Established Families
- Reno High School (8/10) assigned
- Large lots with mature trees
- No HOA — freedom to renovate and landscape
- Quiet residential streets near Midtown

Nevada's #1 team for Old Southwest Reno real estate. Search historic Tudor, Craftsman, and brick homes for sale in Reno's most prestigious in-town neighborhood — from $500K bungalows to $1.5M+ Newlands Heights estates, all within walking distance of Midtown and the Truckee River.
MEDIAN LIST PRICE
$622K
LVR / GLVAR via Repliers, as of September 14, 2026
DAYS ON MARKET
49
LVR / GLVAR via Repliers, as of September 14, 2026
PROPERTY TYPE
Historic SFR / No HOA
NNRMLS listing data
TO MIDTOWN RENO
5–10 min
Via S Virginia St
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 Southwest Reno is Reno's most architecturally significant historic neighborhood — tree-lined streets, large mature lots, and Tudor/Craftsman homes from the 1920s–1950s with a median list price near $621,950 per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and homes going under contract in about 30 days per Northern Nevada Regional MLS.
Last updated September 2026 · Sources: RSAR, U.S. Census, NNRMLS
Old Southwest Reno carries roughly 45 active single-family listings across ZIPs 89509 and 89501 as of September 2026 according to Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS and NNRMLS data, spanning $500K bungalows to $1.5M+ Newlands Heights estates. The eight newest appear below, with every active listing searchable in our live portal.
PRICE DISTRIBUTION
The Old Southwest Reno median list price sits at $622K per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS September 2026 NNRMLS data, with inventory clustering in the $600K–$1M historic 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 historic homes.
Old Southwest Reno's roughly 45 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 Southwest and adjacent historic Reno neighborhood.
Updated daily · 224 active listings · MLS data
STAY AHEAD OF THE MARKET
Custom alerts by price, beds, baths, and architectural style — delivered the moment a match lists. With Old Southwest 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 — inventory is thin and the best Tudors go fast.
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 Southwest Reno offers what no Reno master plan can replicate — tree-canopied streets, large mature lots, and historic homes from the 1920s–1950s steps from Midtown dining and the Truckee Riverwalk. The City of Reno maintains public streets throughout the district, and most homes carry no HOA — drawing California buyers who want walkable in-town character.
Old Southwest Reno is known for Reno's most intact collection of early-twentieth-century residential architecture — Tudor revivals, Craftsman bungalows, brick colonials, and ranch-style mid-century homes on large, established lots with mature tree canopy. The Newlands Manor and Newlands Heights sub-districts carry some of the neighborhood's most historically significant properties, and California Avenue and Plumb Lane are the two primary east-west corridors that define the district's character.
Old Southwest Reno fits established families who want a quiet, walkable in-town neighborhood with architectural character; California relocators who want prestige-tier historic homes without Bay Area pricing; professionals at Renown Health, UNR, and the downtown civic sector; and buyers who specifically want no HOA restrictions on how they use their property. Buyers drawn to suburban master-plan amenities (golf, clubhouse, community pool) should look at Somersett or Caughlin Ranch instead.
Daily life in Old Southwest Reno is walkable and neighborhood-paced: morning coffee at a Midtown café 5–10 minutes on foot, afternoon errands along Virginia Street, evenings at Midtown's restaurant row or on the Truckee Riverwalk. Lake Tahoe is 50 minutes away, and the airport is 20 minutes — an accessible, established lifestyle without the subdivision sameness of master-plan Reno.
Old Southwest Reno occupies the area just south of downtown Reno and the Truckee River (ZIP 89509, with some 89501 overlap), bounded roughly by the Truckee River to the north, Lakeside Drive to the west, Plumb Lane to the south, and Virginia Street to the east. Elevation approximately 4,400 ft. About 5 minutes from Midtown Reno, 10–15 minutes from downtown, and 20 minutes from the airport.
Quick Answer
Old Southwest Reno is an excellent fit for buyers who prioritize historic architectural character, mature lots, no HOA, and walkability to Midtown Reno — and an honest mismatch for buyers who need a community pool, golf course, or master-plan amenity package. The tree-lined streets, Reno High School (8/10), 20-minute airport access, and $500K–$1.5M+ price range are genuinely compelling. Nevada's zero state income tax adds an estimated $10,000–$40,000+ per year in savings for most relocating California households.
