$517,414Average Value$324Average Price per Sq Ft16Homes For Sale
Where college town meets commercial hub
When people think of Reno, Nevada, they may first imagine casino gambling and skiing near Lake Tahoe. What often goes under the radar is the city’s vibrant college-town atmosphere, best exemplified by the vast West University neighborhood. Realtor Joe Hanich with eXp Realty, who lives in the neighborhood, says, “It’s a great neighborhood just west of the University of Nevada (UNR). This neighborhood has the largest off-leash dog park in Reno, some of the best mountain biking is just weeks away and you’re not going to want to miss the Bighorn Tavern.” Within this large neighborhood, the state’s flagship public university forms a miniature city of its own, while the neighborhood is also home to several science centers, parks, shopping centers and homes with a welcoming variety of aesthetics and prices. From the Great Reno Balloon Race to performances by legendary comedians and musicians at the nearby Reno Events Center, there’s always something going on in this bustling college quarter.
Residential areas built into the mountains of West University provide top tier views.
An iconic row of homes overlooks Reno from Hacienda Way in the West University neighborhood.
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Housing and hillside views
West University is much more than the home of a sprawling college campus; it’s also home to nearly 4,000 homes, with 1973 being the median year of construction. Housing stock varies from condos near the UNR campus to ranch-style and custom-build houses nearing a million dollars in value. The interior of West University consists of a maze of winding residential streets branching off into smaller “drives,” “ways,” and “lanes.” These streets tend to be lined with single-story residences, small front lawns, two-car driveways and the greenery of trees and shrubs. Hanich says, “Real estate wise, it has a little bit of everything. Just because this area has developed over the course of 70 years, you’re seeing tons of different home styles, and there’s so much potential to make it your own.” Housing prices hover between $155,000 to around $1 million, with condos offering competitive prices for new homebuyers and larger single-family homes filling out the middle and upper tiers of that range. Hillside communities with views of the entire Reno Basin can be found throughout West University, enabling residents to take in Reno’s abundant natural scenery.
Stone accents are abundant in West University.
Brick homes are a classic home style in West University.
Single family ranch style homes are everywhere in West University.
Three car garages are common in West University.
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Strong education in West University
Students can attend Mamie Towles Elementary School, given a B-plus by Niche, as well as the B-plus-rated Archie Clayton Middle School and the A-rated Reno High School. More pertinent to locals and students alike is the University of Nevada, Reno, which has been Nevada’s primary public university since its founding in 1874. This college’s Donald W. Reynolds School of Journalism at the university boasts six Pulitzer Prize winners among its alumni, while its school also features strong football and basketball programs. The campus is home to a planetarium, an art museum, the Mackay Stadium and several other landmarks open for visits from the public, especially for Wolf Pack Division I football games.
The University of Nevada, Reno is a cultural epicenter in West University and Reno at large.
At the epicenter of West University is Mackay Stadium, home to UNR Football.
John Mackay is a name you'll see just about everywhere in West University.
The Student Union at UNR in West University is full of eateries and local events for students.
Grace Warner Elementary School is tucked conveniently in the neighborhood of West University.
Mamie Towles Elementary School in West University is located in a highly desirable part of Reno.
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Balloons and botanical gardens at West University's parks
Perhaps the year’s most exciting event is the annual Great Reno Balloon Race — the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event. This three-day event, held every September since 1982, fills the Reno sky with hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons. Around 150,000 spectators attend this annual event at West University’s 580-acre Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. This park is also home to the Wilbur D. May Museum – a repository of natural history – and its arboretum and botanical gardens, as well several trails that loop around the park’s vast fields. Hanich says, “North of the McCarran Loop, you’ve got softball fields, kickball fields, frisbee golf, a ton of hiking and mountain biking, and those trails giving you cool views of the city’s downtown. There are over 50 different trails for hiking and mountain biking, and it’s also great for dogs.” West University is also home to the 13-acre University Ridge Park, a popular workout destination known for having one of Reno’s best panoramic city views, and the Oxbow Nature Study Area, a 22-acre conservation area with plenty of trails for nature-immersive hiking.
Whitaker Park is a great break from the Urban areas in West University.
Melody Lane Park in West University offers stunning views of Reno and the mountains.
University Ridge Park in West University is known for having the best views you can get of Reno.
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is by far the biggest outdoor space in Reno.
The dog park in West University is the largest off-leash zone in Reno.
West University has numerous constructed wetlands perfect for tranquil strolls near home.
