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Living in Las Vegas, Nevada:
Tips for Moving and Visiting

66 local experts
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If you've been wondering what it's like to live in or visit Las Vegas, the Crowdsourced Explorer community can help. We asked 66 people living in Las Vegas what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice:

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66 comments on “Las Vegas”

Las Vegas is a very interesting city to live in. It can be tacky and over-the-top, but also beautiful if you’re into desert nature and mountains. The city is surrounded by mountains and has some of the best rock-climbing in the United States, but is also polluted with dust, gets extremely hot (48 C/118 F at max), and is expensive. Keep in mind that the valley actually includes three cities, North Las Vegas, Las Vegas, and Henderson, so look into all three!

If you’re moving to Las Vegas, you’ll need to perfect your poker face, learn to navigate more roundabouts than you ever thought possible, and get ready for conversations that start with “What hotel do you live in?” Oh, and invest in some good sunglasses – the neon lights are bright, but the future here is brighter! Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas! 🎲🌞🕶️

Living in Las Vegas is an exhilarating experience that never fails to captivate me. The city’s vibrant nightlife, endless entertainment options, and world-class dining scene make everyday life feel like an adventure. Whether it’s strolling along the famous Fremont Street Experience or indulging in the thrill of a casino, there’s never a dull moment in this electrifying city.

Jessica, says: 2023

If you are moving to Las Vegas, you need to know if you have a gambling problem this is not the place for you. We do have a lot of entertainment to enjoy! Finding a place to rent is hard, especially with all the new requirements. Your electric bill will be very high due to no competitors for the electric company. We have a water shortage so mostly rocks and dirt landscapes, and food prices are high. Other than that enjoy Sin City!

Deborah, says: 2023

There are plenty of outdoor activities in this city. Mount Charleston is just 30 min north of the city, where you can ski in the winter.

Sabina, says: 2023

Everyone does not live on the Strip. Most people live normal suburban lives. Home prices have gotten really high over the past few years. Although we have 3 months of extreme heat, we have 8-9 fantastic weather months per year. There is much more to Las Vegas than gambling. We are a very diverse state and offer something for everyone.

Caryn Hall, says: 2023

Plenty of shopping, entertainment, international cuisine, employment opportunities, churches, hospitals, schools, and housing.

George, says: 2023

If you’re moving to Las Vegas you need to really look into housing prices for buying or renting because it’s not as cheap as it used to be out here so I’d say that’s number one priority.

Heavenly, says: 2023

If you are moving to Las Vegas you must be prepared for four months of plus 100-degree heat. The rest of the year is pleasant although the winters are a little cool. There is a ski resort 45 minutes from the city. Las Vegas has some of the best restaurants in the world along with top-quality casino buffets. Las Vegas is only a five-hour drive from Los Angeles and seven National Parks. Housing is better than in urban/suburban California but is going up in price.

If you’re moving to Las Vegas, you will love the restaurant variety and good food. The weather is really hot (over 100) for about four months in the summer. It is chilly in the winter for about two months but no snow. Mark Walberg moved here for his kids and the wealthy people mostly live in Summerlin to the west of downtown and Henderson to the east. Housing prices are rising but are still much cheaper than California. There is a ski resort 45 minutes to the west.

Need to bring lots of $$… Nothing free in Las Vegas anymore. Housing has gotten silly expensive since the pandemic… May be leveling of now due to home interest rates.

James Patrick, says: 2022

Initially, the impression of the city is that it is somewhat of a barren landscape with suburbs mixed in. There are a lot of mountains, dirt, and brown houses. However, if you look close enough, you start to notice the parks. The hidden park that can only be accessed through a hike or the technical park with electronic games begins to dot the landscape. If you look closer, you can see the wash where large cement tunnels let teenagers skateboard and practice street art. Or the one overlook where the entire city is sprawled across the valley. It is the obscure places like these that make Henderson what it is.

Las Vegas is a small town in big city clothes. While often pinned as a sprawling town full of entertainment and glam, Las Vegas is quite normal and downright boring when you become a resident. Take away all of the downtown bustle and you will see that it’s just like any other small desert suburb.