Source: Nevada State Demographer
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, ZIP 89509 — the primary Old Southwest Reno ZIP — holds a predominantly owner-occupied population with a median household income near $78,000, above the Washoe County average, attracting professionals, UNR and Renown Health faculty, and California relocators seeking historic character and Nevada tax advantages.
Home values in Old Southwest Reno have climbed steadily as Bay Area and Sacramento households relocated seeking historic-quality homes at Nevada prices. The owner-majority profile (roughly 62% owner-occupied in 89509) creates scarcity in the resale market — inventory consistently runs thin relative to demand, which supports prices and keeps days on market near 30 for well-priced, move-in-ready homes.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS estimates & Nevada State Demographer · Updated
POPULATION & GROWTH
Old Southwest Reno has grown steadily as California in-migration and UNR and Renown Health expansion have raised demand for in-town character homes. The scarcity of period homes on large lots — land that cannot be replicated by new construction — has supported values through market cycles and attracted buyers who prioritize architecture over amenity packages.
Growth in Old Southwest Reno tracks California net in-migration, UNR enrollment and research expansion, and Renown Health employment growth. The scarcity of large-lot historic homes has kept the neighborhood competitive — when a restored Tudor or Craftsman hits the market at a fair price, it typically goes pending within three to four weeks.
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 89509 data, updated monthly. Old Southwest Reno has held near $725K year-over-year with roughly 40–55 active listings — the three charts below show the past twelve months.
Median List Price (ZIP 89509)
+2.8% YoY (May 2025 → May 2026)
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Days on Market
24 → 30 days YoY (seasonal softening winter)
vs September 2025
Source: Las Vegas REALTORS
Active Listings
~45 monthly average, seasonal winter dip to ~35
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.
HISTORIC HOMES MOVING FAST
Market Competitiveness
Old Southwest Reno is moderately competitive to competitive — well-priced historic homes in the $600K–$900K range go under contract in three to four weeks per NNRMLS data. Larger estates above $1M take six to twelve weeks as the qualified buyer pool narrows. Inventory stays thin year-round, keeping prices firm.
Old Southwest Reno spans $500K entry bungalows to $1.5M+ Newlands Heights estates — Reno's most architecturally distinguished in-town neighborhood. Six buyer profiles below match lifestyles to specific Old Southwest sub-districts, followed by the honest pros and trade-offs our team walks every client through before they commit.
Ready to explore homes in Old Southwest Reno? Our team knows every sub-district, historic home inspection consideration, and financing option available in the Old Southwest corridor.
Start Your Old Southwest 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 $725K in Old Southwest Reno.
| Submarket | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active Listings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Southwest Reno | $725,000 | ~$340 | 30 | 45 | Historic · No HOA · Schools |
| Midtown Reno | $450,000 | ~$320 | 33 | 65 | Restaurants · Arts · Mixed-Use |
| West University | $480,000 | ~$330 | 32 | 30 | Historic · UNR Adjacent · Walkable |
| Downtown Reno | $420,000 | ~$310 | 35 | 100 | Walkability · Condos · Investment |
| Caughlin Ranch | $650,000 | ~$320 | 32 | 55 | Established · Low HOA · Schools |
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 prestigious historic in-town neighborhood — tree-lined streets, large mature lots, Tudors and Craftsman homes from the early 1900s, Reno High School (8/10) assigned, no HOA on most homes, and walkable to Midtown dining.
Browse Old Southwest Reno homes →Submarket 2
Reno's restaurant and arts hub — a walkable, mixed-use neighborhood with condos, lofts, and smaller SFR at a median near $450K, 5 minutes south of Old Southwest Reno.
Browse Midtown Reno homes →Submarket 3
An established historic neighborhood immediately adjacent to UNR — character homes, walkable to campus and Midtown, 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.
Browse Downtown Reno homes →Submarket 5
An established southwest Reno neighborhood with mature landscaping, varied HOA levels ($0–$150/month), and strong school assignments including Hunter Lake ES and Reno HS.
Browse Caughlin Ranch homes →Submarket 6
The most historically significant and architecturally prestigious sub-district of Old Southwest Reno — large estate homes on half-acre parcels, primarily Tudors and brick colonials from the 1930s–1950s, with mature tree canopy that shades every block. Properties range from $900K to $1.5M+ with no HOA, Reno High School assigned, and a location that puts Midtown and the Riverwalk within biking distance.
