Living in Las Vegas, Nevada, has been a whirlwind of an experience for me. Having spent 8 years in this lively and easy-going city, I’ve been enthralled by its unique charm. With around 630,000 residents, the iconic Vegas strip isn’t just a tourist hotspot; it’s integrated into our daily life. The nightlife, as you might expect, is a vibrant blend of restaurants, shows, and music venues. This big city feel is surprisingly manageable and non-overwhelming. Based on my personal list of honest pros and cons, and personal experience, I’ve gathered insights worth reading if you’re considering moving to this glitzy, glam my, and fabulous city.
Las Vegas is among the fastest growing areas in the United States, with a population increasing by 2% annually. Since its founding in 1905, it has transformed immensely. If you’re wondering what the deal with Las Vegas is, this article might help. I’ve loved calling Sin City my home for two years before I left for a job in Washington DC. The employment opportunities here are vast, but be mindful of the recession. As for Con #8, Las Vegas can pulse with a vibrant heartbeat of activities, making it a city where certain personalities will thrive. By the end of this list, you’ll know if Las Vegas is a good fit for you or not.
Pros & Cons of Living in Las Vegas
In the Local Living Series, we delve into the Pros & Cons of Living in Las Vegas, offering locals and potential movers honest insights into life in this specific city. Our approach is comprehensive, providing detailed pros and cons lists to help you make an informed decision about moving to Sin City. If you’re wondering whether to move, you’ve found the right page. Our format cuts through the fluff, giving you direct pro and con points. For any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to our author or team; we’re here to connect you with the right person to guide your decision, ensuring you’re not wasting time with generic information.
Let’s cover the pros of living in Las Vegas first
Low cost of living
In the midst of exploring the Pros & Cons of Living in Las Vegas, a notable aspect that often catches many by surprise is the low cost of living. Las Vegas, known for its great amenities and being a sizable city, maintains a relatively reasonable cost of living. It’s somewhat counterintuitive, considering the city’s vibrant lifestyle, but by and large, living expenses are only about 3% higher than the national average. This is striking, especially when you consider its half a million residents.
For instance, those renting a two-bedroom apartment in Las Vegas are typically paying around $1,400 per month, which is quite manageable. The average cost of a home stands at about $364,000, making buying a viable option to consider. When you compare this to a similarly-sized population city like Portland, Oregon, where costs are 29% higher, the affordability of Las Vegas becomes even more apparent. From my firsthand experience, Las Vegas is definitely an affordable place to live.
There’s never a shortage of things to do
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In Las Vegas, when it comes to moving or visiting, there’s never a shortage of things to do, offering a plethora of places that are open 24/7. Whether you want to catch a show at the Smith Center, enjoy live music, try your luck at a casino, dive into the party scene, or just check out the Strip and Fremont Street, the nightlife is abundant. The list of events is never-ending, ensuring there’s no reason to be bored in this vibrant city.
The food scene
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Las Vegas’ food scene is surprisingly solid, arguably among the best for a city of its size, largely thanks to its status as a tourist hub. Along the Vegas Strip, you’ll find world-class restaurants peppered every other block, many of which are big-name establishments originated from larger cities like New York. This access to incredible food makes living here easy; you’ll never go hungry in this gastronomic haven. For those considering a move to the Southwest and weighing their options, exploring the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in New Mexico can offer a detailed comparison to help make a more informed decision.
There’s no state income tax
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There’s no state income tax in Nevada, making it one of only 9 states in America where residents enjoy this benefit. This means your take-home pay is slightly more compared to living in a state with income tax. While there is a sales tax of 4.6%, coupled with Clark County’s 3.78%, you end up paying a total of 8.38%. Living in Vegas, this aspect greatly relates to affordability, especially when considering taxes on gambling winnings, which are higher than the average. The significant difference in your paycheck is something I’ve loved about living here. Additionally, property taxes in Nevada are among the lowest in the country, thanks to the consumer-based tax system prevalent in the state.
Access to outdoor recreation
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As an adventure nut, enjoying daily life in Las Vegas comes with its perks, including a ton of great places to choose from for outdoor activities. From the stunning Red Rock and Lake Mead to Mount Charleston and Valley of Fire, not to mention the Colorado River, there’s no shortage of breathtaking spots. Plus, renowned national parks like Bryce Canyon and Zion are just two hours away by drive. Even within the city limits, there are numerous local trails and parks offering a quick escape to nature. For those contemplating a move to or within the Southwest, gaining insights into the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Arizona can offer a comprehensive perspective on what to expect, enhancing your ability to make an informed decision.
