neighborhood Deep Dive

What's Inside Each Southeast Reno Neighborhood?

Submarket 1

Donner Springs

Established 1960s–1980s single-family homes on flat, bikeable streets in southeast Reno — most homes carry no HOA, priced $400K–$700K+, with Galena HS and Hunsberger ES in the district.

Browse Donner Springs homes →
$540KMedian Price
28Days on Market
65Active Listings
~$260Price / Sq Ft

Submarket 2

Hidden Valley

An established neighborhood east of Donner Springs with Hidden Valley Golf Course on-site, mountain views, and a slightly higher median than Donner Springs for comparable square footage.

Browse Hidden Valley homes →
$580KMedian Price
30Days on Market
55Active Listings
~$275Price / Sq Ft

Submarket 3

Damonte Ranch

A 1990s–2010s master-planned community south of Donner Springs with mandatory HOA fees of $100–$250/month — newer construction, community amenities, and a slightly higher price per square foot.

Browse Damonte Ranch homes →
$575KMedian Price
32Days on Market
80Active Listings
~$280Price / Sq Ft

Submarket 4

South Meadows

The major employment hub of south Reno — anchored by healthcare, tech, and logistics employers — with newer construction at a $610K median and HOA fees in most communities.

Browse South Meadows homes →
$610KMedian Price
30Days on Market
70Active Listings
~$295Price / Sq Ft

Submarket 5

Caramella Ranch

A newer south Reno community with more recent construction than Donner Springs, modest HOA, and a higher median price point — popular with buyers who want newer build quality at moderate premium.

Browse Caramella Ranch homes →
$595KMedian Price
31Days on Market
45Active Listings
~$285Price / Sq Ft

Submarket 6

The No-HOA Value Corridor

Donner Springs is the anchor of southeast Reno's no-HOA value corridor — established blocks where buyers get 6,000–9,000 sq ft lots, Galena HS access, and single-family privacy without the $100–$250/month HOA assessments that dominate newer master plans. At a $540K median, it's the most cost-efficient established suburban purchase in the southeast Reno market.

Browse The No-HOA Value Corridor homes →
$400K+Entry From
No HOAMost Homes
9/10Galena HS
10 minTo Airport

Where Is Donner Springs on the Map?

Donner Springs occupies the southeast Reno corridor (ZIPs 89511 and 89502), about 5 miles from downtown at the base of Rattlesnake Mountain. Hidden Valley is immediately to the east, Damonte Ranch and South Meadows are to the south, and I-580 provides direct access to downtown Reno (12 min north) and Reno-Tahoe International Airport (10 min south).

#1
TEAM IN NEVADA
9,600+
HOMES SOLD SINCE 2011
9,097+
★★★★★ REVIEWS
< 1 hr
AVERAGE RESPONSE

STILL DECIDING?

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Reno neighborhood fits?

BY ZIP CODE

What Does the Market Look Like in ZIPs 89511 and 89502?

ZIPs 89511 and 89502 cover the Donner Springs and southeast Reno corridor. The table below puts these ZIPs 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.

Reno ZIP code market comparison with 89511/89502 (Donner Springs) highlighted · June 2026
ZIPPrimary AreaMedian Price$ / Sq FtDays on MarketActiveYoY
89511Donner Springs · Hidden Valley · SE Reno$540K~$2602865+2.3%
89502Southeast Reno · South Meadows adjacent$510K~$2553058+1.9%
89521Damonte Ranch · South Meadows$595K~$28531180+2.5%
89519Old Southwest · Caughlin Ranch$725K~$34036142+3.1%
89523Somersett · Northwest Reno$620K~$31532210+1.9%
89509Midtown · Central · Lakeridge$450K~$31533174+1.8%

Source: NREG’s MLS analysis 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.

Outdoor Recreation

What Outdoor Amenities Does Donner Springs Offer?

Donner Springs' outdoor life centers on flat neighborhood cycling and two nearby golf courses — Rosewood Lakes and Hidden Valley are both under 10 minutes away. Lake Tahoe and Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe are about 55 minutes out. The City of Reno maintains the southeast parks network, with Bartley Ranch and Galena Creek Recreation Area within 20–30 minutes.