Browse Newlands Heights — The Prestige Tier homes →Old Southwest Reno occupies the area south of downtown and the Truckee River (ZIP 89509), bounded by the river to the north, Lakeside Drive west, Plumb Lane south, and S Virginia Street east. Midtown Reno is 5–10 minutes north, and Reno-Tahoe International Airport is 20 minutes south via I-580.
STILL DECIDING?
BY ZIP CODE
ZIP 89509 covers Old Southwest Reno, Midtown, and the central Reno corridor. The table below puts 89509 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89509 | Old Southwest · Midtown · Central Reno | $725K | ~$340 | 30 | 174 | +2.8% |
| 89501 | Downtown Reno · Riverwalk District | $400K | ~$305 | 36 | 68 | +2.1% |
| 89503 | West University · Old Northwest | $480K | ~$325 | 32 | 95 | +2.3% |
| 89519 | Old Southwest Hills · Caughlin Ranch | $725K | ~$340 | 36 | 142 | +3.1% |
| 89523 | Somersett · Northwest Reno | $620K | ~$315 | 32 | 210 | +1.9% |
| 89512 | North Reno · University Area | $390K | ~$280 | 34 | 88 | +1.2% |
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.
Sub-Districts & Neighborhoods
Old Southwest Reno is not a single master plan but a collection of adjacent historic sub-districts, each with its own character, price point, and architectural era. Understanding the sub-districts helps buyers target the right streets — and the right price range — before touring. Most properties in all sub-districts carry no HOA.
Historic Estate · Large Lots
Old Southwest's most prestigious address; largest historic estates
Historic Established · Mid-Scale
Established brick and Tudor homes on mature lots; most sought-after streets
In-Town · Walkable
Craftsman and early bungalows; highest walkability to Midtown
Transitional · Value Entry
Entry to the district; older ranch and mid-century homes; mixed renovation status
Western Edge · Quiet
Quieter western edge; established homes with quick Caughlin Ranch access
Outdoor Recreation
Old Southwest Reno's outdoor life balances walkable neighborhood parks with quick access to the Truckee Riverwalk and the broader Sierra Nevada recreation corridor. Lake Tahoe and Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe are roughly 50 minutes away, and the City of Reno maintains parks and tree corridors throughout the district, with Galena Creek accessible in 30 minutes.
10 MIN
Reno's most active urban outdoor amenity — a mile-plus waterfront path lined with restaurants, galleries, and event venues, 10 minutes by bike from Old Southwest Reno.
10 MIN
A river island park hosting the Reno River Festival, concerts, and community events — 10 minutes by bike or 15 by foot from Old Southwest Reno.
5 MIN
Reno's most beloved neighborhood park — a mature riverside park with a rose garden, playground, picnic areas, and the Truckee River trail just 5 minutes from Old Southwest.
15 MIN
Reno's flagship regional park — home to the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum, and miles of walking trails north of the university.
30 MIN
Forested Sierra trails and a visitor center on the Mt. Rose Highway — the closest wilderness trailhead to Reno and a 30-minute drive from Old Southwest.
50 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.
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.
20 MIN
Trails, an amphitheater, and equestrian facilities at the edge of south Reno neighborhoods — a quick drive from Old Southwest via S Virginia St and I-580.
The Old Southwest Reno Lifestyle
A Saturday in Old Southwest Reno runs from the neighborhood streets to the mountains: morning walk through tree-lined blocks per the City of Reno, bike ride to Midtown for brunch and Farmers Market, afternoon at Idlewild Park or the Riverwalk, evening at a Midtown restaurant — and Lake Tahoe 50 minutes away for Sunday.
THIS WEEKEND'S OPEN HOUSES
Old Southwest Reno single-family homes regularly hold weekend open houses — Saturday and Sunday afternoon touring is the norm for well-priced listings in the $600K–$900K range. Newlands Manor and Newlands Heights estate homes typically show by appointment. Set up instant alerts for your target sub-district and price range, or browse every active 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
Old Southwest Reno residents sit minutes from Reno's largest employers — Renown Health, University of Nevada Reno, and City of Reno government. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, MSA unemployment runs near historic lows, driven by healthcare, education, and the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (Tesla, Switch, Panasonic) about 40 minutes east 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 Southwest Reno (median $725K, no HOA, Reno HS 8/10), Midtown Reno ($450K, restaurant and arts hub), West University ($480K, UNR-adjacent historic), and Downtown Reno ($420K, Walk Score 90+, condos). Metrics are from RSAR, the U.S. Census, and BLS Reno-Sparks MSA.