The Airport
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McCarran International Airport, one of the airports that serve Las Vegas, ranks as the 7th busiest in America. Whether for travel or work, having an effective international airport within the city limits is non-negotiable, and thankfully, McCarran has always delivered.
Traffic isn’t too bad
In comparison to the traffic nightmare in many cities I’ve lived in, I can confidently say that Vegas’ traffic isn’t too bad. A trip across town is seldom longer than 30-45 minutes, and it’s hardly worth a mention in daily conversations.
Cons of Living in Las Vegas
The summer heat
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Summers in Las Vegas can be brutal, with average temperatures often soaring to 107°. Unlike most US cities, where summer is for outdoors and socializing, in Vegas, stepping outside during summer days can feel like walking into a furnace. Most residents take advantage of the upside to this con: the rest of the year is pleasant, perfect for hiking and enjoying evenings in the park, while others across America are huddled inside during winter.
The city lacks community charm
In my personal experience, Las Vegas often lacks that community charm you might find elsewhere. It’s a city where folks often keep to themselves, partly because it’s a transient city with many not keen on sticking around or getting to know their neighbors. People here, especially those who chose to move during the pandemic, may find the tide is slowly shifting. There are new faces around the city, and it’s becoming easier to make friends if you’re willing to put yourself out there. For those contemplating a move to a city with a rich cultural tapestry and vibrant community life, exploring the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in New Orleans might provide a glimpse into what could be a significantly different living experience.
The school system
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Moving to Las Vegas with kids? Brace yourself, as the schools here are considered among the worst in the country. As of 2018, Nevada’s education system was rated low in America. Classrooms are often crowded, and superintendents have been hired and dismissed at an alarming speed, with students ultimately paying the price. Plainly, with 664 schools and a graduation rate far from 100%, the poor school system is a major reason to consider moving out if you can’t take the gamble.
Job opportunities
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In terms of job opportunities, Vegas can sometimes leave much to be desired. When I moved here, I didn’t have a job lined up, and my friends often regaled me with long tales of the challenge of finding a job while living here. The majority of the Las Vegas economy is dependent on tourism, entertainment, and the hospitality industry, meaning the workforce is heavily skewed towards low paying jobs that don’t require a college education. If you’re moving here with hopes of securing a gig in technology, medicine, or education, you might find yourself in a challenging spot, as these are not the big industries in Vegas. For those considering a move to a place with a different economic landscape and lifestyle, getting familiar with the Honest Pros & Cons Of Living In Wyoming could offer valuable insights into a state that contrasts sharply with Nevada in many aspects.
Lack of public transportation
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Frankly, to live comfortably in Las Vegas, having a car is almost a necessity. The bus system is sure to be there, but it’s not efficient and substantially increases commute time.
Lack of greenery
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Living in Las Vegas, renowned for its vibrant lights and dynamic lifestyle, has its unique challenges, notably the lack of greenery. This arid, desert climate is a stark contrast to lush areas like the Pacific Northwest, making it the hardest adjustment for someone like me who moved here. Personally, adapting to the absence of natural green spaces meant learning to embrace the city’s unique charm. While Las Vegas is inexpensive compared to other cities, the trade-off in environmental features can be significant. For those who consider green spaces non-negotiable, this aspect of Las Vegas living requires careful consideration and a bit of creative adaptation.
You won’t see the stars
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In discussing the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Las Vegas, an often overlooked aspect is the fact that you won’t see the stars as clearly. This city, famously known as the brightest spot on earth when viewed from space, as noted by NASA, offers an electrifying skyline that unfortunately overshadows the natural celestial beauty. The intense illumination from the downtown core means that to truly gaze at the stars, one must drive further away from the city’s glow. For stargazers and those who find tranquility in the night sky, this can be a subtle yet significant drawback of living in Las Vegas. The city’s dazzling lights, while a spectacle, diminish the simple pleasure of star-gazing, requiring residents to seek out darker skies beyond the city’s bounds.
