UNR Faculty & Staff
- 5-10 min walk to campus
- No HOA on most homes
- Character homes $450K–$1.5M+
- Reno High School (8/10) for families

Nevada's #1 team for Old Northwest Reno real estate. Search craftsman bungalows, mid-century ranches, and custom hillside restorations near the University of Nevada Reno — from $450K single-family homes to $1.5M+ valley-view estates, all in one of Reno's most established neighborhoods.
MEDIAN LIST PRICE
$650K
RSAR / NNRMLS, ZIPs 89503/89509, June 2026
DAYS ON MARKET
30
RSAR / NNRMLS, June 2026
PROPERTY TYPE
Historic SFR / No HOA
NNRMLS listing data
TO AIRPORT
15 min
Reno-Tahoe Intl via US-395
Property research
Verify for your address
Confirm current school assignments, association documents, parcel taxes, and insurance with the applicable sources.
Last updated
June 19, 2026
Individual data periods may differ from the page update date.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Old Northwest Reno is Reno's most architecturally distinctive neighborhood — craftsman bungalows, mid-century ranches, and hillside restorations on tree-lined lots, median list price $650,000 per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, homes under contract in 30 days per Northern Nevada Regional MLS, and no HOA on most homes. Five takeaways follow.
Last updated June 2026 · Sources: RSAR, U.S. Census, NNRMLS
Old Northwest Reno carries roughly 95 active listings in ZIPs 89503 and 89509 per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and Northern Nevada Regional MLS — spanning $450K entry ranches to $1.5M+ custom hillside restorations with valley views. The eight newest listings appear below, refreshed daily, with every active property searchable in our live portal.
PRICE DISTRIBUTION
The Old Northwest Reno median list price sits at $650K per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS June 2026 NNRMLS data, with inventory clustering in the $500K–$900K character-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 neighborhoods.
Old Northwest Reno's roughly 95 active listings span five price bands, three 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, and what daily life looks like inside each Old Northwest Reno area and nearby neighborhood.
Updated daily · 95 active listings · MLS data
STAY AHEAD OF THE MARKET
Custom alerts by price, beds, baths, and neighborhood features — no spam, unsubscribe anytime. With Old Northwest Reno homes going under contract in a median 30 days per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS, buyers who see new listings within hours hold a real edge over buyers who check portals weekly.
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
Old Northwest Reno offers craftsman bungalows, mid-century ranches, and custom hillside restorations from $450K to $1.5M+ on mature tree-lined streets near UNR — no HOA on most homes. The City of Reno and UNR anchor steady demand, while Nevada's zero state income tax adds meaningful savings for California relocators.
Old Northwest Reno is known for its mature tree canopy, architectural variety, and UNR adjacency — the most distinctive residential streetscape in the Reno metro. Marymount Drive, Maple Street, and the Keystone corridor carry early-1900s through mid-century homes that buyers from California's established neighborhoods recognize as comparable character. The neighborhood is also the closest single-family alternative to downtown and UNR without a master-plan HOA.
Old Northwest Reno fits UNR faculty, staff, and research professionals who want to live walkably near campus; California relocators who want architectural character and no HOA at Nevada prices; families who value established neighborhoods with mature landscaping; investors seeking UNR-driven rental demand on character homes; and remote workers who want the feel of an East Coast neighborhood with Nevada's zero income tax and 15-minute airport access.
Daily life in Old Northwest Reno centers on the neighborhood's walkable corridors and UNR's campus: morning walks under the tree canopy, afternoon at the university library or a Midtown café, and evenings at one of downtown Reno's restaurants 15 minutes south. Lake Tahoe is 50 minutes away and the airport is 15 minutes — established neighborhood living without the suburban monotony.
Old Northwest Reno occupies the established residential corridors north of the Truckee River (ZIPs 89503 and 89509), bounded roughly by the UNR campus to the east, Keystone Avenue to the west, and extending north from downtown Reno. Elevation approximately 4,500 ft. About 5 minutes from downtown Reno, 5-10 minutes from UNR, and 15 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Quick Answer
Old Northwest Reno is an excellent fit for buyers who prioritize architectural character, mature tree canopy, UNR proximity, no HOA, and established neighborhood feel. It is less suited for buyers who want new construction, resort-level amenities, or the walkability of the downtown casino corridor. Nevada's zero state income tax adds an estimated $5,000–$30,000+ per year in savings for most relocating California households — and that compounding effect makes Old Northwest Reno's $450K–$1.5M+ range look very different from a California perspective.