| Metric | Old Southwest Reno | Midtown Reno | West University | Downtown Reno |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median List Price | $725K | $450K | $480K | $420K |
| Price / Sq Ft | ~$340 | ~$320 | ~$330 | ~$310 |
| Days on Market | 30 | 33 | 32 | 35 |
| HOA / Month | None (most) | $0–$350 | $0–$250 | $200–$600 (condo) |
| Walk Score | 70+ | 85+ | 80+ | 90+ |
| Dominant Type | Historic SFR | Mixed / Restaurant | Historic SFR | Condos / High-Rise |
| Best For | Historic · No HOA · Family | Dining · Arts · Mixed | Historic · UNR · 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 Southwest Reno, the airport is 20 minutes via I-580, UNR and Renown Health are 10 minutes, and Midtown is 5–10 minutes by bike. Mean commutes in ZIP 89509 run near 20 minutes per U.S. Census ACS data — well below the Bay Area averages most relocators leave behind.
Drive times based on average non-rush-hour conditions. Sources: Google Maps traffic data, RTC Washoe.
Quick Answer
Conventional loans generally require 620+ for the best rates; FHA allows 580+ with 3.5% down. Jumbo financing — required above $766K for Newlands Heights estates — typically needs 700+ credit, 20% down, and six months' reserves. Most Old Southwest Reno homes fall at conventional limits; the jumbo tier covers the upper third of the market.
Quick Answer
Old Southwest Reno historic homes have appreciated roughly 2.8% per year on average since 2020 per NNRMLS data, with the scarcity of large-lot historic inventory providing a floor that new construction cannot undercut. Single-family rental yields run 4–5% gross depending on purchase price and condition. The no-HOA profile eliminates a significant monthly cost drag versus master-plan alternatives, improving net yield. For 5+ year holds, Old Southwest has consistently outperformed suburban Reno master plans on appreciation per square foot.
Old Southwest Reno FAQ — 18 Answers
The median asking price for an Old Southwest Reno home is about $621,950 per Reno/Sparks Association of REALTORS data for ZIPs 89509 and 89501. Entry-level bungalows and updated Craftsman homes start near $500K; mid-range Tudors and brick colonials on larger lots cluster around $700K–$900K; larger restored historic estates and Newlands Heights properties regularly reach $1.2M–$1.5M+.
Old Southwest Reno is Reno's only genuinely historic in-town district with tree-canopied streets, large mature lots, and homes from the 1920s–1950s. Most properties carry no HOA. The walkability to Midtown Reno's restaurant corridor, the Truckee Riverwalk, and UNR is unmatched outside downtown — yet Old Southwest is quieter, more residential, and commands higher prices reflecting scarcity of this land type in Reno.
Old Southwest Reno is single-family dominant: restored Tudor revivals, brick colonials, Craftsman bungalows, and ranch-style mid-century homes on mature lots with mature trees and established landscaping. Lot sizes typically run 7,000–15,000+ sq ft. Some larger historic estates in Newlands Heights and Newlands Manor reach half-acre parcels. Condos and townhomes are rare here — this is an owner-occupied single-family neighborhood.
Old Southwest Reno crime rates run near the Reno metro average — a meaningful improvement over downtown. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data and City of Reno Police reports, the residential streets in Old Southwest are meaningfully quieter than the casino corridor. The walkable proximity to Midtown's restaurant blocks means some foot traffic, but most buyers find the safety profile comfortable for families.
Old Southwest Reno falls within the Washoe County School District. Reno High School (8/10 GreatSchools) is the primary assigned high school — one of the strongest public high schools in Northern Nevada. Orvis Ring Elementary and Hunter Lake Elementary serve the elementary corridor; Swope Middle School handles the middle grades. Davidson Academy (gifted) and Coral Academy charter are options for qualifying students.
Old Southwest Reno sits about 10–15 minutes from downtown Reno via S Virginia St and US-395. Reno-Tahoe International Airport is about 20 minutes south via I-580. Midtown Reno restaurants and the Truckee Riverwalk are 5–10 minutes by car or an easy bike ride along Virginia Street, making Old Southwest one of the most accessible in-town neighborhoods without downtown pricing.
