Access to government jobs, outdoor recreation and entertainment
Every year, thousands of visitors climb the grand staircases of the Michigan State Capitol and gaze up at the rotunda ceiling, decorated with ornate flourishes and classical depictions of muses. While the capitol makes Downtown Lansing the legislative heart of the state, there are also judicial and administrative offices like the Michigan Department of Attorney General, the Michigan Court of Appeals and the State Bar of Michigan. “If people work downtown for the state, they tend to live there,” says Realtor Eleanor Cowen, who sells homes in the neighborhood with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals. “Lansing has a big community of people that are really into the downtown.” When downtown residents finish up a long day of running the state, they have many options to unwind, whether catching a Minor League baseball game or spending the evening at one of the parks overlooking the Grand River.
Downtown Lansing is the heartbeat of state government, shops and museums.
Downtown Lansing is home of the Michigan State Capital building..
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Craftsman styles, American Foursquares and condos
Downtown Lansing’s single-family homes were built on long, narrow lots along sidewalk-lined streets, shaded by old-growth trees. Craftsman-style houses built in the 1910s are priced from $80,000 to $150,000. American Foursquare houses built in the 1910s and ‘20s are priced from $110,000 to $230,000. Two-story wood-frame Victorian homes are priced as low as $130,000, and brick Victorians are priced as high as $290,000. Early-2000s brick condos are priced from $135,000 to $270,000. There are also several apartment complexes - roughly 86% of housing in the neighborhood is rentals. “Aside from professionals, a lot of students also live downtown,” says Realtor Shara Grachek, who sells houses in the neighborhood with Five Star Real Estate.
Downtown Lansing includes a selection of Victorian Era homes.
Smaller family homes sit on small lots in Downtown Lansing.
Downtown Lansing includes larger, older homes, located near Michigan government buildings.
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Coffee at Strange Matter and sandwiches at La Cocina Cubana
A perk of living downtown is the walkable access to multiple shopping and dining options. Most options are clustered along South Washington Square. Strange Matter is a warmly lit coffee, doughnut and sandwich shop with exposed brick walls and laminated plywood tables. Midtown Brewing Company prepares burgers using beef from the nearby Angus Cattle Company and has 40 taps of Michigan-based craft beer. Patrons walk up to the counter at La Cocina Cubana to order traditional Cuban sandwiches. Across the river, Capital City Market is a local grocery store that specializes in products made in Michigan. The market tends to be pricier than other options around the city, like Kroger or Meijer.
La Cocina Cubana is a great spot to grab an authentic Cuban sandwich in Downtown Lansing.
Grab a hot cup of coffee at Strange Matter Coffee Shop in Downtown Lansing.
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Sports at Ferris Park and strolls along the Grand River
Multiple parks are located within the neighborhood. A few blocks from the Michigan State Capitol, Ferris Park is an oak-shaded space with a basketball court, a playground and a soccer field. At Reutter Park, benches surround a glistening fountain beneath the shade of old-growth trees. Adado Riverfront Park has a paved boardwalk where visitors can stroll and watch kayakers paddle down the Grand River. Cyclists and hikers cross the Grand River Bridge to access the paved Lansing River Trail, which is 13 miles long.
The Lansing River Trail is the highlight of Lansing and runs near Downtown Lansing.
Adabo Park is a large park along the Grand River and is located near Downtown Lansing.
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Live music at the Michigan Chicken Wing Festival and ball games at Jackson Field
Adado Riverfront Park hosts year-round concerts and festivals. In June, the Lansing Fiesta celebrates Lansing’s Hispanic culture with local DJs, a craft beer tent, taco trucks, cornhole competitions and plenty of dancing. In August, the park also hosts the Michigan Chicken Wing Festival, which involves two days of live blues and jazz performances, craft beer vendors and thousands of hot wings prepared by Lansing businesses. Just across the river, Jackson Field is the home of the Michigan State Spartans college baseball team and the Lansing Lugnuts, a Minor League baseball team. On the neighborhood’s west side, the Michigan History Center has five levels of exhibits, which include the skeletal remains of a mammoth with butchering marks, Indigenous artifacts, boats and fishing implements showcasing the state’s nautical history, classic cars showcasing the state’s automotive history and agricultural equipment.
A docent answers a student's questions at the Michigan History Center in Downtown Lansing.
Jackson Field, located minutes from Downtown Lansing, is home of the Lansing Lugnuts.
