A college town with a highly rated public school system
Just north of Michigan State University, waves of green and white apparel light up the streets of East Lansing during college football gamedays, when up to 75,000 fans pack into Spartan Stadium. Aside from being a source of local pride, the college is the city's top employer. "It's not just for college students," says Realtor Leanne Johnson, who sells homes in the city with Weichert Realtors – Home Town. "The neighborhood is really great for families and has an extraordinary school system." East Lansing also offers residents a highly rated public school system and access to 21 different public parks. About 48,000 people live in the city.
The MSU campus is a beautiful, walkable college campus that anchor's East Lansing.
The MSU Broad Art Museum, by architect Zaha Hadid, makes a bold statement at MSU in East Lansing
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Suburban blocks with a range of housing styles
Tall hardwood trees shade the front yards set back from the sidewalk-lined streets. Homes range from condos and townhouses to single-family Craftsman-style, split-level, Colonial Revivals and contemporary properties. The median single-family home price is $305,000, over twice Lansing's median price and over $100,000 less than the national median. Prices range from $155,000 for early 20th-century bungalows to $750,000 for mid-century brick ranch styles. The city's various condos are priced from $140,000 to $325,000. "The homes have a lot of character," Johnson says, "They don't have a cookie-cutter feel." Lot sizes tend to increase as residents head east and north, away from Michigan State University and downtown East Lansing.
Tax rates may discourage some buyers. "Lansing city has the highest property taxes in the area, and East Lansing is right behind it," says Realtor Troy Seyfert, who sells homes in both cities with Re/Max Real Estate Professionals. "Lansing and East Lansing also have 1% income taxes."
A colorful row of newer Craftsman-style homes on Virginia Ave in East Lansing.
Beautiful ranch homes are found sprinkled throughout East Lansing.
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The highly rated East Lansing Public School District
The East Lansing School District has an 89% graduation rate and receives an A rating from Niche. The district has six elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. East Lansing High School's reading proficiency is 68%, and its math proficiency is 43%, which are higher than state and national averages. Over 50,000 Spartans attend Michigan State University, making it the second-largest university in terms of enrollment in Michigan.
MacDonald Middle School, in East Lansing, serves students in grades 6-8 and holds an A rating.
With an A rating from Niche.com, East Lansing High School offers an excellent education.
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Twenty-one parks within walking distance of residences
A network of paved trails and sidewalk-lined roadways link together parks throughout East Lansing. These range from the White Memorial City Park with its fishing pond and sledding hill to open green parks with athletic amenities and multi-use fields. On the city's outskirts, Nancy Moore Park has 40 acres of paved and dirt trails, baseball fields, volleyball courts and basketball courts. The East Lansing Family Aquatic Center has a 190-foot tube water slide, diving board and splash park. It's part of a complex with four ball fields and the Northern Tail Dog Park, where locals and their pets can socialize in a leash-free area. Two public golf courses are north of the city, while Michigan State University is also home to two public courses. Lake Lansing, with public launches, sailing clubs and fishing, is only a mile east of city limits.
A visitor to Albert A. White Memorial Park, enjoys a quiet moment beside the park's pond.
Albert A. White Memorial Park is a large park with a fishing deck and walkable trails.
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Dining along East Lansing Road and shopping at Eastwood Towne Center
Several fast-food franchises and local restaurants line West Grand River Avenue, while East Lansing Road only has local options. Constellation Cat Cafe serves warm beverages while cats crawl around, many of which are available for adoption. Just down the street, Grand Grillin serves chicken wraps and nachos. Kroger and Meijer are in the city's northwest corner for groceries, while a Whole Foods and a Trader Joe’s are in the southeast. Eastwood Towne Center is just outside the city and has several big-box retailers and a movie theater.
The busy sidewalk seating of local restaurants in downtown East Lansing come alive in spring.
MSU students enjoy a good meal at Dave's Hot Chicken in East Lansing.
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Entertainment at the university and an annual jazz festival
Michigan State's campus is home to several entertainment options besides its football stadium. The Wharton Center for Performing Arts features Broadway shows, local performances and touring musical acts. The Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens is a 14-acre springtime oasis of perennials, annuals, vegetables and a children's garden with playhouses and whimsical shrubbery. For entertainment off campus, East Lansing's downtown hosts the Summer Solstice Jazz Festival, featuring both national and local artists.
