Best Neighborhoods in Lansing, MI

WeaponizingArchitecture, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you thinking of moving to Lansing, Michigan soon? You’re not alone! Recently, Lansing has experienced significant growth and revitalization. Founded in 1835, Lansing was originally designed as a hub for government and industry. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving city with a population of approximately 118,000 residents.

If you're contemplating a move to this up-and-coming city, researching the best neighborhood to fit your lifestyle is crucial. In this guide, we at U-Haul offer an overview of Lansing, present some quick facts about living here, and highlight the top neighborhoods in the area.

Whether you're in search of a family-friendly community, a vibrant urban scene, or a peaceful suburban retreat, Lansing has what you need.

Living in Lansing: A Quick Overview

  • Housing Costs: Lansing has a variety of neighborhoods with varying housing costs - though housing costs are typically lower than the national average. From more affordable options like Old Town and Eastside to higher-end areas like Groesbeck and Moores Park, there's something for everyone.
  • Demographics: Lansing is home to a diverse population of around 117,000 people. The city boasts a mix of families, students, young professionals, and retirees, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.
  • Weather and Climate: Situated in central Michigan, Lansing experiences all four seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid. The city's location allows for convenient access to other major cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids.
  • Employment Info: Lansing is known for its steadily improving job market, with opportunities in various industries such as government, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Major employers include Michigan State University, General Motors, and Sparrow Health System.
  • Cost of Living: Lansing offers a notably low cost of living compared to other cities in the United States. Housing, transportation, and healthcare expenses are generally affordable, making it an attractive place to live.

Nine of the Best Neighborhoods in Lansing, MI

East Lansing

Home of Michigan State University, East Lansing is a vibrant, diverse community with something for everyone. As a relatively large neighborhood (the population is over 40,000), you'll find a mix of suburban and urban amenities. Enjoy the variety of restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and highly rated public schools. Whether you’re a young professional looking for an exciting place to settle or a family looking for a safe, yet vibrant place to live in, East Lansing might be the right choice for you.

Old Town

The historic and cultural hub of Lansing, Old Town features plenty of charm, vintage vibes and a solid art scene. Many of the homes in this area feature 1900s Victorian architecture and are just a short walk from Old Town shopping and dining. Given the neighborhood’s embrace of arts, culture, and overall quirkiness, you’ll find it’s a solid place to live for young professionals and creatives. Despite the neighborhood itself being walkable, you’ll likely require a car to get to some amenities, like large retailers and big-brand stores.

Kremerbi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Delta Township

For a more suburban vibe, Delta Township on the west side of Lansing might be just what you’re looking for. A high-demand area, Delta Township offers spacious homes, green spaces, quality schools, and an overall quiet suburban lifestyle that families will enjoy. Home prices here are on the higher side, however, and cars are typically needed for daily commuting. There is a wide variety of home styles available, including condos, bungalows, and large single-family homes.

Moores Park

Nestled along the Grand River, Moores Park is a peaceful, residential neighborhood known for its 20th-century homes. The area offers a diverse range of housing options, from cozy single-story ranches to spacious two-story suburban homes. At the heart of the neighborhood is Moores Park, a local favorite featuring the historic Moores Park Pool and access to the Lansing River Trail, perfect for outdoor recreation. Residents also enjoy convenient transportation with service from the Capital Area Transit Authority (CATA) bus system, making commuting a breeze.

Grand Ledge

One of the Lansing suburbs, Grand Ledge is a sought-after community, especially popular with families and young professionals. With its welcoming, suburban atmosphere, most residents here are homeowners, enjoying a close-knit, residential feel. The area is also known for its highly rated schools and walkability, which further enhance its appeal for those with children. While not technically part of Lansing, its proximity makes Grand Ledge a prime choice for anyone looking for a convenient and family-friendly place to live near the city.

Groesbeck Neighborhood

Located in northeast Lansing, Groesbeck is a well-situated neighborhood offering quick access to U.S. 127, making downtown and other parts of the city easily reachable for commuters. This desirable suburban area is known for its tree-lined streets, wide sidewalks, and abundant parks, creating a welcoming environment. With nearby shopping options and a reputation for safety, Groesbeck is especially appealing to families seeking a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. While it's quieter and more suited to families, its charm makes it a smart choice for anyone looking for suburban living.

Scott.merryfield, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Okemos

Okemos, a Lansing suburb located on the southeastern edge of town, lies about eight miles from downtown and is widely regarded as one of the best places to live, not only in Lansing but throughout Michigan. Known for its safety, top-rated schools, diverse dining options, and abundant green spaces, Okemos offers an exceptional quality of life. Its proximity to Michigan State University also makes it an attractive option for Spartan students and staff. Housing options range from charming colonial-style homes to ranch houses and modern condos, often nestled within large, well-planned subdivisions.

Colonial Village

For a more affordable, centrally located neighborhood in Lansing, check out Colonial Village in southwest Lansing. This is considered a tight-knit community, where neighbors typically know one another and take pride in their neighborhood. The central location also lends itself to convenient commutes, particularly to downtown Lansing and MSU. You’ll find many well-maintained, early-to-mid-century homes in Colonial Village.

Forest View

Nestled in southeast Lansing, Forest View is a suitable place for, you guessed it, forest views. This neighborhood features towering shade trees and tons of green space, as well as proximity to Hawk Island Park and Lansing River Trail. This is a solid option if outdoor recreation is important to you. Forest View – which is just south of East Lansing and only a short drive from downtown – overall offers a family-friendly feel, an elementary school, and quick access to other parts of town via I–496.

Moving to Lansing, MI with U-Box® Containers

Ready to make one of these Lansing neighborhoods your new home? Consider using U-Box portable storage and moving containers for a convenient and affordable moving solution. With flexible delivery options, U-Box makes both local and long-distance moves easy. You can choose to store the containers at your location or ours, and we’ll ship them whenever you're ready. Whether you're moving to a house, apartment, or need temporary storage, U-Box containers can be kept at your residence or in one of our clean, secure storage facilities while you settle into your new neighborhood. Moving has never been simpler!

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