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J.W. Sexton High School's International Thespian Society chapter
Because of the district's school choice policy, parents have to apply for their children to attend any school. Parents are encouraged to choose the closest schools to their home. Riddle Elementary, Waverly Middle and J.W. Sexton High School all have C Niche ratings. The elementary and high schools are within three blocks of the neighborhood, and the middle school is less than 3 miles away. The high school has a chapter of the International Thespian Society, a national honor society that connects theater students to professionals in performing arts fields. Members include Tom Hanks, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Val Kilmer. Downtown Lansing is also home to Cooley Law School and Lansing Community College.
Vivian Riddle Elementary school on Huron St is located near Downtown Lansing.
Waverly Middle School has earned a C rating on Niche.
J.W. Sexton High School provides a STEM-based curriculum for Lansing youth.
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Pancakes at St. Mary Cathedral
The neighborhood has several historic churches. The 150-year-old Central United Methodist Church is just next door to the capitol, and on Sundays, a bell choir performs for the congregation. St. Mary Cathedral, completed in 1913, hosts its congregation for Sunday morning coffee and doughnuts, a monthly parish potluck and monthly pancake breakfasts.
Downtown Lansing includes several churches including St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral.
The Central United Methodist Church serves parishioners in Downtown Lansing.
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Getting around the neighborhood
Bus stops line the neighborhood’s streets, including West Saginaw, West Shiawassee and West Ottawa. The Lansing Parking Department offers discounts for people who live and work downtown. Capital Region International Airport, 4 miles northwest, provides limited commercial flights through Delta and American Airlines. University of Michigan Health – Sparrow, roughly a mile east, provides 24-hour service for emergency medical care.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Downtown Lansing neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Lansing
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Downtown Lansing Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Lansing, Lansing sell after 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Lansing, Lansing over the last 12 months is $175,000, up 28% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome Home to 325 N Sycamore - Where Character Meets Convenience Step into timeless charm in the heart of Lansing's historic Genesee neighborhood. This beautifully crafted 4-bedroom, 2-bath home, with a flexible den that can easily serve as a fourth bedroom, offers more than just a place to live. It's a space to thrive, dream, and create lasting memories. From the moment you arrive, you'll be
Spacious Lansing Home! 5 bedrooms (but could be up to 7), 3 full bath home with over 1,600 sq ft plus a full basement (with tall ceilings and fireplace, could be finished). Home has excellent potential for renovation, rental income (rent by the room or group home), or for large family. The main level features a living room, dining room, kitchen, and bedroom (or 2), while the second floor includes
WELCOME TO THIS WELL-MAINTAINED TWO-STORY DUPLEX OFFERING A FANTASTIC INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY WITH STABLE, IMMEDIATE RENTAL INCOME. EACH UNIT FEATURES 2 BEDROOMS AND 1 FULL BATH WITH APPROXIMATELY 1,000 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING SPACE. BOTH UNITS ARE VERY CLEAN, WELL CARED FOR, AND CURRENTLY OCCUPIED BY TENANTS, MAKING THIS A TRUE TURNKEY, INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTY. ENJOY OPEN AND SPACIOUS FLOOR PLANS
Late 1800's Victorian house is sitting, waiting for it's next visionary. Best part is the carriage house in rear is also available and set up as duplex with 2 x 1 bed 1 bath units, with separate heating/cooling and electrical (shared water between all 3 properties but could be split) (and new roof that was torn off and re-shingled with new underlayment). Don't need the rental convert back to
Whatever you can imagine can be created in this 1908 built 2 story structure with over 1900 finished square feet. If you're looking to customize the home and reside in it, you will enjoy the covered front porch, attached garage, original wall cabinet in kitchen area and updated mechanicals and roof. Could be a fantastic owner occupied or even duplex property with walkability to anywhere downtown.