You watch a variety of performing arts programs at MSU's Wharton Center in East Lansing.
Enjoy a Spartan game at Spartan Field on MSU's campus in East Lansing.
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Access to public transportation and employers
"Michigan State is a top employer, but lot of state workers commute to downtown Lansing," Seyfert says. Folks also commute to the city for jobs at General Motors, Auto-Owners Insurance Group and Peckham Incorporated.
The Michigan State Capital is in downtown Lansing, about 5 miles west of East Lansing via Interstate 496. The Capital Area Transit Authority operates bus stops throughout the city, connecting residents to Lansing. Capital Region International Airport is about 8 miles northwest of East Lansing via West Grand River Avenue and Interstate 96.
University of Michigan Health-Sparrow is the nearest 24-hour emergency care hospital, 4 miles away in Lansing. U.S. News & World Report rates the health system as "high-performing" for its treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, heart failure, heart attack and prostate cancer surgery.
Crime
East Lansing's violent crime rate is below the national and state medians, while the property crime rate is above them. The city of East Lansing saw a 28% decrease in violent crime in 2023, while the Lansing Police Department saw an increase in violent crime overall.
Written By
William Palicia
Photography Contributed By
Christopher Shires
Video By
Colleen Carey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jonathan Lum,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in East Lansing, MI sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in East Lansing, MI over the last 12 months is $330,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 605 Glenmoor Rd. #2A, a beautifully maintained 1-bedroom condo offering comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable East Lansing location! Just minutes from Michigan State University and located just outside Frandor, this condo provides easy access to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and major roadways. This secure building features controlled main-level access with interior mailboxes
If you seek a Northern Michigan setting within walking distance of MSU campus and shopping, this is your home! Located on a lovingly landscaped double lot in the desirable Pinecrest neighborhood. Features include a stunning 4-season room with a gas fireplace and cathedral windows overlooking a small forest of 75 tall pines. Kitchen features a vaulted ceiling and walls of inlaid cherry and a large
HBB Realtors HBB RealtorsRE/MAX Real Estate Professionals
Updated kitchen cabinets, new windows, fresh paint, new furnace, and more This 3 bedroom, 1 bath home sits on a generous 0.64-acre parcel in East Lansing. This property is also already approved to change zoning to commercial if buyer wanted. Previously Licensed for a family or 2 unrelated occupants, it offers flexibility as both a primary residence and a smart investment property. Inside, you'll
Welcome to 676 Buteo Dr! This beautiful two-story home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, offering both comfort and functionality. The main level boasts laminate flooring throughout, an inviting eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, a center island, and stainless steel appliances. A sliding door off the dining area leads to the deck and backyard—perfect for entertaining. The spacious great
Welcome to 466 Wayland Ave in East Lansing, this beautifully updated home combines classic charm with numerous major improvements, making it truly move-in ready. Recent updates include new carpet in the living room, dining room, and main-floor bedroom (May 2026), along with a freshly painted interior (May 2026) and exterior paint completed in 2025. The home has also benefited from important
Located in one of East Lansing's most conveniently established neighborhoods, Oakhill offers exceptional access to downtown East Lansing, Hannah Community Center and Michigan State University, all within easy walking distance, along with nearby shopping, dining, parks, and major commuter routes. This home features 3 bedrooms on the second floor and 2 full bathrooms, with one on each level,
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully updated home in one of East Lansing's most convenient and sought-after locations. 230 Kenberry combines modern improvements, flexible living space, and exceptional proximity to Michigan State University and the energy of downtown East Lansing—making it a standout option that won't stay on the market for long. This home features three bedrooms
Welcome to 727 Audubon Road, a beautifully maintained home offering over 3,400 square feet of living space in the highly desirable Glencarin neighborhood. This home is three stories on three lots, making it one of the biggest lots in Glencarin. Ideally located just minutes from the vibrant restaurants, shopping, and social scene of East Lansing, this 5-bedroom, 4 full-bathroom home blends
RARE FIND in East Lansing! It's not often you find a buildable vacant lot in such an incredible location, especially one surrounded by mature trees and within walking distance to so much of what makes East Lansing special! This beautiful lot offers over a quarter acre and the perfect opportunity to build your dream home right in the heart of the city. Located around the corner from the library