Las Vegas – Quick Glance
- Population: 2.27 million metro area, 642,000 city proper
- Time zone: Pacific Standard
- Elevation: 2001 ft (610m) along Las Vegas Boulevard (aka “The Strip”)
- Climate: arid desert, hot and dry
- Median home price in 2024: $386,000
- Average rent for 1 bedroom apartment in 2024: $1,239
- Violent crime rate in 2024: about 600 per 100,000, which is on the high side
- Main industry: tourism and gambling
Pro #1: It’s affordable
A key aspect of Las Vegas living that often comes as a pleasant shock to newcomers is how affordable it is. Contrary to the glitz and glamour associated with spots like Wet Republic, the overall cost of living in this city is surprisingly manageable. As of February 2024, the median home price in Las Vegas was around $445,000, just below the national average of $386,000. This makes Vegas not only a big and desirable city but also one where housing costs are below average. When it comes to everyday living, rent prices are comparable to other non-coastal cities, and while utilities and gas might be on the higher side, you’ll find that restaurant prices off the Strip are much more wallet-friendly. Compared to noticeably expensive cities like LA or DC, Las Vegas stands out as a very affordable place to live, a stark contrast to the pre-pandemic era when prices were climbing. For those curious about the broader aspects of residing in this vibrant city, delving into the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Nashville could provide a deeper understanding of what life here truly entails, beyond the surface-level perceptions.
Con #1: Salaries are lower than most other major cities
In the landscape of Las Vegas, a point that often surfaces is that salaries are lower than most other major cities, especially for professional positions. When considering or taking a job here, it’s crucial to understand that you won’t make as much in a comparable position as you might in places like San Diego or New York. This discrepancy is not just limited to Vegas but extends to many non-coastal cities as well. However, this is somewhat balanced by the low cost of living. While your salary may be lower, the cost-effective nature of the city allows for more money to stay in your bank at the end of the month.
For those working in the city’s more vibrant sectors, like a nightclub, bar on the Strip, or a pool bar, there’s a different financial dynamic. These venues, known for their luxurious day rental cabanas and high-priced bottle service, can be a killing for those in the service industry, especially for the girls working in Vegas nightclubs. The tips and commissions can significantly augment a lower base salary, offering a unique financial advantage over many major coastal cities. This aspect is vital to strike a balance when evaluating the financial pros and cons of living in Las Vegas.
Con #2: Poor quality public schools
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In an honest assessment of living in Las Vegas, one significant drawback that often comes to light is the poor quality of public schools. Nevada is not known for an amazing education system, as it ranks 39th among the 50 states in terms of public education. This is a concerning fact for families considering a move here. Despite some improvement since the early 2010s, when the state was ranking dead last in standardized test scores and academic standards, challenges remain. There is a notable lack of early childhood education options, and while there are some excellent private and charter schools, the district schools, especially in less wealthy areas, don’t always equate to great schools. For those contemplating a move to the Pacific Northwest and weighing their educational options, exploring the HONEST Pros and Cons of Living in Vancouver, Washington might offer insight into a different community’s approach to public education and overall living conditions.
General perception suggests that Las Vegas doesn’t value education as much as other major cities, partly due to the nature of its economy. Many high-paying job opportunities in Vegas historically didn’t need extensive education, focusing more on the hospitality sector. However, this scenario is changing as more companies move to Las Vegas, creating additional non-hospitality jobs. For families, this shift might mean reconsidering whether Las Vegas is the best place for their children if relying solely on the district public school system.
Pro #3: Amazing restaurants
Las Vegas is not just about dazzling lights and casinos; it’s also home to some of the best restaurants in the world, both on the Strip and off Strip. There’s no shortage of amazing restaurants here, ready to satisfy your taste buds with a variety that ranges from world-renowned chefs operating high-end establishments to more local joints offering every cuisine imaginable. While the city is known for its luxurious dining options, the food choices are as eclectic as its population, featuring not just excellent Mexican food but also a surprisingly large Chinatown with dozens of Chinese restaurants and other East Asian cuisines.
In recent years, craft breweries have sprung up since 2010, adding to the city’s culinary diversity. A favorite among locals is Hash House a Go Go, near the UNLV campus, known for its hearty portions and unique take on traditional fare. For those craving a taste of Germany, there’s an exact replica of Hofbrauhaus Munich, which in my opinion, might even be better than the original. Whether you’re looking for upscale dining or a cozy local spot, Las Vegas ensures your culinary experiences are always satisfied.