Karola, says: 2020

Gambling can be fun at first, but the locals know it’s better to abstain, lest you become addicted. It’s wise to avoid driving on Las Vegas Boulevard; heavy traffic at night makes it difficult to get anywhere on time. Prepare for the oppressively hot desert summers by tinting your car windows and staying hydrated!

Sydney, says: 2020

Many times when people travel to Las Vegas, they have in mind that the only attractions are located on the strip. They will need to be aware that there are plenty of other things to do. Activities range from bowling, hiking, swimming, and shopping. Shopping is a major attraction here in Las Vegas.

Alexis, says: 2020

People who are considering moving to Las Vegas should know that there is no state tax. The cost of living is reasonable; it is not too low but not too expensive. Another reason is it has beautiful weather. Hot weather can last from May to October. Las Vegas is the city that never sleeps; a lot of things are open 24/7.

Mildred, says: 2020

Las Vegas is a unique city. The industry is focused on the Strip, but there are large neighborhoods all around. The infrastructure does not exist to support the population in the suburbs. Small businesses are rare, and there are very limited options for outdoor activities for locals. It is a nice place to visit, but it is not my favorite place to live.

People often assume the Strip is the only fun place to adventure here in Las Vegas. That is false. There are many things to do here! You can go hiking, play in the water at Lake Mead, and go off roading. Someone considering moving here should be aware of the many possibilities Las Vegas as to offer.

Ashley, says: 2020

We have 2 main areas of town where the tourists hang out. On Las Vegas Boulevard, also known as The Strip, there is a long stretch of different casinos, clubs, shops, dining and all sorts of shows to be seen. There is even a mall! Fremont is the other tourist area where there are plenty of things to do and people to see. Many locals perform on Fremont for tips as well as big named artists performing free shows in certain areas of the main road. There are also a few casinos, shops, restaurants and bars on Fremont.

Joanna, says: 2020

Before making the commitment to move to Las Vegas, NV, it is important to research living expenses in comparison to where you currently live. Another important thing to know about Las Vegas is the typical weather. During most of the year the temperature is mild, but during the summer months, the heat can be unbearable.

Clayton, says: 2020

Las Vegas is the town that never sleeps. People are overall nice and friendly, which is perhaps something that you expect from a touristy town, but in my experience they are genuine. I’ve started many friendships just from conversations with strangers in grocery stores. People also talk of the heat of the desert – but here it’s a dry heat, so that 111 degree temp doesn’t melt you in your clothes as it does in say Texas. Overall it’s a great place to live.

Deanna, says: 2020

Someone considering moving to Las Vegas should know the summers are long and hot. New Las Vegans are often surprised to find many worthwhile activities away from tourist attractions. For example, Las Vegas offers many beautiful hiking trails and has a thriving food truck scene. The temperatures in my city are excessively hot but there is always something to do!

Jaymee, says: 2020

Before considering moving to Las Vegas, you should know the crime rate is quite high. Although it can be very exciting living here, what with all of the lights and action, you must keep yourself on a tight budget if you like to gamble; do not gamble more than you can afford to lose.

Ashlyn, says: 2020

Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. The city’s main industry is tourism. However, there are many other entertainment options available that don’t involve gambling. We have museums, parks, fine dining, and plenty of area entertainment. There is something for everyone. Many resorts have multiple options for your pleasure.

William, says: 2020

During the scorching summers of Las Vegas, one activity is to wake up early on a Sunday morning, pick one of the numerous mountain trails that surround the city, and escape the heat by cooling off at a higher elevation. In the wintertime, most of the trails bring in snowfall, which perfectly complements the dry weather Vegas is known for.

Brandey, says: 2020

The city is nocturnal. In the afternoons, the only signs of life are at the pools where people escape the 107-degree heat. As the sun sets, life is brought back to Henderson. Dog walkers, joggers, hikers, and bikers emerge, determined to finally exercise in the 90-degree air. People migrate outside to chat on their decks and teenagers host movie nights in their backyard. Henderson has stunning sunsets and warm winters, a laid-back community, a vibrant nightlife, and secret spots.

