$196,946Average Value$144Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes For Sale
A lumber town turned waterfront downtown community
Nelson embraces its past with some of Muskegon’s oldest homes while welcoming the growth of the city’s downtown lakefront. Two massive 19th-century Victorian homes with elaborate designs stand in Nelson, known as the Hackley & Hume Historic Site. Charles Hackley and Thomas Hume are credited for putting Muskegon on the map as a prosperous lumber town in the 1850s. Their lumber mill, along with others, ran strong next to Muskegon Lake for decades. But when business waned in the late 1900s, the city turned to recreation and tourism on the waterfront, converting the rundown downtown into a vibrant area of shops, restaurants and entertainment. “First they put in a big mall that encompassed our historical buildings,” says Terry Puffer, a local Realtor and team lead with Five Star Real Estate. “They tore it all down, and now there’s a lot of new development there.” Part of Nelson’s revitalization also stems from the work of the Nelson Neighborhood Improvement Association. April Thompson, a board member of the NNIA, says, “Nelson has been a neighborhood in need of repair and people to move here to care for it. One way we do that is through Adopt-a-Lot. Neighbors will pick an empty lot and commit to maintaining it.” The neighborhood also strives to have a close-knit community by hanging newsletters on every doorknob three times a year, and hosting annual events, from summer concerts to Christmas celebrations in the park.
The Nelson neighborhood is the heart of Muskegon on the shores of Muskegon Lake.
The Nelson neighborhood is home to the LC Walker Arena, where the Lumberjacks play.
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Heritage Landing, Hackley Park and museums
Heritage Landing is the neighborhood’s lakefront park, where people can look out at the water from the compass-rose shaped pier. Trails wind around the green space and over a small, curving bridge above an inlet, leading to a sandy playground and amphitheater, where city events are held. Locals can keep their boats at the Adelaide Pointe marina or launch them from the boat ramp to go fishing and explore Muskegon Lake, or cross the channel to the open waters of Lake Michigan. Away from the water but still in the downtown area, Hackley Park is an urban square that was donated by Charles Hackley to the city. A 76-foot monument called “Soldiers and Sailors” stands in the middle with four other statues in the corners honoring Civil War heroes, including Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant. Several community gardens can be found all over the neighborhood as well. “The garden committee provides the seeds, dirt and water to anyone who might not be able to finance them,” says Thompson. “Some people grow flowers and some grow produce and share it with neighbors.” One garden is at the Hackley Public Library, another example of Victorian architecture wrapped in stone. It’s right next to the Muskegon Museum of Art, which is just one of many museums in Nelson. The Hackley and Hume Historic Site gives tours of the two mansions. A wooly mammoth statue greets visitors outside the Muskegon Museum of History & Science. And the USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum takes people inside a World War II Landing Ship Tank.
Hackley Park is located in Muskegon and gets its name from a prominent founding family.
The Muskegon Museum of Art in Nelson hosts rotating displays and exhibits.
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Muskegon Irish Music Festival and Christmas lights at the park
Tens of thousands of people gather at Heritage Landing for the Muskegon Irish Music Festival. The four-day event is held every September, featuring live Celtic music. A cruise ship typically stops by, adding more people to the spectacle. The Muskegon Farmers Market is open year-round with vendors moving inside from December to April. Locals have been attending Parties in the Park for more than 40 years at Hackley Park. The summertime event is held on Fridays and is a time for people to come together over food and live music. “A lot of people come to Parties in the Park,” says Thompson. “You bring your own chairs, grab something to eat from a food truck and enjoy the music.” The holiday season is kicked off with a tree-lighting ceremony at Hackley Park. But it’s not just the tree that lights up. The entire park, plus several blocks downtown illuminate with holiday lights.
Downtown shopping and dining
Many local businesses have set up shop on Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon. The area is full of restaurants, such as Dr. Rolf’s Barbecue, which was opened by local physician, Dr. Rolf, who also had a passion for cooking barbecue. There are also several breweries downtown, including Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, where people can eat and drink in the taproom or out on the patio. Locals can stay casual by hitting up Hamburger Mikey, a longtime staple serving burgers, fries and milkshakes, or head to The Lake House Waterfront Grill to enjoy small-plate seafood while watching the sunset behind Muskegon Lake. Shoppers will find several boutiques and gift shops on Western Avenue. For everyday shopping needs, locals are no more than 5 miles from big box retailers such as Walmart and Meijer.
Rad Dad's is a 90's-themed taco restaurant that's part of the LC Walker Arena in downtown.
The Cheese Lady is a regional wine and cheese market originally from Nelson.