Con #3: Crime rate
In discussing the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Las Vegas, the crime rate is a crucial factor. While Las Vegas doesn’t top the list of the most dangerous cities in the US, it does rank above average for violent crime, with incidents like muggings and robberies not being uncommon. However, it’s relatively safer than cities like St. Louis or Philadelphia. Safety often comes down to the neighborhood you choose to live and work in. For instance, North Las Vegas is known to be more economically depressed with a higher crime rate compared to the southern part of the city, where home prices are considerably higher. It’s important to do thorough research before renting or purchasing a home in Las Vegas, but you can reasonably expect to find areas that are safe and well-maintained.
Pro #4: The weather
The weather in Las Vegas is a mixed bag, with about 8 months of perfect conditions from mid-September to the end of May, where daytime highs stay below 100 degrees (38 C). During this period, being outside under the sun is enjoyable, though one should always be mindful of the risk of heat stroke given its location in the middle of the desert. The lack of humidity makes even a 95 degree day feel more comfortable than an 80 degree day in Miami. From October to April, the city experiences warm days and borderline chilly evenings. Winters here are cold but without the snow that burdens many other American cities. Unlike South Florida or Southern California, Las Vegas’ winter is mild and manageable, and it hardly rains, with clear, sunny weather prevailing year-round. For those considering relocation and curious about the living conditions in other states, exploring the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Pennsylvania can provide a comprehensive perspective on a completely different climate, as well as social and economic environments.
Con #4: The summer weather
The summer weather in Las Vegas is often a major con for residents. During peak summer days, especially in July and August, the heat can be brutal, with average highs often over 100 degrees. Even in June, temperatures hover close to 100. The summer of 2023 saw temperatures soaring near 120 degrees, making Sin City a challenging place to be outdoors. Despite the negligible humidity, a 110 degree day (about 43 C) can feel painful to be outside. Doing tough things like I once hiked a mountain near Phoenix in 113 degree heat, and under the summer sun, it can be dangerous if you don’t regularly drink water, cover your head, and protect against the intense heat. For those who can’t handle such extremes, the Las Vegas summer might not float your boat.
Pro #5: It’s a hiker’s paradise
Contrary to the image of packed streets and casinos, Las Vegas is surprisingly a hiker’s paradise. The city, often associated with its vibrant nightlife, is actually surrounded by beautiful mountains and red rocks, unveiling a natural side that has much to offer. Popular local getaways like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just outside the city limits, are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Similarly, Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Valley of Fire State Park provide stunning landscapes for those keen on hitting the trails.
Moreover, Mount Charleston in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, which even hosts a small ski resort with snow in winter, is only about 45 minutes from central Vegas. These areas boast numerous hiking trails and epic paths that lead to the top of the highest peak in southern Nevada, nearly 12,000 ft. For anyone who loves the great outdoors, Las Vegas offers these unexpected yet amazing places to explore, far removed from the glitz and glamour of the city. For those looking to expand their horizons and considering a move to the Southeast, delving into the HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in Georgia might offer a fresh perspective on a state known for its diverse landscapes and rich history, providing a stark contrast to the desert environment of Nevada.
Con #5: Virtually non-existent public transportation
Living in Las Vegas, you’ll quickly realize that public transportation options are virtually non-existent, certainly not winning any awards. In terms of efficiency and coverage, it lags far behind cities like San Francisco, Washington DC, or Boston. While there is a bus network operated by the Regional Transit Commission (RTC) of Southern Nevada, it’s not as extensive as those in other American cities. Although there have been great improvements over the years, the system primarily serves The Strip, catering more to tourists than residents. Moreover, concerns about shady people and crime often make it a safety issue, not to mention it can be painstakingly slow.
For city residents, this means being reliant on private vehicles, Ubers, or Lyfts. This reliance on driving leads to its own major problems, such as drunk driving. Data suggests that 25% of drivers on the road on a typical Friday or Saturday night might be drunk. The city’s layout, dominated by suburban blocks, makes walking difficult, and although there are bike lanes, cycling is not a common form of transportation, especially considering the summer heat which is not ideal for such activities. All these factors contribute to Las Vegas being a car-dependent city, posing challenges for those without a vehicle.