Hannah, says: 2020

Even though the city has implemented more family-friendly attractions over time, Las Vegas remains as a destination for adults looking for a quick escape from the realities of everyday life. With so much entertainment in a condensed area, the city of Las Vegas offers various ways to cross off items in a bucket list in an entirely distinctive experience.

William, says: 2020

When moving to Las Vegas it is important to know three things. Firstly, you want to know what part of the city best meets your needs. Second, it is important to research which jurisdiction you will be in and learn about the schools for that district. Finally, you want to contact a real estate agent that is active in that area and begin the process of searching for your new home.

Kelsey, says: 2020

In a single Saturday in Las Vegas, someone could start their day off with a cocktail and slots at Treasure Island, eat an international breakfast-brunch buffet at the Wynn, catch a quick show of the Dancing Fountains of the Bellagio at noon, fly across Fremont Street on a zipline in the afternoon, play a few rounds of poker at Caesars Palace before watching a live performance of Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio, and end off the night at a world-class restaurant at the MGM Grand, and could probably make it back home before the weekend ended.

Beginning as a rest stop in the 1850s from Northern Utah to Southern California, Las Vegas has transformed into an international destination home to an enormous adult playground. With the endless amount of entertainment at virtually every corner of the city, memories are sure to be made with each visit. “Sin City” is Las Vegas’ main identity to the rest of the world. This unique nickname for the city dates back to the beginning of the 1900s, when the early stages of Las Vegas legally provided visitors liquor, prostitution, and gambling.

Hitanshi, says: 2020

Be prepared for the weather. Las Vegas doesn’t really have seasons, we have winter and summer. Winters are cold and windy, but our summers are extremely hot. Las Vegas is a dry heat, and most people don’t expect that. Las Vegas can get up to the 120s in summer. Dehydration is common for new residents or even the tourist. Las Vegas is a all right city, just don’t forget about the weather!

Beginning with the bad news first, I would have to say: be prepared for the construction work. It never seems to end here. I do not remember one day where I did not see a line of orange cones during my morning commute in 15 years. That being said, there is never a shortage of activities. Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. Everything is open late and you can find events for pretty much any lifestyle here. I really enjoy living here and I do not plan on uprooting anytime soon.

If considering the big move to Sin City, I highly recommend you assess your values, discipline and self-control before. Though the bright lights and city life can surely be alluring, there’s a reason Las Vegas received its infamous nickname. It can be a land of opportunity or a little bit of hell on Earth. What you seek is up to you. However, if a party is what you’re in search of… Viva Las Vegas!

For someone moving to Las Vegas, I think the city is full of entertainment. The weather gets very hot during summer, but it’s not too bad in winter. The Las Vegas Strip is full of casinos, all of which are beautiful. This is a vacation spot that is perfect for anyone.

If you plan to move to Las Vegas, it’s vital to visit on vacation first just to get a feel of the family-friendly atmospheres and communities in the suburban areas, and beautiful tourist attractions surrounding the ever popular built-in adult playground downtown, known around the globe as the Vegas Strip.

Jennifer, says: 2020

Be aware of the heat that you’ll be faced with if you do move here. During summer, the temperature can reach up to 117 degrees. The Las Vegas Strip’s amusement factor wears out after a year of living in the city, it is nice to have but it can get boring.

Christian, says: 2020

Everyone that comes to the fabulous Las Vegas sees what the local families have been through and that they have each decided to grow stronger as a community. People in Las Vegas try their best to look out for one another and keep each other safe. Las Vegas really is a bucket list destination with incredible men and women adding to the dynamic of it all.

Nichole, says: 2020

If you are someone interested in moving to the city of Las Vegas, know the temperature can go as far as into the triple digits. To combat the temperature, there are many establishments to go to and cool off, such as Wet’n’Wild. In Las Vegas, there are many attractions to visit, such as The Strip which contains the Bellagio and Mandalay Bay.