Welcome home to this beautifully remodeled top-floor 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo in the heart of East Lansing! Move-in ready and thoughtfully updated in 2022, this home combines modern finishes with comfortable, low-maintenance living. Step inside to find luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas, new carpet in both bedrooms, and an updated kitchen featuring stainless steel
Welcome to 1438 N. Hagadorn Rd in East Lansing, a beautifully updated home that offers modern finishes, outstanding amenities, and true move-in-ready convenience. The open floor plan is complemented by hardwood floors, creating a warm and inviting space that's perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The updated kitchen features new appliances, including a range and dishwasher (2023), and
Welcome to 605 Glenmoor Rd. #2A, a beautifully maintained 1-bedroom condo offering comfort, convenience, and an unbeatable East Lansing location! Just minutes from Michigan State University and located just outside Frandor, this condo provides easy access to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and major roadways. This secure building features controlled main-level access with interior mailboxes
Absolutely gorgeous home in the Sierra Ridge neighborhood in the award-winning Haslett School District! This 5 bedroom 3.5-bath custom-built home has been beautifully updated and designed with an open floor plan that's perfect for both everyday living and entertaining! The main level features a welcoming two story entry, a spacious living room with a stunning stacked stone fireplace, with a
Welcome to this bright and inviting condo in the sought-after Cottages at Hawk Hollow! Completed in 2021, this spacious home offers three bedrooms plus a versatile office that can easily serve as a fourth bedroom. Thoughtful finishes include white shaker cabinetry, granite countertops, bar seating, a cozy gas fireplace, a tiled shower, private back deck, and many other special touches throughout.
Choose Home, Choose Victory. Welcome to your best option for Luxury Off-Campus Student Housing Near MSU. Burcham Place offers a community you can call home during your university years. Looking for space, this community of properties offers three and four renovated floor plans with comforts of on-site parking and in unit washer/dryer plus central air!
Student Apartments at The Club at Chandler Crossings offers a wide variety of floor plans each designed to give you exactly what you need. Residents can choose from two, three, or four bedroom units completely outfitted with furniture and a wall mounted flat screen TV. These apartments near Michigan State University and Lansing Community College have been designed with the busy student in
TAKE YOUR LIFESTYLE TO THE NEXT LEVEL AT EAST LANSING’SPREMIER LUXURY COMMUNITY. OFFERING ALL NEW SPACESEQUIPPED WITH DESIGNER FURNISHINGS. NOCA LOFTS SET THE STANDARD FORMODERN STYLE AND CONVENIENCE.
College life doesn't have to end when class is over - in fact, it's just beginning! Hannah Townhomes and Lofts student apartments in East Lansing is a place to meet new friends, reach a new fitness goal, collaborate on a group project, cook up a new recipe, play with your pet, host a movie night, learn a new skill, and more. This is so much more than a place to live. It's a lifestyle designed by
Discover charming apartment homes of distinction in the historic district of East Lansing. Enjoy carefree living surrounded by natural beauty, with a central location just minutes from shopping, dining, recreation, Michigan State University, and highway access. Our unique communities feature original hardwood floors, classic ceramic tile, abundant storage, and windows in every room for bright,
Nestled among lush woodlands and open green spaces, our community offers a peaceful retreat with city convenience. Enjoy a private pond and direct access to the Northern Tier Trail - perfect for biking, jogging, or walking your dog. Choose from spacious 1- and 2-bedroom homes with covered parking, controlled access entry, and select features like balconies, fireplaces, and in-home laundry. Stay
Premier, fully furnished, student housing for MSU. At The Village apartments in East Lansing, students get to choose from eight different floor plans each with its own unique design and style. These one, two, three, and four bedroom units feature spacious rooms, lots of storage space, and the latest in fixtures and appliances, including a washer and dryer in every unit and a large flat screen
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT AS OF 2/19/25 - located under 10 minutes from MSU and 15 minutes to LCC, come see why nearly 900 residents call the Landings home!With a mix of 2 bed 2 bath, 3 bed 3 bath, and 4 bed 4 bath, we have something for everyone! In Unit Washer and DryerFree bus pass to take you all over MSU and the Lansing area from sun up to sun
Designed for students and young professionals, Landmark on Grand River marks the crossroads of everything at Michigan State University and East Lansing. Far or near, you will be able to see Landmark on Grand River as it soars above all. Residents will experience unparalleled access to everything: classes, Student Union, main bus line, sporting events, retail, dining, all while directly atop a
Welcome to the apartment you've been looking for at Hidden Tree, with a great location near the heart of East Lansing and just minutes from dining, shopping, and MSU. Our community also features a private Patio/Balcony, walk-in closets, covered parking, a dog park, and more! Come relax at Hidden Tree and learn more about our convenient amenities and superb location.