Welcome home to 516 W Ionia! Ideally located just minutes from downtown Lansing, this property offers convenient access to local eateries, bars, and cozy coffee shops, with Lansing Community College just a short walk away. With a little TLC, this two-bedroom, one-bath home is full of potential—perfect for buyers looking to add their personal touch and build equity. In addition to its prime
Solid investment property with long rental history. This two-story single-family home has 1,766 square feet, includes 5 bedrooms, and has 2 bathrooms. Parking is on the street, in shared lot or empty lot across the street. Extensive renovations, including new carpet, two new windows, new central air, new kitchen countertops and new appliances in 2025. Current tenant is paying $1,500 per month on
Solid investment property with long rental history. This two-story duplex has 1,701 finished square feet, including a 1-bed/1-bath lower-level unit and a 2-bed/1-bath upper-level unit with a bonus room on 3rd floor. New blinds and fresh paint in 2025. 2 sets of W/Ds in basement. Shared driveway with 427 N Butler leads to large parking lot in rear. The upper unit is rented for $900 per month, the
Solid investment property with long rental history. This two-story single-family home has 1,838 finished square feet, including 6 bedrooms, and 4 bathrooms. Finished rec room (or 7th bedroom) in basement. Extensive renovations, including new carpet, new windows and new appliances in 2025. New A/C in 2024 and new roof in 2019. Current tenant is paying $1,650 per month on a lease that ends 5/31/26,
Great Investment Opportunity! This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is currently rented for $1,325 per month, with a lease in place through July 2026 offering immediate cash flow for investors. The property features a welcoming front porch, ideal for relaxing outdoors, as well as an additional lot extending 6 feet from the driveway, providing extra space and potential. Inside, you'll find a
Welcome to 529 Cherry Street, a well-maintained two-unit investment property located in Lansing's historic district. This fully leased multi-family offers immediate income potential and strong rental appeal. The main level (Unit A) features a one-bedroom layout with a spacious living room complete with a fireplace, a nicely appointed kitchen with included appliances, in-unit laundry, and a
Turnkey investment property with rental income! This updated home currently has a tenant in place paying $1,400 per month, with a lease secured through November 15, 2026, offering investors cash flow from day one. Ideally located close to LCC, Quality Dairy, nearby parks, and the Grand River, the property benefits from strong rental demand due to its central location and proximity to local
Brand new apartments in Lansing, Michigan. Simplify your life in style with a brand-new luxury apartment home at City View. Choose from pet-friendly studio, one, and two-bedroom floor plans complete with modern finishes and upscale amenities like hardwood floors, designer cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances. Located in downtown Lansing, close to General Motors, the Capitol, and Michigan
Located in the heart of Michigans vibrant capital, Lansing Tower Apartments is taking home to new heights. Our studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans are designed to provide residents with the ultimate living experience. Every home is fitted with custom kitchen layouts, energy efficient appliances, hardwood-style flooring, plush carpeting, and spacious closets. Amenities include a rooftop
This property is managed by Beztak, 2025 recipient of the US Best Managed Companies for the sixth year in a row, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. Call and let us tell you why! Welcome to a lifestyle of convenience at Ferris Park Towers, a luxury high rise building with expansive views, offering spacious studios, one and two-bedroom apartment homes with all utilities
Each of our studio, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments are designed with your lifestyle in mind. Whether you’re looking for a spacious floor plan or something a bit cozier, we have the home you want in the location you desire. From here, you’re always moments away from neighborhood conveniences, major employers, and Michigan State University.Experience a home that exceeds every expectation at Cherry Hill.
The Arbaugh offers everything you need to live comfortably in downtown Lansing, MI. Our homes feature all the amenities you look for in a luxury apartment building. Rich in history, the building was originally constructed in 1905. It now features 48 individual loft apartments, each with premium granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and in-unit washers and dryers. The Arbaugh offers
CHECK OUT OUR VIRTUAL TOUR! http://www.mthmgt.com/shiawassee-apartments-one-bedroom/ http://www.mthmgt.com/shiawassee-apartments-two-bedroom/ Check out these gorgeous updated apartments!Updated with new flooring and bathrooms, these beautiful and spacious apartments boast natural lighting and excellent location! Located in downtown Lansing, close to Sparrow, Lansing Community College and
Welcome to Capitol View Apartments! Our community offers a selection of studio, one, and two-bedroom modern apartments for rent. Near US-127 and I-496, Capitol View Apartments provides a central location in the epicenter of Lansing's finest retail, dining, and shopping and makes traveling downtown simple. Each contemporary residence includes an open concept living area, custom entertainment
Colonial Place Apartments offers studio, 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes in the heart of Lansing. This well-maintained community combines comfortable living with everyday convenience in a residential setting near downtown. Select units have been beautifully remodeled with updated cabinets and new flooring.Residents enjoy secured entry, on-site laundry facilities, off-street parking, and
Welcome to Metro Place Apartments, offering pet-friendly studio, one, and two-bedroom apartment homes in a convenient Lansing, MI location. Designed for comfortable everyday living, our apartments feature spacious living rooms, granite countertops, GE appliances, subway tile backsplashes, oversized windows, and full-size in-unit washer and dryer. Select homes also include kitchen islands, walk-in
This well-kept 4 unit building is located in a prime location close to downtown and LCC. The unit features 1 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and is perfect for those looking for convenience and ease. All utilities are included in the rent, so you don’t have to worry about any additional bills. The eat-in full kitchen is perfect for those who enjoy cooking and the full bathroom is spacious and
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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