Source: Nevada State Demographer
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, ZIPs 89503 and 89509 are predominantly owner-occupied, with a median household income near $70,000 and a median age of 38 — a mix of UNR faculty and staff, established Reno families, California relocators, and remote workers drawn by historic character at Nevada prices.
Home values in Old Northwest Reno have climbed steadily as Bay Area and Sacramento households relocated and as the neighborhood's architectural character became increasingly valued against the monotony of master-planned communities. The owner-majority profile (roughly 55% owners) reflects a more stable, longer-tenure demographic than the downtown rental core — buyers here tend to stay.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS estimates & Nevada State Demographer · Updated
POPULATION & GROWTH
Old Northwest Reno has grown steadily as the City of Reno's urban reinvestment, UNR expansion, and California in-migration have raised demand for character homes near the university. The neighborhood's finite supply of early-1900s to mid-century homes creates natural price support as demand increases but new construction cannot replicate the existing stock.
Growth in Old Northwest Reno tracks UNR enrollment expansion, City of Reno reinvestment in the near-university corridor, and California net in-migration. The neighborhood's irreplaceable housing stock — craftsman bungalows and colonial revivals that cannot be mass-produced — creates supply constraints that support long-term price appreciation even in softer market cycles.
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 ZIPs 89503 and 89509 data, updated monthly. Old Northwest Reno has held near $650K year-over-year with roughly 80–110 active listings — the three charts below show the past twelve months.
Median List Price (ZIPs 89503/89509)
+2.4% YoY (May 2025 → May 2026)
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Days on Market
24 → 30 days YoY (seasonal softening winter)
vs the prior year
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Active Listings
~95 monthly average, seasonal winter dip
vs the prior year
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 MOVING IN 30 DAYS
Market Competitiveness
Old Northwest Reno is moderately competitive — well-priced mid-century ranches and restored craftsmans in the $500K–$800K range go under contract in roughly two to four weeks per NNRMLS data. Custom hillside restorations above $1M may take six to ten weeks as the pool of qualified buyers narrows. The no-HOA character-home inventory moves faster than comparable master-plan communities.
Old Northwest Reno spans $450K mid-century ranches to $1.5M+ custom hillside restorations — the most architecturally distinctive address in the Reno metro. Six buyer profiles below match lifestyles to specific Old Northwest Reno options, followed by the honest pros and trade-offs our team walks every client through before they commit.
Ready to explore homes in Old Northwest Reno? Our team knows every street, architectural style, and inspection consideration in the neighborhood.
Start Your Old Northwest Reno SearchNeighborhood Comparison
A like-for-like comparison of the four most-searched urban Reno neighborhoods — 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 $420K in downtown to $650K in Old Northwest Reno.
| Submarket | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active Listings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Northwest Reno | $650,000 | ~$325 | 30 | 95 | Character · UNR-Adjacent · No HOA |
| Midtown Reno | $450,000 | ~$320 | 33 | 65 | Restaurants · Arts · Walkable |
| West University | $480,000 | ~$330 | 32 | 30 | Historic · UNR-Adjacent · Walkable |
| Downtown Reno | $420,000 | ~$310 | 35 | 100 | Condos · Walkability · Investment |
| Northwest Reno | $530,000 | ~$295 | 34 | 33 | Established · No HOA |
Source: Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS data, June 2026. Median prices based on active listings; days on market from closed sales.
Neighborhood Deep Dive
Submarket 1
Reno's most architecturally distinctive established neighborhood — craftsman bungalows, mid-century ranches, and hillside restorations near UNR. No HOA on most homes, $450K–$1.5M+ price range, and a finite supply of irreplaceable architecture that supports long-term appreciation.
Browse Old Northwest Reno homes →Submarket 2
Reno's restaurant and arts hub — a slightly more walkable, mixed-use feel with a median near $450K and a strong mix of condos, lofts, and single-family homes.
Browse Midtown Reno homes →Submarket 3
Immediately adjacent to UNR — smaller lots and character homes within walking distance of campus, with a median near $480K and a strong mix of owner-occupants and university-affiliated residents.
Browse West University homes →Submarket 4
Reno's urban core along the Truckee Riverwalk — Walk Score 90+, condos and lofts from $300K to $800K+, strong rental demand from UNR and downtown employers, and 10 minutes to the airport. HOA fees $200–$600/month.