10 MIN

Rosewood Lakes Golf Course

18 holesGolfGreen fees

A challenging public 18-hole course with water features and tree-lined fairways on the southeast Reno corridor — one of the most scenic public courses in the Reno metro and a 10-minute drive from Donner Springs.

8 MIN

Hidden Valley Golf Course

18 holesGolfGreen fees

An established 18-hole public course in the Hidden Valley area, just east of Donner Springs — popular with residents who want a quick weekday round without driving to South Reno.

10 MIN

Meadowood Mall

Regional mallShopping · Dining · EntertainmentFree

The largest indoor mall in Northern Nevada, with major anchors, national retailers, and a movie theater — a 10-minute drive from Donner Springs via S McCarran Blvd.

20 MIN

Bartley Ranch Regional Park

56 acresTrails · EquestrianFree

Trails, an amphitheater, and equestrian facilities at the edge of the south Reno neighborhoods — a quick drive from Donner Springs via I-580.

30 MIN

Galena Creek Recreation Area

230+ acresHiking · PicnicsFree

Forested Sierra trails and a visitor center on the Mt. Rose Highway — the closest wilderness trailhead to Reno and a 30-minute drive from Donner Springs.

55 MIN

Lake Tahoe (Incline Village)

191 sq miBoating · Beaches · SkiingFree shoreline

North America's largest alpine lake — public beaches at Sand Harbor and Kings Beach, marinas, and a dozen surrounding ski resorts within one drive.

60 MIN

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

1,200 acresSkiing · SnowboardingTicketed

The closest major ski resort to Reno, with the highest base elevation at Lake Tahoe and dependable deep Sierra snow from November through April.

20 MIN

Rancho San Rafael Park

595 acresTrails · Events · ArboretumFree

Reno's flagship regional park — home to the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum, and miles of walking trails, 20 minutes from Donner Springs via I-580 north.

The Donner Springs Lifestyle

What Does a Weekend in Donner Springs Look Like?

A Saturday in Donner Springs runs from a flat neighborhood bike ride to the golf course to the mountains: morning round at Rosewood Lakes per the City of Reno, afternoon shopping at Meadowood Mall, evening at a south Reno restaurant — and Lake Tahoe 55 minutes away for Sunday. Established suburban living without the master-plan price tag.

300+Days of Sun
10 minTo Airport
55 minTo Lake Tahoe
No HOAMost Homes

THIS WEEKEND'S OPEN HOUSES

Can You Tour Donner Springs Homes This Weekend?

Donner Springs single-family homes typically hold weekend open houses on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. For occupied homes, contact the listing agent for a private showing. Set up instant alerts for your price range or browse active listings now — our team can coordinate same-day showings on new southeast Reno listings.

Planning a move

What Should I Verify Before Moving to Donner Springs?

Budget around the specific home, not a community average. Before you compare the cost of a move to Donner Springs, get these in writing:

  • The parcel's annual assessment, prior-year tax bill and abatement eligibility. A sale alone does not reset Nevada’s tax cap. Nevada tax-abatement rules
  • Lender, insurance and utility quotes for the exact address, plus the association's resale documents and any special assessments.
  • The school assignment for the enrollment year, confirmed with the district.
  • Your tax situation, reviewed by an adviser — California-source income can remain taxable after a move (Franchise Tax Board).
  • Qualifying new residents generally must obtain a Nevada driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days. Check the Nevada DMV’s requirements and exceptions for your circumstances.

The full step-by-step relocation checklist, from timeline to first-week setup, is in one place.

Open the relocation guide

ECONOMY & JOBS

What Drives the Economy Near Donner Springs?

Donner Springs residents sit within 10–15 minutes of the Reno-Sparks MSA job base — healthcare, logistics, technology, and services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSA unemployment was 4.0% in July 2026 (BLS, preliminary), with jobs driven by South Meadows and Damonte Ranch healthcare and tech employers, plus Tesla, Switch, and Panasonic at the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (35 min via I-80).

