Red Cedar, East Lansing,MI

When moving to East Lansing, MI, the Red Cedar neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a welcoming community atmosphere with plenty of charm. Known for its tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern homes, Red Cedar is perfect for residents who enjoy a quieter, more suburban feel while still being close to the buzz of city life. Whether you’re a student, a family, or a professional, the area provides a great balance of peaceful living and easy access to amenities.

One of the standout attractions in Red Cedar is the beautiful Red Cedar River, which runs nearby and offers scenic spots for walking, jogging, and relaxing outdoors. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, ideal for weekend picnics or casual sports. Additionally, with Michigan State University just a short drive away, residents can enjoy cultural events, sporting activities, and various dining options that the university brings to the greater East Lansing community.

Getting into Downtown East Lansing from Red Cedar is a breeze, with just a short 10 to 15-minute drive or a quick bike ride. Downtown is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, local shops, and popular restaurants, making it easy for Red Cedar residents to enjoy all the conveniences of city life without having to live right in the hustle and bustle. Overall, Red Cedar offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and accessibility, making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to East Lansing.

About 11% of the Red Cedar population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 8% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Red Cedar demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,407 residents, Red Cedar is notably smaller than many other East Lansing neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 386 people per square mile, Red Cedar offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other East Lansing neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With a lower-than-average age of 24, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Red Cedar crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Red Cedar, the median home price is $193,300, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Red Cedar can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $940, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Red Cedar combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Red Cedar can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.