Browse Downtown Reno homes →Submarket 5
The broader Northwest Reno corridor outside master plans — older established neighborhoods, no HOA, and value pricing with the same I-80 and airport access.
Browse Northwest Reno homes →Submarket 6
The most sought-after address within Old Northwest Reno — Marymount Drive and Maple Street carry the best-preserved craftsman bungalows and colonial revival homes in the neighborhood, with mature tree canopy and lot sizes ranging from 6,000 to 12,000+ square feet. Prices range from $550K for move-in-ready ranches to $1.1M+ for fully restored early-1900s examples. The highest-demand sub-corridor in the character-home market.
Browse The Marymount / Maple Street Corridor homes →Old Northwest Reno occupies the established residential corridors north of the Truckee River (ZIPs 89503 and 89509), bounded by the UNR campus to the east and Keystone Avenue to the west, extending north from downtown Reno. Downtown Reno is 10 minutes south, UNR campus is 5-10 minutes east, and Reno-Tahoe International Airport is 15 minutes south via US-395.
STILL DECIDING?
BY ZIP CODE
ZIPs 89503 and 89509 cover Old Northwest Reno and the adjacent central 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.
| ZIP | Primary Area | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active | YoY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89503 | Old Northwest Reno · West University | $480K | ~$325 | 30 | 95 | +2.4% |
| 89509 | Midtown · Central · Lakeridge | $450K | ~$315 | 33 | 174 | +1.8% |
| 89501 | Downtown Reno · Riverwalk District | $400K | ~$305 | 36 | 68 | +2.1% |
| 89512 | North Reno · University Area | $390K | ~$280 | 34 | 88 | +1.2% |
| 89519 | Old Southwest · Caughlin Ranch | $725K | ~$340 | 36 | 142 | +3.1% |
| 89523 | Somersett · Northwest Reno | $620K | ~$315 | 32 | 210 | +1.9% |
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.
Architecture & Character
Old Northwest Reno's residential inventory is concentrated in architecturally distinct single-family homes rather than builder-track subdivisions. Each style period has its own character, maintenance profile, and buyer demographic — knowing which style fits your priorities shortens the search significantly.
Early 1900s–1930s
Wide front porches, low-pitched roofs, built-in cabinetry; most sought-after style
1920s–1940s
Formal symmetry, brick exteriors, large lots; high buyer demand
1930s–1950s
Steeply pitched roofs, mixed materials, character streetscape
1950s–1970s
Open floor plans, single-story, easier maintenance; value entry point
Various · Custom rebuilt
Valley and city views; gut-renovated with modern systems
Outdoor Recreation
Old Northwest Reno's outdoor life spans neighborhood walks under mature tree canopy to Lake Tahoe in 50 minutes. Rancho San Rafael Park is 10 minutes north, the Truckee Riverwalk 10 minutes south, and the City of Reno maintains the UNR arboretum and neighborhood parks within 15 minutes of any address here.
10 MIN
Reno's flagship regional park — home to the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum, and miles of walking trails. The closest major regional park to Old Northwest Reno and a regular destination for neighborhood residents.
10 MIN
The Truckee River waterfront path anchored by Wingfield Park — a mile-plus route lined with restaurants, galleries, and event venues that Old Northwest Reno residents access via a short drive or extended walk south through the UNR corridor.
WALK / 5 MIN
The University of Nevada, Reno campus — a park-like setting with an arboretum, academic events, arts performances, and recreational facilities accessible to community members. One of the best walkable amenities in the Reno metro.
10 MIN
Reno's oldest city park along the Truckee River — rose gardens, a large picnic area, and riverside walking paths. A beloved local destination within easy reach of Old Northwest Reno.
30 MIN
Forested Sierra trails and a visitor center on the Mt. Rose Highway — the closest wilderness trailhead to Reno, a 30-minute drive from Old Northwest Reno.
50 MIN
North America's largest alpine lake — public beaches at Sand Harbor and Kings Beach, marinas, and ski resorts within one drive from Old Northwest Reno via US-395 south to NV-431.
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 — a winter weekend staple for Old Northwest Reno residents.
20 MIN
Trails, an amphitheater, and equestrian facilities at the edge of the south Reno neighborhoods — a quick drive from Old Northwest Reno via US-395 south.