$124,130 / $65,328Median household income, ZIP 89511 / ZIP 89502U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024
Renown HealthNorthern Nevada's largest healthcare system15 min via I-580 north
10 minTo South Meadows employer corridorVia S McCarran Blvd / I-580
10 minTo Reno-Tahoe International AirportVia I-580 south

Top Reno-Area Employers (Commutable from Donner Springs)

  • South Meadows Healthcare CorridorSt. Mary's Regional Medical Center and outpatient healthcare employers — 10 minutes south via I-580
  • Renown HealthNorthern Nevada's largest healthcare system, 15 minutes north via I-580 to downtown Reno
  • SwitchHyperscale data centers, Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (~35 min east via I-80)
  • Tesla Gigafactory NevadaBattery & EV manufacturing, Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (~35 min east via I-80)
  • University of Nevada, RenoR1 research university, 20 minutes northwest via I-580 / US-395
  • City of Reno / Washoe CountyGovernment employment concentrated downtown Reno — 12 minutes north via I-580

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau (ZIP 89511), U.S. Census Bureau (ZIP 89502). Last updated June 2026.

NEIGHBORHOOD COMPARISON

How Does Donner Springs Compare to Hidden Valley, Damonte Ranch & South Meadows?

Choosing between southeast Reno neighborhoods? This table compares Donner Springs (median $540K, no HOA), Hidden Valley ($580K, golf-adjacent), Damonte Ranch ($575K, master plan), and South Meadows ($610K, employment hub). Metrics are from NREG’s MLS analysis, the U.S. Census, and BLS Reno-Sparks MSA.

Donner Springs vs. Hidden Valley vs. Damonte Ranch vs. South Meadows · June 2026
MetricDonner SpringsHidden ValleyDamonte RanchSouth Meadows
Median List Price$540K$580K$575K$610K
Price / Sq Ft~$260~$275~$280~$295
Days on Market28303230
HOA / MonthNone (most homes)$0–$150$100–$250$100–$300
Established1960s–1980s1970s–1990s1990s–2010s2000s–2020s
Dominant TypeEstablished SFRSFR w/ GolfMaster Plan SFRNewer SFR
Best ForValue · No HOA · FamiliesGolf · Views · EstablishedNewer Build · AmenitiesEmployment · Newer · Retail

Sources: NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data, U.S. Census ACS. Last updated June 2026.

Cost of Ownership

What Will Donner Springs Cost You Each Month?

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.

Illustrative Payment Estimator

Estimate Your Donner Springs Payment

Home Price
$540,000
$540,000
$540,000
Down Payment
10% / $54,000
10% / $54,000
10% / $54,000
Interest Rate
7.0%
7.0%
7.0%
Term Years
30
30
30
Annual Property Tax Assumption
$3,200
$3,200
$3,200
Annual Insurance Assumption
$1,800
$1,800
$1,800
Monthly HOA Assumption
$200
$200
$200
Annual PMI Rate Assumption
0.50%
0.50%
0.50%
$4,053
Illustrative Monthly Payment
  • Principal & Interest$3,233
  • Property Tax$267
  • Insurance$150
  • HOA$200
  • PMI$203
Talk to a Lender

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.

COMMUTE & TRANSPORTATION

How Easy Is Getting Around from Donner Springs?

From Donner Springs, the airport is 10 minutes via I-580, downtown Reno is 12 minutes north, and the South Meadows employer corridor is 10 minutes south. Mean commute times in ZIPs 89511/89502 run near 20 minutes per U.S. Census ACS data — well below Bay Area averages most relocators leave behind. Flat terrain makes cycling practical for school runs and errands.

Drive Times from Donner Springs

  • 10 minReno-Tahoe Intl AirportVia I-580 south
  • 12 minDowntown RenoVia I-580 north
  • 10 minMeadowood MallVia S McCarran Blvd
  • 10 minSouth MeadowsVia S McCarran Blvd / I-580
  • 8 minDamonte RanchVia S McCarran Blvd
  • 55 minLake Tahoe (Incline Village)Via I-580 south to NV-431
  • 35 minTahoe-Reno Industrial CenterVia I-580 north to I-80 east
  • 20 minSparksVia I-580 north to I-80 east

Transportation Options

  • Driving

    The primary mode for most residents — I-580 and S McCarran Blvd provide fast access to the airport, downtown, Meadowood Mall, and the South Meadows employer corridor. Traffic is light compared to Bay Area equivalents.