Sayyokhat, says: 2020

Las Vegas is one of the most famous destinations in the world, known for its gambling, shows, and fine dining. The Strip is the perfect place for people looking for adult entertainment. Countless casinos are waiting for gamblers to spend their money at slot machines or table games. Shows of all kinds such as concerts and magic shows are constantly available to be watched. There are high class restaurants to eat at including Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen. Las Vegas is where people should go if they’re looking to empty out their wallets.

Las Vegas is a lively city, bubbling with life during the day and night. Anyone who finds themselves seriously moving to Vegas should know Las Vegas is not solely intended to service the desires of tourists. There are schools, grocery stores, small businesses and other everyday establishments one may find within their own local community. For many, Las Vegas is a welcoming home.

Nnaemeka, says: 2020

If you are contemplating a move to the city of Las Vegas, Nevada, be prepared to sweat! The average day temperature during summer is a balmy 105 degrees. If you are hoping for relief after the sun goes down, Las Vegas doesn’t offer much of that. If you’re lucky, temperatures may drop to just below 100 degrees.

Benson, says: 2020

Sin City, baby! Vegas is the adult version of Disneyland to most. Possibly moving here with kids is not optimal, this city is where more “play” happens. Our school county is also one of the worse in the United States. I recommend not moving here if you want to start a family. If you are an adult who wants some fun adventure, Fremont Street is the first stop for you. You can dance, sing, and drink. I’m not saying Las Vegas isn’t a responsible city, just one for the adults wanting to have fun and vacation.

Melanie, says: 2020

Las Vegas is known for the nightlife, but it has much more to offer. The booming city is nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert. From breathtaking views of Red Rock National Park, to the sandy shores of Lake Mead, this growing city is perfect for the outdoors man and city slickers.

Heather, says: 2020

Las Vegas is known for its heat, and though that aspect of the city’s climate is important to know, the wind is what will really catch a person off guard. The gusts that plague the valley coupled with the desert sands make for a nasty combination. One should be cautious of the stray dust devils on the highway and avoid getting attached to any outdoor decorations that can be whisked away in seconds!

Annette, says: 2020

Anyone moving to Las Vegas should know it is hot. Another thing to keep in mind is that it rarely rains in Las Vegas. someone moving to Las Vegas should know the population is out of hand and everywhere you go will be crowded due to the increasing popularity among tourists.

Johanna, says: 2020

Las Vegas locals section out the city by cardinal directions such as North, South, East, and West. The city is a 20 four hour ran town, we run at all hours of the day. The last thing you need to know if moving to Las Vegas is that we have all walks of life here, there are no limitations on the kind of people you can meet.

Summerlin and Green Valley are two of the best neighborhoods in the Vegas area. However, the cost of living in these areas is on the more expensive side. Some of the areas where cheaper residences can be found are East Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and downtown. I will be honest and say that living in what is a cheaper apartment in Las Vegas can come with neighbors who play music too loud and an insect problem.

Judson, says: 2020

If moving to Las Vegas, you should be prepared for extremely hot summers. The upside is that we have very mild winters. Las Vegas is a large tourist destination and we get to meet people from all over the world. I like to say Las Vegas is a small town, in a big city.

The landscape and scenery that surrounds the valley provides the perfect contrast from the big, bright lights of the city. The world-renowned Vegas sign represents the division of the city’s two personalities: Inside the sign gives you the chance to have the weekend of a lifetime, whereas the sign’s outer edge gives you peace with nature.

If you are wanting to move to Las Vegas, one thing know is that we do not all live in hotels. While the Las Vegas Strip is iconic, there is much more to our little town than gambling, clubbing, and general debauchery. Las Vegas has an amazingly diverse group of residents who are all kind and enjoy helping and taking care of one another.

Vondelle, says: 2020

Las Vegas is a city full of life and variety. People here are exceptionally polite, and there is a comforting sense of community. Many genuine people live here and we stand up for each other. While others may flaunt their city’s reputation, ours is one that needs no further explanation.