Pro #6: Traffic is not that bad
When it comes to traffic, a common belief is that it can be a nightmare in any ever-growing city. However, in Las Vegas, traffic is not that bad, especially when compared to the gridlock often seen in other major cities. Despite being an ever-growing city, the nature of its main economy – centered around tourism and casinos that operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – means that there isn’t a true rush hour like in cities with large concentrations of offices and professional services like engineers, consultants, or insurance brokers. The city’s workforce is spread out with no central business district, leading to a scenario where there’s no particular rush hour.
However, this doesn’t mean that Interstate Highway 15 and other main arteries never get backed up. There are times of the day when highways and main roads see extra traffic, typically in the mornings and evenings. But, it’s not the kind of traffic where you consistently sit in rush hour traffic every day. This aspect of Las Vegas can come as a pleasant surprise to many, especially those accustomed to the often grueling commutes in larger metropolitan areas.
Con #6: Las Vegas has awful drivers
A notable aspect of living in Las Vegas is dealing with awful drivers, a fact reflected in the high car insurance premiums in southern Nevada, some of the highest in the country. The accident rate in the city is, frankly, flabbergasting. During my time here, I’ve witnessed more traffic accidents than at any other point in my life, and this is something many notice when visiting. Staying vigilant while driving is essential, as many drivers are not paying attention, often worse with their phones. This previous statement is compounded by the issue of drunk drivers at night, making the decision to move here something to consider carefully, as your insurance premium may go significantly up.
Pro #7: World class entertainment
World-class entertainment is a hallmark of Las Vegas, rightfully earning its reputation as the entertainment capital of the world. On any given night, you can find A-class celebrities performing at various venues, which is nothing short of astonishing. Famous artists like Celine Dion, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and many others have had residencies here, contracted to perform exclusively at a casino theater. Unlike a typical tour, where an artist travels around the country, these residencies allow the musician, magician, or comedian to stay put, offering a unique arrangement for both the performer and the audience.
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The variety of shows is diverse, from magicians like Penn and Teller to comedians like Carrot Top, and spectacular productions like Cirque du Soleil and male revues like Thunder from Down Under. There truly is something for everyone. As a resident, you also get access to free shows on The Strip. Companies like Plug In Vegas, House Seats, and Fillaseat offer services where locals can subscribe online for a monthly fee and swipe up free tickets to shows that aren’t sold out. These tickets are often used for magicians, comedians, and residencies of major artists.
With over 2 million people living in Las Vegas and dozens of concert venues, it’s a no-brainer for tour headliners to include the city in their schedules. The opportunity to see live shows is a significant perk of living here. Whether you’re a fan of music, comedy, magic, or theatrical performances, the city’s vibrant entertainment scene ensures there’s always something exciting to experience.
Con #7: Your children are introduced to the gambling scene early
In Las Vegas, the reality of your children being introduced to the gambling scene early is a part of everyday life. This exposure isn’t confined to casinos; it’s prevalent in places families frequent, like movie theaters, bowling alleys, shops, restaurants, and even food courts near concert venues. It’s a city where even a simple outing might inadvertently lead to a slot machine. As a resident, you recognize the need to keep your kids away from these elements, which is a challenging but essential aspect of raising children here. Despite the city’s allure, many people consider it not a great place to raise a family, given the poor quality of public schools and the omnipresent gambling culture. Living in Las Vegas means being constantly focused on how to properly shield your children from the debauchery that defines Sin City. It’s about finding balance and ensuring that the city’s vibrant events and activities don’t overshadow the importance of nurturing a healthy family environment.
Pro #8: Epic nightlight (and daylife)
Las Vegas, renowned as the entertainment capital of the world, offers an epic nightlife and daylife experience, often compared to popular European destinations. This nightlife capital of the United States has evolved significantly since the mid-2000s, with casinos and nightclubs that are a prize for those seeking exhilarating experiences. The introduction of casino pools has sparked a daylife trend, where an afternoon pool party transforms into a vibrant event with renowned DJs, bottle service, and a mix of hot chicks and douchebags. These nightclubs and day clubs can be super expensive and sometimes overhyped, attracting both obnoxious, drunk tourists and locals.