Old Southwest Reno homes typically sell in about 49 days from list to accepted offer per NNRMLS data for ZIP 89509, tracking slightly under the broader Reno median. Well-priced historic homes with updated kitchens and systems in the $600K–$800K range tend to go pending within three to four weeks; larger estates above $1M and properties needing significant restoration may take six to twelve weeks to attract the right buyer.
Old Southwest Reno's appeal is neighborhood-scale: mature tree canopy, walkable streets, and easy access to Midtown's dense restaurant and bar scene. Residents are 5–10 minutes from the Truckee Riverwalk, Wingfield Park, and UNR's cultural calendar. The neighborhood lacks suburban amenity packages (no golf, no community pool by default) but trades those for architectural character and land that no master plan can replicate.
Old Southwest Reno is primarily an owner-occupied neighborhood, but investor-owners do rent historic homes to UNR faculty, medical professionals at Renown Health, and remote workers who value walkable in-town living. Single-family homes typically rent for $2,200–$3,500/month depending on size and condition. No HOA rental restrictions apply to most properties — a meaningful advantage for investors versus downtown condo buildings.
Property taxes 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 $622K Old Southwest home, the annual tax bill typically runs $3,600–$5,075 per the Washoe County Assessor — paired with Nevada's zero state income tax, total carrying cost stays far below California equivalents for comparable historic homes.
Nevada has zero state personal income tax versus California's rate of up to 13.3% per the California Franchise Tax Board. A household earning $250,000 saves roughly $20,000 per year in state income taxes alone by relocating from California to Old Southwest Reno. Paired with property-tax caps under NRS 361.471 and no California-style wealth taxes, the annual after-tax advantage is often the single largest financial reason buyers make the move.
Old Southwest Reno is one of Reno's better in-town options for families — quieter streets than downtown, Reno High School (8/10 GreatSchools) assigned at the secondary level, and large lots with mature trees that suburban master plans can't replicate. Families prioritizing walkability to Midtown dining and Truckee Riverwalk activities over formal community amenities find Old Southwest a natural fit.
Old Southwest Reno (89509) is quieter, more residential, and priced higher than Midtown Reno — $622K median vs roughly $450K in Midtown. Old Southwest homes are almost exclusively single-family on large historic lots; Midtown mixes condos, lofts, and smaller SFR. Both are highly walkable to Reno restaurants and the Riverwalk, but Old Southwest skews toward established families and buyers who want architectural character over urban density.
Most homes in Old Southwest Reno carry no HOA — one of the neighborhood's most appealing features for buyers who want flexibility. A handful of sub-developments built in or converted to HOA structures carry dues of $50–$200/month, but the large majority of the district's Tudor, Craftsman, and brick homes are HOA-free. Verify HOA status on each specific address before writing an offer.
Budget for higher purchase prices reflecting the scarcity of historic in-town land — $500K–$1.5M+ depending on size and condition. Commission a thorough home inspection on any pre-1960 home: older plumbing, knob-and-tube wiring, and deferred maintenance are common in the lower price tiers. Verify flood zone designation along the Truckee River drainage corridor. And tour the neighborhood on foot at multiple times of day — the streets are genuinely pleasant and that walkability rarely shows up in listing photos.
Most Old Southwest Reno buyers put down 10%–20%. Conventional loans start at 3% for qualified first-time buyers (620+ credit). At the $622K ZIP median, 10% down is $72,500 and 20% is $145,000. Jumbo financing is required above $766K, typically needing 700+ credit and 20% down with reserves. Call Nevada Real Estate Group at (775) 277-2120 to confirm current conventional and jumbo thresholds — they shift with each year's conforming limit.
It depends on priorities. Old Southwest Reno has a median near $622K, larger lots, historic architectural character, no HOA on most homes, and Reno High School (8/10) assigned — ideal for buyers who want single-family prestige close to Midtown. Midtown Reno offers more entry-level options from $380K–$500K, a denser restaurant and arts scene, and a more urban mixed-use energy. They're 5 minutes apart — tour both before deciding.
Most Old Southwest Reno single-family purchases close in 30–45 days. Cash offers can close in 10–21 days on fully renovated homes. Financed purchases run 30–45 days from accepted offer. Historic homes requiring lender appraisal clarification or well-and-septic inspections (rare in this in-town district) may add 5–10 days. Estates above $1.2M with jumbo financing occasionally run 45–60 days as underwriting is more intensive.