  • Cycling

    Donner Springs is unusually flat for a Reno suburb — making cycling to neighborhood schools, local parks, and Meadowood Mall practical. Bike lanes connect to the broader southeast Reno corridor.

  • RTC RIDE Transit

    Reno's bus network reaches southeast Reno with routes along S McCarran Blvd and S Virginia St. Transit-dependent buyers should verify specific route frequency and coverage before relying on it for daily commutes.

  • Air Travel

    Reno-Tahoe International Airport is 10 minutes south via I-580 — direct flights to Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Among the shortest suburban-to-airport drives in the Western US.

Drive times are typical off-peak estimates for the route named; check live traffic before you rely on one.

Quick Answer

How long does it take to close on a home in Donner Springs?

Most Donner Springs home purchases close in 30 to 45 days from accepted offer — cash offers can close in 7–14 days. Financed purchases (conventional, FHA, or VA) run 30–45 days; single-family homes here have no building-approval hurdle like downtown condos. Allow an extra 5–7 days if an inspection addendum requires negotiation on older mechanical systems.

Quick Answer

What credit score do you need to buy a home in Donner Springs?

Conventional loans generally want 620+ credit; FHA allows 580+ with 3.5% down for eligible buyers. VA loans require no minimum score by VA policy, though most lenders want 580–620+. Single-family homes in Donner Springs qualify for all three loan types with no building-approval restrictions. Jumbo financing — required above $833K — typically requires 700+ with 20% down. No Donner Springs homes currently trade above jumbo threshold, so standard agency financing applies across the market.

Donner Springs FAQ — 17 Answers

What Do Donner Springs Buyers Most Frequently Ask?

Most Asked

What is the median home price in Donner Springs?

The median asking price for a Donner Springs home is about $762,000 per NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data data for ZIPs 89511 and 89502, at roughly $260 per square foot. Entry-level 3-bedroom tract homes in original condition start near $400K, updated mid-range homes cluster around $500K–$600K, and larger renovated properties or expanded lots push $700K and above.

What makes Donner Springs different from other southeast Reno neighborhoods?

Donner Springs is one of the few established Reno neighborhoods where most homes carry no HOA, keeping monthly costs low for buyers who want value-priced single-family living in a flat, bikeable area. The 1960s–1980s tract stock delivers larger lot sizes than newer south Reno master plans at a lower per-square-foot cost, just 10–12 minutes from downtown and the airport.

What types of properties are available in Donner Springs?

Donner Springs is single-family residential: primarily 3- and 4-bedroom tract homes built from the 1960s through the 1980s on quiet, tree-lined streets. Lot sizes are consistent — typically 6,000–9,000 sq ft. Most homes carry no HOA. A smaller inventory of updated homes with remodeled kitchens and baths also trades at a premium in the $600K–$700K+ range.

What are property taxes like in Donner Springs?

Property taxes follow Washoe County's effective rate of roughly 0.5–0.7% of market value. Nevada caps annual increases on a primary residence at 3% under Nevada Revised Statutes 361.4723 once the owner claims it (homes that are not owner-occupied get a cap of up to 8%). On a $762K Donner Springs home, the annual tax bill typically runs $3,810–$5,330 per the Washoe County Assessor — and Nevada's zero state income tax means the total carrying cost compares favorably to any California equivalent.

How competitive is the Donner Springs real estate market?

Donner Springs homes typically sell in about 56 days from list to accepted offer per NNRMLS data for ZIPs 89511 and 89502, tracking the broader southeast Reno corridor. Well-priced, updated homes in the $450K–$600K range often receive multiple offers within the first two weeks. Larger or original-condition homes above $650K may sit 40–55 days as the qualified buyer pool narrows.

What schools serve Donner Springs?