For a more authentic local’s nightlife experience, many head to Downtown Las Vegas or the Arts District, where speakeasies, microbreweries, and trendy bars offer a contrast to the Strip. As a local, one of my personal favorites is Stoney’s, a country bar known for its line dancing, bikini-clad bartenders, and live music that truly captures the country spirit. These experiences, though scattered across the city, showcase the diverse range of entertainment options available, ensuring that visitors and locals alike can find their own version of fun in Las Vegas.
Con #8: Recession prone due to the reliance on tourism
Living in Las Vegas, a city that is recession prone due to its heavy reliance on tourism, presents a unique economic landscape. The downside of moving to Las Vegas is its economy, which can live or die by the flow of both domestic and international tourists. The economic well-being of the city is deeply dependent on tourists flocking to gamble their hard-earned money. This characteristic makes the service industry the backbone of employment here, with most jobs being directly or indirectly tied to tourism. Historical events like the recession of 2008 and the COVID pandemic in 2020 dealt serious blows to the city, although it bounced back quickly each time.
Despite these challenges, many have loved living in Las Vegas. As an engineer who designed some of the hotels on the Strip, I’ve witnessed the city’s resilience. Las Vegas boasts the largest selection of homes and holiday rentals, often at the lowest price. Companies like MGM, which owns 569 hotels in the United States, offer Great savings online, with Good availability and great rates. You can Read hotel reviews to find the best hotel deal for your stay, whether it’s at Harrah’s or another iconic location.
However, the city’s reliance on tourism can lead to voluntary unemployment when the industry is hit hard. After years of normal operations, an event like a recession can leave many considering leaving the city. During such times, options for employment outside the service and tourism sector are limited, and unemployment benefits can run out quickly, making it a challenging situation for residents.
Pro #9: Awesome people from all over the world
One of the most captivating aspects of living in Las Vegas is the chance to meet awesome people from all over the world. This city, often seen as a transient community, attracts individuals who grew up somewhere else; finding someone actually from Las Vegas, like Jimmy Kimmel, is a rarity. My friends and colleagues here form an eclectic group—people who have come from every corner of the country and around the world, drawn by the unique opportunities and adventures this city offers. It’s easy to make good friends and have an active social life, as everyone is meeting new people and often in the same boat, concerned yet excited about forging connections in this dynamic environment.
Con #9: Also horrible people from all over the world
While Las Vegas attracts awesome people from all over the world, it’s important to acknowledge that you might also encounter some of the worst people you’ll ever meet. The city is a magnet for all sorts of individuals, including those who are only concerned with themselves and can damn well get in the way of your experience. Over time in Vegas, I’ve learned that just like any other place, there are both good people and bad people. The key is learning to filter out the bad to not obscure the potential of making good friends and enjoying the best the city has to offer.
Pro #10: National parks galore
Living in Las Vegas offers an ideal location for visiting some of America’s most beautiful national parks, with a plethora of options within a mere 5-hour drive. The proximity to these parks is a boon for nature lovers, making the city a gateway to explore more than just the urban landscape. However, a significant downside of residing in this part of the country is water scarcity. Las Vegas is tied with places like Salt Lake City in facing this environmental challenge. While the city serves as an underrated base for standard weekend getaways to various national parks, all within 5 hours or less, the looming issue of water scarcity cannot be overlooked, adding a complex layer to the decision of calling Las Vegas home.
- Death Valley: 2 hour drive
- Zion: 2.5 hour drive
- Grand Canyon: 4 hour drive
- Great Basin: 4.5 hour drive
- Joshua Tree: 4 hour drive
- Bryce Canyon: 4 hour drive
- Kings Canyon: 4.5 hour drive (to east entrance)
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Living in Las Vegas offers the unique advantage of being within a 4.5 hour drive to the east entrance of Kings Canyon, a stunning natural wonder. This proximity places residents within an 8-hour driving radius of several other national treasures, including Arches, Canyonlands, Sequoia, Yosemite, Petrified Forest, Pinnacles, and Saguaro. The area is rich with national monuments, recreation areas, national forests, and state parks, making it a haven for those who love nature, hiking, and the wilderness. Weekends can be transformed into exciting road trips exploring the diverse landscapes of Utah and the western United States. For those who live in Las Vegas and cherish the great outdoors, this accessibility is a significant benefit that should not be missed.