Updated September 2026
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
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PEOPLE ALSO ASK
Beyond the FAQ above, these are the queries Old Southwest 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, HOA status from Washoe County records, and drive times from City of Reno data.
Old Southwest Reno is bounded roughly by the Truckee River to the north, Lakeside Drive to the west, Plumb Lane to the south, and S Virginia Street to the east. The primary ZIP is 89509 with some overlap into 89501. Sub-districts include Newlands Heights, Newlands Manor, the California Avenue corridor, and the Plumb Lane area — each with its own character and price range.
The most sought-after addresses in Old Southwest Reno are in Newlands Manor and Newlands Heights — California Avenue and the streets immediately surrounding it for mid-range historic homes ($650K–$1.1M), and the higher-elevation blocks west of Lakeside for Newlands Heights estates ($900K–$1.5M+). The specific block matters as much as the sub-district — tour in person.
Very few. Old Southwest Reno is a fully built-out historic district — the occasional teardown/rebuild happens on larger lots, but new construction is the exception rather than the rule. That scarcity of land is a key reason why Old Southwest values hold up well and appreciation has outpaced many Reno master plans.
Reno High School (8/10 GreatSchools) is approximately 5–10 minutes from most Old Southwest Reno addresses — walking distance from the California Avenue corridor and a short bike ride from Newlands Manor. Most Old Southwest students can walk or bike to school, which is a meaningful quality-of-life advantage versus suburban Reno.
Budget for a thorough pre-purchase inspection ($800–$1,500 for a specialist on pre-1960 homes) and potential remediation of older plumbing (galvanized or cast iron), knob-and-tube electrical, and HVAC systems. Cosmetically updated homes in the $700K–$900K range have often already addressed these issues. Homes at the lower $500K–$650K entry often need more investment. Always ask for disclosure of any prior work and permits.
Yes — the California Avenue corridor and blocks closest to Virginia Street are 5–10 minutes on foot or by bike from Midtown Reno's restaurant and bar scene. The deeper western blocks (closer to Lakeside Drive) are a 15–20 minute walk or a quick bike ride. Old Southwest Reno is the most walkable established single-family neighborhood in the Reno metro outside downtown.
Verify flood zone status on each individual property — the northern edge of Old Southwest Reno near the Truckee River corridor includes some parcels in or near FEMA flood zones. Properties along California Avenue and deeper into the neighborhood south of the river corridor are typically outside the flood zone, but always check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and your lender's flood certificate requirement before making an offer.
Old Southwest Reno ($622K median, no HOA, historic character) and Caughlin Ranch ($650K median, $50–$150/month HOA, established master plan) serve similar family-oriented buyer profiles but with different tradeoffs. Old Southwest wins on architectural character, school assignment prestige (same Reno HS), and no-HOA freedom. Caughlin Ranch wins on newer home condition, lower entry price, and HOA-maintained common areas. Both offer quick airport access (20–25 min) and Midtown proximity (10–15 min).
WHY NEVADA REAL ESTATE GROUP
Deep knowledge of Old Southwest sub-districts — Newlands Manor, Newlands Heights, California Avenue, and Plumb Lane — plus historic home inspection vetting, pre-1960 construction guidance, and jumbo financing coordination across 150+ licensed agents and 9,061+ verified five-star reviews. Nevada Real Estate Group: 9,600+ closings, $4.85B+ in volume, #1 in Nevada.
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 Old Southwest Reno with neighboring Reno neighborhoods and nearby Northern Nevada options. Each card pairs the commute time to Old Southwest with the community's price positioning, so you can judge whether an adjacent area offers better value for your specific priorities.
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 starting as low as $420K, and HOA details for that specific community.
KEEP LEARNING
These guides extend the research most Old Southwest Reno buyers do next — comparing the Midtown Reno restaurant district, exploring the downtown Reno condo market, and understanding the broader Reno real estate landscape — each written from the same NNRMLS data and primary sources used throughout this page.
GUIDE
Reno's restaurant and arts hub — walkable, mixed-use, and 5 minutes north of Old Southwest at a lower median price.
Read →GUIDE
Walk Score 90+, condos from $300K, and the Truckee Riverwalk on the doorstep — the urban condo alternative to Old Southwest.
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