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Cuisine on and off-campus
West University is located between the UNR campus and the shopping centers along McCarran Boulevard, situating residents near a varied shopping scene. The Laughing Planet is a popular destination for students and locals due to its health food menu, while Archie's offers UNR sports fans a venue to root for their team during football season. Buzzed Coffee is a mainstay for those who need some extra morning energy, while Insomnia Cookies delivers students and locals late-night sweet treats for their guilty pleasure. With Raley’s, Safeway and Walmart Supercenter all nearby, residents are never too far from picking up their daily needs.
Frequented by University students, Laughing Planet resides directly adjacent to UNR in West University.
Laughing Planet is known for their healthy cuisine options in West University.
Rick's Pizza & Beer is a popular sports bar in the heart of West University.
Insomnia Cookies in West University is unrivaled in tasty baked goods.
Archie's is a classic West University sports bar that is always full during University games.
Enjoy a morning coffee on the patio from Buzzed Coffee located in West University.
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Limited parking near the University makes public transportation key in West University.
Roaming throughout Reno
West University is located just 2 miles from downtown Reno and its entertainment scene, accessible within an approximately 5-minute drive or a bus ride of less than 20 minutes. Likewise, the Reno-Tahoe International Airport is a mere 12-minute drive to the southeast.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jordan Ames,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Oxbow Nature Study Area
Hiking
Dick Taylor Memorial Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Grills
University Ridge Park
Basketball
Grills
Picnic Area
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
Fishing
Grills
Picnic Area
Whitaker Park
Dog Park
Grills
Picnic Area
Lake Park
Lake
Picnic Area
Trails
Eighth Street Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Multi-Purpose Field
Transit
Airport
Reno/Tahoe International
27 min drive
Bus
Selmi Dr And Clear Acre Ln
Bus
Clear Acre Lane And Selmi Drive
Bus
N Virginia Street And N Mccarran Boulevard
Bus
W 7th Street And Washington Street
Bus
W 7th Street And Canal Street
Bus
E 9th Street And Wells Avenue & County Offices
Bus
Lawlor Station
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West University
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West University, Reno sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in West University, Reno over the last 12 months is $469,566, down 1% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Rare LEGAL 5-bedroom home steps from UNR w/strong rental history & tenant through July 2026. A full gut $45K basement remodel completed 1/2025, legally adding 2 bedrooms, bonus kitchenette, & living area. Taxes only $965! Large lot & backyard offer ADU potential for even greater revenue potential (w/permit). Great income property w/immediate cash flow. The seller is only selling to do a 1031
Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings in the living room, open kitchen with breakfast bar, separate laundry room and 2 bedrooms at opposite ends of home. HOA includes a pool, recreation room, and basketball court. Gated community conveniently located near the freeway, shopping centers, and plenty of restaurants to choose from. Close to the University and downtown. Across the street from pool and
This captivating historic Victorian building is located in desirable NW Reno 1 block from UNR. It has 13 unique apartments from small to quite large. It is ideal for students & others & is walking distance to UNR, downtown Reno, restaurants & coffee shops. Many improvements have been done in the past few years including some LVP flooring, new exterior paint, plumbing upgrades, new door locks, &
At The View Luxury Apartments, apartment homes area designed for exquisite tastes and to exacting standards with all the amenities and features you would expect in a custom residence. Select floorplans offer breathtaking views of scenic mountains and downtown city lights. Elevate your lifestyle at The View Luxury Apartments. Rental prices are subject to change without notice.
Available May 9th!!!! Charming Single-Story Gem in the Heart of Reno. This cozy home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Welcome to this delightful home, perfectly nestled in a prime central Reno location! Offering 3 comfortable bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this cozy residence effortlessly combines comfort, convenience, and character. Step into the inviting kitchen, where you'll find
Park Place is designed with the needs of today’s college student in mind. Experience the difference in Reno’s new definition of luxury student living. With the largest student living fitness center in Reno, you won’t need to travel back and forth to campus. We also offer a resort-style pool, hot tub, and grilling stations for your enjoyment. The great room and cyber café in the clubhouse provides
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jordan Ames,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
21,078
Median Age
28
Population Density
7 ppl/acre
Population under 18
23.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
10.3%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$53,865
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$72,697
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
87.9%
On par with the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
34.7%
Advanced Degrees
13.4%
% Population in Labor Force
71.8%
Above the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
6''
Average Winter Low Temperature
26°F
Average Summer High Temperature
93°F
Annual Snowfall
24''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
60/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
59/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
40/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
