Mason has long been known for its rural farming atmosphere and quaint Victorian neighborhoods surrounding a vibrant downtown. A great place to live, work and raise a family, Mason is also a Tree City USA and the beauty of the City is matched only by the friendliness of its citizens.

In 1865, Mason was incorporated as a village and during the 19th century, Mason enjoyed being the center of Ingham County activity. While Lansing eventually became the state capital, Mason remained the Ingham County Seat, making Michigan the only state in the country with a capital city that is not also the county seat. Mason’s city center is the historic Ingham County Courthouse, and two historic churches are the cornerstones of the downtown courthouse square. This downtown city block is the location of numerous events, including the annual Sun Dried Music Festival in late August, seasonal Farmer’s Markets, live music, parades and holiday celebrations.

Visitors to Mason will leave with a warm and lasting impression of a well-planned, beautiful community, including a lively downtown and graceful neighborhoods full of historic character. Guests and citizens alike cherish the numerous shopping and dining opportunities in Mason, including the regionally famous Antiques District. With the newly expanded Hayhoe Riverwalk and countless City sidewalks and pedestrian paths, visitors can spend the day walking downtown and throughout the community, enjoying the sights and sounds in Mason. Newcomers to Mason will enjoy the charm of the older neighborhoods, or may also appreciate the newly built homes in convenient subdivisions still near the city center. An excellent school district and easy access to the Lansing and Jackson areas make Mason an ideal place to call home.

Fast approaching its 150th anniversary in 2015, Mason continues to grow and attract new families and businesses. During the past decade alone, nearly 700 housing units have been added to the housing inventory. There is a commercial and industrial component of Mason that, during these challenging economic times, the City has been able to maintain. Mason works in a competitive fashion by encouraging industry with State incentive tax abatements, helping to create and maintain jobs.

The Mason community continues to grow from the inside out, which utilizes much less land, maintaining the family farm environment that is a large part of our identity. With a population of more than 8,250, Mason is proud to be a healthy growing city. When visiting Mason, come by our new City Hall/Police Station so that we can assist you in any way.