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Bungalows, Victorians and contemporary lakefront houses
Residential grid-pattern streets are lined with sidewalks and single-family homes, most of which were built between 1900 and the 1930s. Single- and two-story Craftsman-style bungalows are common. In good condition, they sell for around $100,000 to $250,000. Fixer-uppers can sell for as low as $25,000. The neighborhood also has some larger 2,500- to 3,500-square-foot Colonial Revivals and Victorian-style homes near the Hackley & Hume Historic Site. These can range anywhere from $250,000 to $650,000. Developers have recently been filling empty lots with New Traditional houses ranging from $300,000 to $350,000. The Viridian Shores development is right along Muskegon Lake, with 1,800-square-foot, three-bedroom contemporary houses selling for $600,000 to $700,000.
The Nelson neighborhood has a large variety of homes, historic Victorian to new Traditional.
The Victorian style can be felt throughout the Nelson neighborhood homes.
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Home of the Big Reds
Muskegon Public Schools has a school choice program for elementary students. The district’s three elementary schools are about 2 to 3 miles away, with Oakview the closest, earning a C-minus grade from Niche. Charles Hackley Middle School has yet to be rated since opening in 2024. Muskegon High School, which earns a C-plus, won the Division II state football championship in 2023. The Big Reds' stadium is in the southeast corner of the neighborhood across the streets from homes, so it’s common to hear Friday night football games.
Charles Hackley Middle School is a public school located in Muskegon, Michigan.
Muskegon High School is located in Muskegon, Michigan.
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Getting around Muskegon
Public transportation is available with Muskegon Area Transit System bus stops located throughout the residential area and on the main roads. The neighborhood is about 7 miles from Pere Marquette Park, the city’s most prominent Lake Michigan beach. U.S. Business 31 runs through Nelson leading to U.S. 31, which runs north and south throughout the entire west coast of Michigan. It can also be taken 8 miles south to Muskegon County Airport, which offers 30-minute flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
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Nelson Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Nelson, Muskegon sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Nelson, Muskegon over the last 12 months is $157,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
MODEL OPEN-see hours below. Enjoy Muskegon Lake from this exceptional modern residence, thoughtfully crafted with elevated design and refined finishes throughout. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo offers an open-concept layout enhanced by soaring 9-foot ceilings, expansive windows, and a seamless flow ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Luxury vinyl plank flooring extends throughout the
MODEL OPEN-see hours below. Enjoy Muskegon Lake from this exceptional modern residence, thoughtfully crafted with elevated design and refined finishes throughout. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo offers an open-concept layout enhanced by soaring 9-foot ceilings, expansive windows, and a seamless flow ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Luxury vinyl plank flooring extends throughout the
Opportunity awaits at 1632 5th St! This spacious 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is full of character and ready for its next owner to bring it back to life. Featuring beautiful hardwood floors, generously sized rooms, an enclosed front porch, a partially finished basement, and a rare 2.5-stall detached garage, this home offers tremendous potential. Major mechanicals include a roof approximately 10 years
Full of character and ready for your personal touch! Welcome to 1587 Peck Street in Muskegon, MI, a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering over 1500 square feet of living space and distinctive architectural details. Built in 1925, this home showcases the warmth and personality of its era, beginning with the eye-catching arched window above the front entrance. Inside, the spacious living
Back on Market + Appraised at Value = Your Opportunity. Don't miss out again! Timeless character meets everyday functionality in this spacious 5-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in the City of Muskegon. Offering over 2,700 square feet above grade, this historic residence features beautiful wood flooring, a welcoming living room with a fireplace, and generous living spaces throughout. The covered, enclosed
Welcome to 447 W Southern Avenue, a character-filled home in the heart of Muskegon! Situated on a desirable fenced corner lot, this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers 1,566 square feet of finished living space with flexibility that's hard to find. Currently configured as a single-family residence, the home also offers the potential to function as two separate living spaces with the
Cute 2 bedroom, 1 bath bungalow with a nice-sized kitchen. Fridge and Stove included. Corner lot with a 1-car detached garage. Schedule your private showing today!
Welcome to this fully updated modern Victorian home in the heart of Downtown Muskegon - conveniently located to all the amenities downtown has to offer and just minutes from Lake Michigan! Thoughtfully updated from top to bottom while preserving the character that makes it truly special with oversized energy efficient windows throughout to ensure that every space feels bright and inviting.