The Old Northwest Reno Lifestyle
A Saturday in Old Northwest Reno runs from the neighborhood tree canopy to the Sierra: morning walk to the UNR arboretum per the City of Reno, afternoon coffee in Midtown, evening at a Reno High School arts performance or downtown restaurant — and Lake Tahoe 50 minutes away for Sunday. Historic neighborhood character without the Bay Area price tag.
THIS WEEKEND'S OPEN HOUSES
Old Northwest Reno single-family homes typically hold weekend open houses — unlike downtown condos that show by appointment. Most sellers in the $500K–$900K craftsman and mid-century range hold Saturday or Sunday opens; custom restorations above $900K often show by private appointment. Set alerts for your price range or browse all active listings 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
Old Northwest Reno residents sit adjacent to the largest employment anchors in Northern Nevada — UNR, Renown Health, and government. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSA unemployment runs near historic lows, driven by the university and healthcare sectors locally and Tesla, Switch, and Panasonic at the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center 35 min via I-80.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nevada State Demographer. Last updated June 2026.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMPARISON
Choosing between urban Reno neighborhoods? This table compares Old Northwest Reno (median $650K, no HOA, UNR-adjacent), Midtown Reno ($450K, restaurant and arts hub), West University ($480K, smaller lots on UNR edge), and Downtown Reno ($420K, Walk Score 90+ condos). Metrics are from RSAR, the U.S. Census, and BLS Reno-Sparks MSA.
| Metric | Old Northwest Reno | Midtown Reno | West University | Downtown Reno |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median List Price | $650K | $450K | $480K | $420K |
| Price / Sq Ft | ~$325 | ~$320 | ~$330 | ~$310 |
| Days on Market | 30 | 33 | 32 | 35 |
| HOA / Month | None (most homes) | $0–$350 | $0–$250 | $200–$600 (condo) |
| Walk Score | 70+ (UNR corridors) | 85+ | 80+ | 90+ |
| Dominant Type | Historic SFR | Mixed / Restaurant | Historic SFR | Condos / High-Rise |
| Best For | Character · UNR · No HOA | Dining · Arts · Mixed | UNR · Historic · Quiet | Walkability · Investment |
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 Old Northwest Reno, the airport is 15 minutes via US-395, UNR campus is 5-10 minutes on foot, and downtown Reno is 10 minutes south. Mean commutes in ZIPs 89503/89509 run near 16 minutes per U.S. Census ACS — well below Bay Area averages. Walking and cycling to UNR and Midtown are practical from most blocks.
Drive times based on average non-rush-hour conditions. Sources: Google Maps traffic data, RTC Washoe.
Quick Answer
Most Old Northwest Reno single-family purchases close in 30 to 45 days. Cash offers can close in 7–14 days. Financed purchases run 30–45 days from accepted offer — there is no building-level lender approval required (unlike downtown condos), so the process is driven by standard underwriting timelines. On older homes, inspection negotiations can extend the timeline by 7-14 days if repair credits or remediation are needed. The state of Nevada closes through escrow companies, not attorneys.
Quick Answer
Conventional loans generally want 620+; FHA allows 580+ with 3.5% down. VA financing is available for qualifying veterans with no minimum score (though most lenders prefer 620+). On a $650K home at 10% down, most buyers use conventional financing. Old Northwest Reno single-family homes do not require building-level lender approval — a significant advantage over downtown condo purchases where FHA eligibility depends on the specific building's certification status.
Old Northwest Reno FAQ — 18 Answers
The median list price in Old Northwest Reno runs about $650,000 per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS data for ZIPs 89503 and 89509, at roughly $325 per square foot. Entry-level mid-century ranch homes begin near $450K, restored craftsman and colonial revival homes cluster between $650K and $900K, and custom hillside restorations with valley views reach $1.5M and above.
Old Northwest Reno is Reno's most distinctive established neighborhood: mature tree canopy along Marymount, Maple, and Keystone corridors, early-1900s through mid-century architecture, mostly no HOA, and walkable access to both UNR and downtown. It combines the character of an older East Coast neighborhood with Nevada's zero income tax and a price point well below coastal equivalents.
Old Northwest Reno is single-family dominant: craftsman bungalows, colonial revival homes, brick Tudor-styles, and custom hillside restorations with city and valley views. Some multi-unit properties and duplexes exist near the UNR boundary. Most lots are larger than newer Reno master plans, with established landscaping and detached garages. Condos are rare — this is a neighborhood of houses, not high-rises.