Con #10: Water scarcity
Water scarcity is a significant concern when living in Las Vegas, situated in the heart of the Mojave desert where it doesn’t rain often. The city primarily relies on water from the Colorado River, which is shared with multiple states. Recently, this water supply has been running dry, prompting Las Vegas to impose water restrictions on its residents. For example, having a grass yard may no longer be feasible due to these water service limitations. The city incentivizes replacing traditional lawns with desert landscaping, offering rebates for planting cactus species. This shift includes replacing public grass areas with desert flora, a massive effort undertaken by the local government to maintain low per capita water usage.
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Adapting to these changes means that the dream of a finely manicured lawn with lush plants and greenery can be difficult to achieve. Instead, residents learn to appreciate the beauty of desert flora like cacti and yuccas, which are more suitable for the arid climate. This adjustment to water scarcity and embracing a landscape not for everyone, requires a shift in perspective, appreciating the unique environment that Las Vegas offers.
Pro #11: You can fly direct to almost everywhere
A major perk of living in Las Vegas, a major vacation destination, is the ability to fly direct to almost everywhere. The city is well-connected with direct flights to numerous cities across the United States and to key international destinations like Amsterdam, London, and Seoul. Even for smaller American cities such as Sioux Falls, SD, Asheville, NC, and Omaha, NE, the accessibility from regional airports to fly direct is a significant convenience. No matter where you’re flying from, the likelihood of finding a direct flight back to your home in Las Vegas is high, making travel both easy and efficient.
Con #11: The airlines based in Las Vegas are not the best
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While living in Las Vegas, one downside is that the airlines based in the city, such as at Harry Reid International Airport, are not the best in terms of service and dependability. This airport serves as a hub for Allegiant, Frontier, Spirit, and Southwest, and while these airlines might not top the list of the best in the United States, they do provide comprehensive coverage. Southwest is generally considered a good airline and is quite dependable, as it flies to nearly every airport in the country. For those planning to move to Vegas or travel frequently, investing in a Southwest Chase Visa credit card might be a practical choice to make the most of the available airline options.
Pro #12: Your friends will always want to visit you
Living in Las Vegas means that your friends will always want to visit you. It’s one place where, once you move, your buddies and friends will frequently be in town, eager to experience the city. While you might sometimes get tired of the constant visits, you can recommend and suggest they drive for a more local experience off the Strip. This often involves a trip to places like Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire. Initially, your friends might be hesitant to stray away from the typical tourist spots, but they’ll thank you later for showing them a different side of Vegas.
Con #12: Many of your Vegas friends are going to move away
A notable aspect of living in Las Vegas is its transient community, which means that many of your Vegas friends are going to move away eventually. While some come to Las Vegas expecting to never leave, the reality is that both friends and colleagues might not settle here permanently. Though many live amazing lives in the desert, it’s reasonable to expect that a solid percentage of your personal contacts will move away at some point. This dynamic can be challenging to accept but is a part of the city’s ever-changing social landscape.
Pro #13: The desert is stunningly beautiful
One of the most underrated aspects of Las Vegas is that the desert is stunningly beautiful. The city is surrounded by mountains in all directions, with the Spring Mountains to the west often consistently covered in snow during winter. The highest peak, Mount Charleston, stands at 11,918 feet above sea level, dwarfing the Strip which is only at 2,001 feet. This is a stark contrast of nearly 10,000 feet in elevation, a comparison even more pronounced than Denver’s Rockies, whose highest peaks reach about 9,000 feet.
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Beyond the majestic mountains, the flat, brushy desert land outside the city might seem repetitive at first, but it’s home to unique Joshua trees, red rocks, and other geological formations that keep the landscape entertained with beauty. The Mojave Desert envelops the area in a serene atmosphere that’s often underestimated by those who haven’t experienced its quiet allure.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas – Final Word
In The Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas – Final Word, it’s clear that making the decision about moving to this beaming city in the desert requires a better sense of what to expect. Las Vegas is one-of-a-kind, offering amazing things that can’t be found elsewhere, but it’s also concerned with unique challenges. This article aims to give a similar experience to actually living there, helping you decide whether to move or not. If you choose to make the leap, I wish you luck; if you conclude it’s not for you, then at least this article has hopefully helped you make the right decision.
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