Donner Springs falls within the Washoe County School District. Typical assigned schools include Hunsberger Elementary (K-6, GreatSchools 8/10), Pine Middle School, and Galena High School — one of the top-rated high schools in Northern Nevada at 9/10. Charter options including Coral Academy of Science are accessible within the district. Assignments depend on your specific address; verify before purchase.

What amenities and shopping are near Donner Springs?

Meadowood Mall is about 10 minutes away via S McCarran Blvd — the largest indoor mall in Northern Nevada, with major anchors and national retailers. S Virginia St and South Meadows Pkwy add grocery stores, big-box retailers, and restaurant corridors. Rosewood Lakes Golf Course and Hidden Valley Golf Course are both within 10 minutes. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is also roughly 10 minutes south via I-580.

Does Donner Springs have an HOA?

Most Donner Springs homes carry no HOA — a meaningful cost advantage over newer south Reno master plans where HOA fees of $100–$300/month are standard. A small number of homes in newer pocket developments within the ZIP may carry minimal assessments; confirm HOA status on each specific listing before making an offer.

How does Donner Springs compare to Damonte Ranch?

Damonte Ranch is a newer master-planned community (1990s–2010s) with mandatory HOA fees of $100–$250/month and newer construction at a $450K–$700K+ price range. Donner Springs is older (1960s–1980s), predominantly HOA-free, and priced similarly at $400K–$700K+ — giving buyers more lot for the money without the monthly assessment. Damonte Ranch has more community amenities; Donner Springs has no ongoing HOA cost.

What is the rental market like in Donner Springs?

Donner Springs single-family homes typically rent for $2,000–$2,800/month (a rough NREG estimate; check current lease listings), with 3-bedroom units driving demand from families and working couples relocating for Reno-Sparks MSA employment. No HOA restrictions on rentals in most homes make Donner Springs accessible to long-term investment buyers who want a hands-off single-family rental.

What is the Nevada vs. California tax advantage for Donner Springs buyers?

Nevada has zero state income tax — California's top marginal rate reaches 13.3% per the Franchise Tax Board. A household earning $250,000 saves roughly $20,000 per year by establishing Nevada residency. Combined with Washoe County property taxes capped at 3% annual growth under NRS 361.4723, Donner Springs buyers enjoy a total tax load significantly lower than any comparable California suburb.

How long does it take to get from Donner Springs to key Reno destinations?

Donner Springs sits roughly 12 minutes from Downtown Reno via I-580, 10 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, 10 minutes from Meadowood Mall, and about 55 minutes from Incline Village on Lake Tahoe via NV-431. The South Meadows and Damonte Ranch employment corridors are 5–10 minutes away. For Bay Area relocators, the commute footprint is dramatically shorter than any Bay Area suburb.

What should I know before buying in Donner Springs?

Budget for deferred maintenance on 1960s–1980s homes — inspect the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical carefully. Most homes have no HOA, which is a cost advantage but also means no community funds for shared amenities. Lot sizes are generous for the price. Confirm school assignments by your specific address, as ZIPs 89511 and 89502 span multiple school attendance areas within WCSD.

Is Donner Springs a good investment for long-term buyers?

Donner Springs has tracked Reno metro appreciation — roughly 2–3% annually since 2020 — with a solid floor of demand from families and workforce buyers who value the no-HOA cost structure and southeast Reno access. Long-term investors benefit from no rental restrictions, consistent single-family rental demand at $2,000–$2,800/month, and Nevada capital gains treatment (no state tax on appreciation at sale).

What is the minimum down payment to buy in Donner Springs?

Most Donner Springs buyers put down 5%–20%. Conventional loans start at 3% for qualified first-time buyers; FHA allows 3.5% with 580+ credit — and single-family homes in Donner Springs are eligible for FHA financing (no building-approval hurdle unlike downtown condos). At the $762K ZIP median, 5% down is $38,100 and 20% is $152,400. Call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 to confirm which loan type fits your income and credit profile.

Is Donner Springs better than Damonte Ranch for value buyers?