Most Old Northwest Reno homes have no HOA — one of the neighborhood's biggest draws for buyers who want character and mature landscaping without monthly dues and CC&R restrictions. A small number of newer infill developments within the neighborhood boundaries carry nominal HOA fees, but the dominant stock of early-1900s through 1970s single-family homes operates without an association.
Old Northwest Reno falls within the Washoe County School District. Billinghurst Middle School is the assigned middle school (7/10 GreatSchools); Reno High School (8/10) is the assigned secondary. For elementary, Hunsberger and Caughlin Ranch ES serve the western edges; Wooster HS is a boundary-adjacent option. Davidson Academy (gifted, 10/10) on the UNR campus is a nearby charter alternative.
Old Northwest Reno homes typically sell in about 30 days from list to accepted offer per NNRMLS data for ZIPs 89503 and 89509. Well-priced mid-century ranches and restored craftsmans in the $500K–$750K range often go pending within two to three weeks. Custom hillside restorations above $1M may take six to ten weeks as the pool of qualified buyers narrows.
Washoe County's effective property tax rate runs 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 $650K Old Northwest Reno home, the annual tax bill typically runs $3,250–$4,550 per the Washoe County Assessor — and Nevada's zero state income tax means total housing cost stays well below California at a comparable price point.
Nevada has zero personal state income tax; California's top marginal rate is 13.3% per the Franchise Tax Board. A household earning $250,000 relocating from the Bay Area to Old Northwest Reno saves roughly $20,000 per year in state income tax alone — more than the typical HOA in a master-planned community, for zero cost. That savings compounds significantly over a five- or ten-year hold.
Old Northwest Reno is highly walkable by Reno standards — tree-lined streets connect to UNR's campus (5–10 minutes on foot from most blocks), Reno's Riviera Hotel district, and downtown within a 15-minute walk. The neighborhood's flat to gently sloping terrain along Keystone and Maple corridors makes walking and cycling practical for daily errands, UNR commuting, and café-hopping in the adjacent Midtown district.
Marymount Drive, Maple Street, and Keystone Avenue are the most sought-after addresses — wide lots, mature tree canopy, and the best-preserved early-1900s architecture. The hillside blocks above Ridge Street offer valley and city views from custom restorations. Buyers looking for value while staying in the neighborhood often target the mid-century ranch blocks between Ralston and Lander streets.
Old Northwest Reno has a better safety profile than the downtown casino corridor and most of the urban Reno core. According to City of Reno Police data, property crime in the residential blocks is near the Washoe County average. UNR proximity means occasional student-related incidents near campus edges, but the core residential streets — Marymount, Maple, and the hillside blocks — are quiet and well-established.
Old Northwest Reno carries strong rental demand driven by UNR faculty, staff, and graduate students seeking character homes near campus. Three- and four-bedroom restored homes typically rent for $2,200–$3,500/month depending on condition and proximity to UNR. Investors should note there is no HOA rental-cap restriction on most homes — unlike downtown condo buildings — making the neighborhood more landlord-friendly from a structural standpoint.
Rancho San Rafael Park — a 595-acre regional park with trails, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum, and event grounds — is about 10 minutes north. The Truckee Riverwalk and Wingfield Park are 10 minutes south via the UNR corridor. Lake Tahoe is 50 minutes via US-395 south to NV-431. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is 55 minutes — the same Sierra access most Reno neighborhoods offer.
Old Northwest is UNR-adjacent, north of the river — walkable to campus, slightly younger demographic, with rental demand from university housing needs. Old Southwest Reno sits south of downtown, quieter, higher median near $550K, and less student-influenced. Both have no HOA and mature tree canopy; the choice depends on whether UNR proximity is an asset or a trade-off for the buyer.
Budget for deferred maintenance on older homes — electrical panels, plumbing, and roofing on early-1900s homes may need updating. Have the foundation and drainage evaluated if considering hillside restorations. Verify any UNR or city overlay zoning restrictions before buying near campus boundaries. And confirm parking — some older lots have narrow driveways or shared alley access inherited from the original plat.
Most Old Northwest Reno buyers put down 10%–20%. Conventional loans start at 3% down for qualified first-time buyers with 620+ credit. FHA allows 3.5% down with 580+ — and unlike downtown condos, single-family homes here are generally FHA-eligible without building-level lender approval. At the $650K median, 10% down is $65,000 and 20% is $130,000. Call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 to verify current financing options for the specific home you are considering.