Experience stylish, effortless downtown living in this striking two-story loft at the historic 297 Clay building! Featuring soaring ceilings, rich wood flooring, and timeless character, the main level offers an open-concept living and kitchen space perfect for entertaining. Upstairs, retreat to a spacious primary loft suite complete with a private full ensuite bath and slider access to your own
Buffy Jo SchictelColdwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Grand Haven
Located just blocks from schools, parks, downtown Muskegon, Heritage Landing, and Muskegon Lake, 1388 7th St offers convenience and value in one great package. This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home features nearly 1,000 square feet of comfortable living space. Recent major updates include new windows, roof, mechanicals, and appliances, giving you peace of mind from day one. The updated aesthetic
Central AC being added on July 8, 2026! This move-in ready 3-bedroom, 1-bath home blends classic character with thoughtful updates throughout. Step inside to find bright living spaces, fresh finishes, updated flooring, and abundant natural light. The spacious living room flows into a dedicated dining area, while the enclosed front porch provides the perfect spot for morning coffee, a home office,
Charming bungalow full of character and timeless appeal featuring beautiful hardwood floors, classic plaster walls, and elegant cove ceilings. The spacious living and dining rooms offer plenty of room for gatherings while showcasing the home’s charm and character. The updated kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances. First-floor laundry and a one-car garage add everyday practicality, while
Welcome to Viridian Shores! This stunning new home is yet to be built, giving you the opportunity to personalize your home with a variety of finishes, features, and options. Beautifully situated overlooking Muskegon Lake, this thoughtfully designed residence offers 3 bedrooms, 2½ baths, 9-foot ceilings on both levels, and an abundance of large windows that fill the home with natural light. The
Terrace Flats are conveniently located in downtown Muskegon next to the Muskegon Farmers Market and within walking distance to restaurants, distilleries and shopping. Located on the top two floors of Terrace Plaza, these market rate apartments have excellent views of downtown Muskegon and Muskegon Lake. Enjoy Amazing Views of Muskegon Lake and downtown Muskegon from one of the tallest buildings
Beautiful, Modern & Newer Downtown Living in Muskegon close to all this eccentric city has to offer! Loft Style 2 bedroom Floorplans- Different options to choose from all come with balconies and some with breathtaking water views!
The Leonard - Muskegon's Newest High-rise! This new, prestigious, multi-use property in a prime location on the corner of West Western Avenue and Second Street in Downtown Muskegon. Great restaurant/retail/office location with plenty of parking on the site and in the immediate area. This property contains twenty-four residential apartments on floors three thru six, one floor of office space and
Quality living starts at the renovated Hackley Union Bank. Highpoint Flats offers exceptional views, superior amenities, and direct access to Muskegon’s downtown restaurants/bars.
Upstairs 2 bedroom apartment. Very spacious with lots of storage! Comes with a stove and fridge. Tenant pays for gas and electric.Move In Costs:$40 Application Fee (per adult)First Month's RentSecurity Deposit (same as rent amount)$60 Administration Fee**In order to qualify, your credit score needs to be 600 or higher. Income needs to be 2.5 times the rent
Spacious 2 bedroom main floor apartment. Fresh paint and new flooring throughout. Large kitchen comes with a stove and fridge. Tenant pays for gas and electric.Move in Costs:$40 Application Fee (for each adult)First Months RentSecurity Deposit (same as rent amount)$60 Administration Fee**In order to qualify, your credit score needs to be 600 or higher. Income
1625 Park St - Unit 2 is a second-level, one-bedroom, one-bath apartment in Muskegon, MI featuring an open layout that maximizes living space and flow. The unit is offered without appliances, allowing you to personalize the kitchen with your preferred selections. Located on the second floor, the layout provides defined living and sleeping areas suitable for flexible furnishing arrangements.
Nearly New Construction. This house does it all! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, full kitchen and a laundry room. Single stall garage and shed. On trend design finishes- this house is waiting for you to make it a home.
2 bedroom, main floor apartment. Located across from Nelson School. Wood flooring throughout. Tenant pays for gas and electricity. Pets may be considered on a case by case basis with an additional fee. Move In Costs:$40 Application Fee (per adult)First Month's RentSecurity Deposit (same as rent amount)$60 Administration Fee**In order to qualify,
2-BEDROOM UPSTAIRS APARTMENT — MUSKEGON 1160 Sanford St, Muskegon, MI $1,250/month — UTILITIES INCLUDED! HEAT • ELECTRIC • WATER • TRASH INCLUDED CAT FRIENDLY AVAILABLE NOW Space, convenience, and a great location for an active Muskegon lifestyle. This spacious 2-bedroom upstairs apartment is within walking or biking distance of Downtown Muskegon, putting
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