To visitors, Downtown East Lansing is a bustling hub of game-day parties and college student nightlife, but residents see the shaded streets and architecturally rich homes just blocks from the Albert Street and Grand River Avenue hustle. “I feel like all the neighbors know each other,” says Leanne Johnson, a Realtor with Weichert, Realtors - Home Towne.<br><br>Elegant Colonial-style homes and signature Cape Cod dormers greet residents as they drive, cycle or walk around the neighborhood. “You don’t get a cookie cutter feel with these homes,” Johnson says. The subdivisions and side roads are easy walking distance to dining, local parks and the Michigan State University campus, but far enough away to avoid crowded streets at the end of the day. While there are still plenty of single-family homes in the downtown area, some have been renovated for student housing. You’ll also find condos and more modest ranch-style houses throughout the neighborhood. Prices range from under $100,000 for those ranch-style homes and condos to over $800,000 for spacious Colonial and Cape Cod houses on generous lots.<br><br>While residential streets can feel like a step removed from the college-town thrills, you can’t escape the energy of Michigan State University as you travel along Grand River Avenue and Albert Street. A leisurely weekend or daily visit to this commercial area takes you past plentiful patio and rooftop seating for summertime eats, with a blend of historic buildings and modern interiors greet you on a winter’s evening out. Black Cat Bistro has a welcoming atmosphere for brunch or dinner, with a brunch-time menu covering breakfast bowls to chocolate glazed pancakes.<br><br>“El Azteco is a really great place downtown,” says Johnson. “I love the tacos there. I’d definitely recommend a visit.” HopCat’s brewery scene is where you can find an extensive beer menu and all your pub favorites, from beer-battered Cosmik fries to a HopKittens children’s menu. The Peanut Barrel is another crowd favorite, with one of the most popular game-day patios in town. It’s been a staple of Downtown East Lansing since 1973 and continues to entice passersby with burgers, beer and their famous Long Island Iced Tea. Head away from these buzzing local restaurants to find Whole Foods Market and other convenient shopping areas east along Grand River Avenue. Head west along the popular avenue to stop by Frandor Shopping Center on your way to Lansing and the Capitol Complex. <br><br>Local students can attend Glencairn Elementary School, a highly rated option offering before- and after-school childcare in connection with the East Lansing Parks, Recreation and Arts Department. For sixth through eighth grade, kids go to MacDonald Middle School. At East Lansing High School, students can compete as East Lansing Trojans in range of athletics and join student clubs, including an a capella club and pickleball club.<br><br>Community parks make it easy to find a nearby playground or walking trail in East Lansing. Valley Court Park also hosts events, like the East Lansing Farmer’s Market and Play in the Park, a series of live performances and comedy shows for children. Of course, you’re never far from a trip to see fossils at the Smithsonian-affiliated MSU Museum or a seat at Spartan Stadium.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
16
Median Rent
$1,759
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,200
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,500
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,100
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,100
Median Condo Rent
$1,300
Median 1 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,200
Weather
Annual Precipitation
32''
Average Winter Low Temperature
17°F
Average Summer High Temperature
82°F
Annual Snowfall
72''
Area Factors
Moderately bikeable
Bikeability®
60/ 100
Fairly walkable
Walkability®
50/ 100
Some public transit
Transit®
40/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
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.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