It depends on priorities. Donner Springs offers no-HOA single-family homes at $400K–$700K+ with larger lot sizes from the 1960s–1980s era — ideal for buyers who want to avoid monthly assessments. Damonte Ranch has newer construction and master-plan amenities but mandatory HOA fees of $100–$250/month. Both are in the same southeast Reno commute zone; the HOA savings of $1,200–$3,000 per year in Donner Springs tilts the math for cost-conscious buyers.

Can Nevada Real Estate Group help me buy in Donner Springs?

Yes — our Reno team knows the Donner Springs and southeast Reno market in detail, including which blocks command premium pricing for updated homes, how to evaluate 1960s–1980s construction on inspection, and how to write a competitive offer in the current market. Call us at (775) 277-2120 or start your search at the link above. Response time under one hour during business hours.

Updated October 2026

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PEOPLE ALSO ASK

What Else Do People Ask About Donner Springs?

Beyond the FAQ above, these are the queries Donner Springs buyers actually type into Google and AI assistants — answered with specifics you can verify: prices from the NREG’s MLS analysis, school ratings from GreatSchools, tax data from the Washoe County Assessor and Nevada Revised Statutes, and employer data from BLS.

Is Donner Springs a good place to raise a family?

Yes — Donner Springs is well-suited for families: flat bikeable streets, Galena High School (9/10) and Hunsberger Elementary (8/10) in the WCSD, no HOA on most homes, and a quiet established neighborhood character. It lacks the pool and clubhouse amenities of newer master plans, but the combination of school quality, flat terrain, and no-HOA savings makes it a strong family value.

What is the difference between Donner Springs and Damonte Ranch?

Donner Springs is established (1960s–1980s construction), predominantly no-HOA, and priced from $400K–$700K+. Damonte Ranch is newer (1990s–2010s), with mandatory HOA fees of $100–$250/month, community amenities, and a slightly higher median. Both share access to Galena HS. The HOA savings in Donner Springs — $1,200–$3,000/year — is the primary cost differentiator for budget-conscious buyers.

Are homes in Donner Springs good investments?

Donner Springs has tracked Reno metro appreciation — roughly 2–3% annually since 2020 — with a consistent demand floor from families and workforce buyers. No HOA means no rental restrictions, making these homes accessible as long-term rentals at $2,000–$2,800/month. Nevada charges zero state income tax on rental income and appreciation, improving net returns versus California-owned investment property.

What are the drawbacks of Donner Springs?

The primary drawbacks: older construction (1960s–1980s) requires thorough inspection and ongoing maintenance budgeting; the neighborhood is not walkable to restaurants or retail (a car is essential); and there are no community amenities like pools or clubhouses compared to HOA master plans. The flat terrain and no-HOA savings offset most of these for buyers who weigh value over amenity infrastructure.

How close is Donner Springs to Lake Tahoe?

Donner Springs is about 55 minutes from Incline Village on Lake Tahoe's north shore via US-395 south to NV-431. Sand Harbor State Park is approximately 60 minutes. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe — the closest major ski resort to Reno — is about 60 minutes via the same Mt. Rose Highway route. The Sierra Nevada access is a genuine quality-of-life asset for Donner Springs residents.

What internet speeds are available in Donner Springs?

Donner Springs is served by AT&T Fiber and Charter Spectrum in most of the ZIP 89511 and 89502 area, with gigabit internet available to most addresses. The established neighborhood infrastructure is well-served by both cable and fiber providers — adequate for remote work, video conferencing, and multi-device households. Verify specific address availability at the provider's website before closing.

Does Donner Springs flood?

Most of Donner Springs is in FEMA flood zone X — minimal flood hazard. The neighborhood's established grade and drainage infrastructure reflects decades of development. Buyers near the Steamboat Creek drainage corridor should verify FEMA flood map status for their specific parcel at the Washoe County GIS portal before closing. Flood insurance is not required in zone X but recommended near any drainage.

What is the elevation of Donner Springs?

Donner Springs sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation at the base of Rattlesnake Mountain in southeast Reno. At this elevation, Reno's desert climate delivers more than 300 sunny days per year, low humidity, and mild summers (average July high ~95°F) with access to Sierra Nevada skiing 55–60 minutes away. The elevation is relevant for new residents arriving from lower altitudes — mild adjustment for most buyers.