It depends on lifestyle priorities. Old Northwest Reno has larger lots, more architectural character, no HOA on most homes, and UNR walking access — ideal for families, faculty, and buyers who want space and trees. Midtown Reno has a stronger restaurant and arts scene with a median near $450K. Old Northwest Reno median runs about $650K; buyers pay more for land, character, and the mature neighborhood feel. Both are about 10 minutes apart.
Most Old Northwest Reno single-family purchases close in 30–45 days for financed buyers; cash offers in 7–14 days. On pre-1960 homes, budget extra time for inspection negotiations — foundation, electrical, and plumbing issues often require repair credits. Nevada closes through escrow companies, not attorneys, so the process is streamlined once conditions clear.
Updated June 2026
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Beyond the FAQ above, these are the queries Old Northwest Reno 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, safety data from City of Reno Police, and property tax figures from the Washoe County Assessor.
Marymount Drive and Maple Street are consistently the most sought-after addresses in Old Northwest Reno — wide lots, mature tree canopy, and the best-preserved craftsman and colonial revival homes. The hillside blocks above Ridge Street offer valley and city views from $900K custom restorations. Buyers seeking value while staying in the neighborhood often target the mid-century ranch blocks between Ralston and Lander streets at $450K–$650K.
Old Northwest Reno has strong investment fundamentals: UNR rental demand from 21,000+ students and faculty, finite supply of irreplaceable architecture, no HOA rental restrictions, and steady 2-3% annual appreciation per RSAR data. Three- and four-bedroom homes rent for $2,200–$3,500/month. The main risk is deferred maintenance on older homes — budget for a thorough inspection and potential systems upgrades before projecting returns.
Old Northwest Reno sits immediately adjacent to and northwest of the University of Nevada, Reno campus — most core blocks are a 5-10 minute walk to UNR buildings. The neighborhood is the closest single-family residential area to UNR, which is why it carries the strongest university-driven rental demand of any character-home neighborhood in the metro.
No — most Old Northwest Reno homes have no HOA, no monthly dues, and no CC&R restrictions. The neighborhood's dominant early-1900s through 1970s single-family stock predates Reno's master-plan HOA era. A small number of newer infill developments within the neighborhood boundaries carry nominal dues. Verify HOA status on any specific listing before making an offer.
Old Northwest Reno is known for its mature tree canopy, architectural variety, and UNR adjacency — the most distinctive residential streetscape in the Reno metro. Craftsman bungalows, colonial revivals, and mid-century ranches on Marymount Drive, Maple Street, and the Keystone corridor give the neighborhood a character that newer Reno master plans cannot replicate.
Old Northwest Reno median runs about $650K versus Somersett's $620K — similar overall but very different products. Old Northwest Reno delivers character architecture, no HOA, and UNR walking distance. Somersett offers a master-plan community with golf, trails, a community center, and HOA fees of $165+/month. Both are near the Reno metro median; the choice is between character vs. amenities and HOA-free vs. managed.
Old Northwest Reno homes span roughly 1905–1975, with the most sought-after craftsman and colonial revival examples dating from 1910–1940. Mid-century ranches from the 1950s and 1960s make up the largest volume of current inventory. Custom hillside restorations above Ridge Street often involve early-1900s structures with modern gut renovations — verifying original construction date and renovation scope is critical in inspections.
Old Northwest Reno is walkable to UNR by Reno standards, but not to the restaurant concentration that Midtown or Downtown Reno offer. The closest restaurant and café cluster is the UNR campus district (5-10 min walk) and Midtown Reno (12-15 min drive or 25-35 min walk). For daily dining on foot, Old Northwest Reno is a step down from Midtown but far superior to suburban master-plan communities 20+ minutes from urban Reno.
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NEARBY COMMUNITIES
Compare Old Northwest Reno with neighboring Reno neighborhoods and nearby Northern Nevada options. Each card pairs the commute time 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 Damonte Ranch and South Meadows in the south corridor. Every linked entry opens a dedicated page with current NNRMLS listings, price ranges, and community details.
KEEP LEARNING
These guides extend the research most Old Northwest Reno buyers do next — comparing the West University historic district, exploring Midtown Reno, and understanding the full Reno market — each written from the same NNRMLS data and primary sources used throughout this page.
GUIDE
Immediately adjacent to UNR — smaller lots, historic homes, and walking-distance campus access at a median near $480K.
Read →GUIDE
Reno's restaurant and arts hub — walkable, mixed-use, and 12 minutes from Old Northwest Reno at a lower median near $450K.
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).