Virginia City Highlands: South Reno’s Hidden Gem for Acreage Living

By Carson Long, South Reno & Lake Tahoe Real Estate Agent with Compass

THE BEST-KEPT SECRET IN SOUTH RENO

If you’ve been searching for space, privacy, and acreage near Reno, you’ve probably noticed how South Reno has become one of the most desirable (and fastest-growing) areas in Northern Nevada. Communities like ArrowCreek, Montreux, and Damonte Ranch have filled in with luxury homes — but if you want real land, there’s only one place left where it’s still affordable: Virginia City Highlands.

Tucked along Geiger Grade (Highway 341), Virginia City Highlands offers rural Nevada living just 15–25 minutes from South Reno. It’s the perfect mix of open space and city convenience — and it’s one of the last places near Reno where you can buy 1+ acre lots under $100,000.

ACREAGE LIVING JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM TOWN

Virginia City Highlands sits between South Reno and Virginia City — high enough for big views, but close enough for daily commuting.

Here’s how long it takes to reach major destinations from most homes in the Highlands:

That short drive up Geiger Grade (Highway 341) is a small trade-off for the freedom and space you gain — and thanks to recent road improvements, it’s a smooth, well-maintained commute year-round.

When you compare that to driving from Spanish Springs to Downtown Reno, your commute time is nearly identical, but your lot size is 5–10x larger in Virginia City Highlands.

HOME PRICES AND LAND VALUES IN VIRGINIA CITY HIGHLANDS

While much of South Reno has shifted toward smaller lots and master-planned communities, Virginia City Highlands remains one of the last affordable acreage markets near the city.

For buyers who want elbow room and equity potential, Virginia City Highlands offers unmatched value. In South Reno’s gated communities, you might pay over $1 million for a quarter-acre lot — here, that same investment can get you a custom home on five acres.

LOT SIZES AND HOME STYLES

One of the biggest draws of Virginia City Highlands is variety — from older ranch homes to modern mountain estates.

You’ll find:

•  Ranch-Style Homes: Single-level layouts with covered porches and horse setups.

•  Custom Estates: Contemporary or rustic-modern builds with sweeping Sierra views.

•  Raw Land: Open, buildable parcels ready for your dream home or workshop.

Most lots range from 1 to 5 acres, with some extending up to 10+ acres. Many properties have private wells, septic systems, and propane, keeping monthly costs low and giving owners more independence.

THE GEIGER GRADE COMMUTE: SCENIC AND SIMPLE

Driving Geiger Grade is a part of daily life for Virginia City Highlands residents — and it’s a big reason the community has stayed peaceful and spacious.

The road climbs gradually from the edge of South Reno, offering panoramic views of the Truckee Meadows and Mount Rose. The drive is well-paved, plowed in winter, and typically 15–25 minutes depending on where you live within the Highlands.

While some buyers are initially hesitant about the hill, most find it’s a fair trade-off for owning real land — and the views make it one of the most scenic commutes in Northern Nevada.

Plus, compared to Spanish Springs, where traffic can easily push commute times past 30 minutes, Virginia City Highlands offers similar convenience with far more privacy and property size.

WHY BUYERS LOVE VIRGINIA CITY HIGHLANDS

Acreage You Can Still Afford:
One of the last areas near South Reno where you can find 1+ acres under $100K.

Freedom and Flexibility:
No strict HOAs. Bring your horses, RVs, or build a shop — it’s your land, your way.

Close Yet Quiet:
15–30 minutes to major South Reno amenities, yet far enough to enjoy peace and space.

Investment Value:
Acreage this close to Reno is disappearing fast. Values are projected to keep rising as South Reno expands southward.

True Nevada Lifestyle:
Panoramic views, privacy, and the open-country feel that defines the Reno-Tahoe region.

VIRGINIA CITY HIGHLANDS VS. OTHER SOUTH RENO NEIGHBORHOODS

As you can see, Virginia City Highlands gives you the best of both worlds — more land, similar commute times, and lower prices than almost anywhere else in the Reno area.

WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR

•  Horse owners and hobby farmers

•  Buyers seeking privacy and open views

•  Custom home builders or investors

•  Remote workers craving peace without isolation

•  Contractors and DIYers wanting room for shops or garages

FINAL THOUGHTS: WHY I RECOMMEND VIRGINIA CITY HIGHLANDS

Virginia City Highlands is South Reno’s last frontier for affordable acreage — offering true country living just minutes from city life.
You’ll enjoy more land, more freedom, and a commute comparable to other popular suburbs — all at a fraction of the price.

As a South Reno real estate expert, I help clients every year find the perfect property here — whether it’s a 1-acre build site or a 10-acre ranch with 360° views.

Now is the time to explore this rare pocket of Reno before it’s discovered by everyone else.

FAQ: VIRGINIA CITY HIGHLANDS, RENO NV

Can you still buy land under $100K in Virginia City Highlands?
Yes — many parcels between 1–2 acres still sell for well under $100,000, making it one of the last acreage bargains near Reno.

Is the commute difficult up Geiger Grade?
Not at all. The road is paved, maintained, and scenic. Travel times are typically 20–30 minutes to most of South Reno — similar to living in Spanish Springs. Like everywhere in Northern Nevada, you need to watch for snow and ice in the winter time. 

Are there HOAs or restrictions?
Most of Virginia City Highlands is non-HOA, offering more flexibility for building, animals, or adding structures.

What utilities are common?
Most homes use well and septic, with propane for heating — giving owners independence from city utilities.

WORK WITH A LOCAL EXPERT

Carson Long | South Reno and Lake Tahoe Realtor | Compass

Call/Text: (775) 555-1234
Visit: RenoLuxLiving.com
Email: C[email protected]