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Deep block-by-block knowledge of Donner Springs — 1960s–1980s inspection guidance, no-HOA market nuances, and school assignment verification — backed by 150+ licensed agents, 9,097+ verified five-star reviews, and 9,600+ closed transactions totaling $4.85B+. Nevada Real Estate Group ranks #1 in Nevada and covers every Donner Springs price tier from $400K entry homes to $700K+ renovated properties.

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NEARBY COMMUNITIES

Which Communities Are Near Donner Springs?

Compare Donner Springs with neighboring southeast Reno neighborhoods and nearby Northern Nevada options. Each card pairs the drive time with the community's price positioning, so you can judge whether moving to an adjacent area buys you more home or different amenities for the money.

8 MIN E

Hidden Valley

$580K

8 min from Donner Springs

View Hidden Valley →

8 MIN S

Damonte Ranch

$575K

8 min from Donner Springs

View Damonte Ranch →

12 MIN S

Caramella Ranch

$595K

12 min from Donner Springs

View Caramella Ranch →

10 MIN SW

South Meadows

$610K

10 min from Donner Springs

View South Meadows →

15 MIN NW

Old Southwest Reno

$550K

15 min from Donner Springs

View Old Southwest Reno →

12 MIN N

Reno (city page)

$575K

12 min via I-580

View Reno (city page) →

A–Z INDEX

Which Reno Neighborhoods Can You Explore A–Z?

21 neighborhoods and communities within and around Reno — from ArrowCreek and Caughlin Ranch in the west foothills to Donner Springs and South Meadows in the southeast corridor. Every linked entry opens a dedicated page with current NNRMLS listings, price ranges, and community details.

Sources & Methodology

Where Does This Donner Springs Data Come From?

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 NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data — supply the underlying data; follow any link to verify a figure or pull deeper detail than we publish here.

  1. NREG analysis of NNRMLS data — Median sold price, days on market, list-to-sold ratio, monthly MLS statistics for ZIPs 89511 and 89502. NREG market report
  2. Northern Nevada Regional MLS (NNRMLS) — Active listings, inventory counts, price-per-square-foot, and community-level data for Donner Springs and southeast Reno. nnrmls.com
  3. U.S. Census Bureau — Population, demographics, household income, age distribution, and education attainment (ACS) for ZIPs 89511/89502. data.census.gov
  4. U.S. Census Bureau — Population estimates and change since 2020 for Reno, Sparks and Washoe County (QuickFacts). census.gov/quickfacts
  5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Reno-Sparks MSA unemployment rate, employment by sector, and wage data. bls.gov/reno-sparks
  6. Washoe County Assessor — Property tax rates, assessed values, and parcel data for the Donner Springs and southeast Reno corridor. washoecounty.gov/assessor
  7. Washoe County School District — School assignments, enrollment, and district performance data for Donner Springs (ZIPs 89511/89502). washoeschools.net
  8. GreatSchools.org — K-12 school ratings, test scores, and student-teacher ratios for schools near Donner Springs including Galena HS and Hunsberger ES. greatschools.org
  9. Nevada Report Card — Official Nevada DOE school performance data cross-referenced with GreatSchools ratings. nevadareportcard.nv.gov
  10. FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) — Violent and property crime rates for the Reno metro and southeast Reno corridor, used in the safety section. fbi.gov/ucr
  11. Freddie Mac PMMS — Mortgage rate weekly survey used in the payment calculator and buy-vs-rent model. freddiemac.com/pmms
  12. Nevada Revised Statutes — Property tax cap (NRS 361.4723) and Nevada residency / DMV deadlines cited in relocation guide. leg.state.nv.us/nrs

Methodology: Listing counts, prices and days on market are NREG's analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data received through the Repliers feed; this page refreshes them about once a day, and each market figure carries its date or window. Census and BLS figures are the published vintage named beside them and change only when the agency releases new estimates. Confirm details for a specific home with its listing and the responsible agency.

Updated: October 2026 · Next update: November 15

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