Las Vegas, NV is a wonderful place. The employment market is primarily service oriented, but the construction industry is beginning to show some signs of laboring out of its current downturn. If you love live entertainment, this will be a wonderful place to spend your time. Although not a cultural mecca, there are numerous museums and attractions available.

Benjamin, says: 2020

A few things, or more specifically one thing, that someone considering of moving here is to be aware of the heat. I live in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is well known to be a desert, and as such, the weather can become very hot and unpleasant. The weather in summer is where things can get quite uncomfortable, so if you were ever to move here, just make sure to be aware of the weather, the heat, and to dress in short-sleeved clothing. You will be much better off!

Alexis, says: 2020

As a local, my secret to sanity lies in the Red Rock Canyon. Hiking, which is easily accessible to a Vegas local, is the one connection that ties me to this city. Simply being able to stand in the middle of the desert, watching the sunrise over a red mountain ignites wonder within the soul. If you can remove yourself from the glitz and glamour of the Strip, you will never regret living a the valley with a stunning mountain range.

People love coming to Vegas to relax, party, and gamble. What is the most special is the community. The love and respect that the locals have for each other. After the shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival hundreds of people from all over town lined up waiting to be able to help in ways like donating their blood. Any position asking for help during this time had a waiting list. They all wanted to do their part in healing the wound.

Jonathan, says: 2020

Someone moving to Las Vegas should know summer heat can be sweltering. However, because the humidity levels in Las Vegas are low, the heat does not feel as badly as it would in humid environments. Las Vegas is also surprisingly isolated. Aside from “The Strip” and a few surrounding suburbs, most of Las Vegas is comprised of desert.

Rutendo, says: 2020

Someone moving to Las Vegas should know the high temperatures and the rising cost of things in which humans need to survive. People should know schooling in the state as a whole is terribly underfunded, meaning kids in 10th grade are learning material they should have mastered in 7th or 8th grade.

Contrary to popular belief, it can get pretty cold in Las Vegas during wintertime. Sometimes it even snows. There are slot machines everywhere, even at the gas stations sometimes. Most of the locals barely visit the Las Vegas strip. The city never sleeps and I’m not talking only about the weekends, weekdays too.

Although Las Vegas typically has extremely hot temperatures during summer, winters are known for very cold temperatures as well. It is not uncommon for the city to experience freezing temperatures during winter and most local Las Vegans know that they need to wrap their pipes to prevent water from freezing inside of the pipe and causing a potential burst. Icy weather is most commonly expected during winter, but the arrival of snow always tends to be a surprise.

Moving to Las Vegas can be a joy to some, and something of a shock to others. The first thing you will notice is that it is very hot in summer. Never store anything in your car or garage that you don’t want to lose to heat damage. Another common surprise is the diversity.

Cassandra, says: 2020

Las Vegas is a city that was built strictly for adults. There are very few things for families to do as a group; there aren’t many options for parents and children together. About 15 years ago they tore down one of the best place for family fun, Wet N’ Wild, to build another casino. As if we didn’t have enough casinos!

Shannon, says: 2020

There are three key points before moving to Las Vegas. First, nearly everything here is open 24 hours a day. Second, the light pollution here is extreme; if you like stars, then this may not be the right place for you. Third, there’s much more to do here than just casinos. If I were to implore you to do one thing when you get here, it’s to go out and explore everything NOT on the strip.

Kathleen, says: 2020

Las Vegas is a very busy city during the weeks surrounding holidays. Traffic gets backed up near the popular hotels and resorts, and it gets difficult to escape the city. I recommend coming to Las Vegas during a less popular time for travel, such as February or March, when the city is less crowded and the weather is more bearable.

Lauren, says: 2020

Las Vegas is a city with many employment opportunities and there are many other activities aside from gambling available. Activities such as hiking, museums, community service and sports such as softball, disc golf and ball golf. The weather is very good despite being quite hot in summer and fairly cold during winter time.

Las Vegas is a amazing city full of entertainment and nonstop fun! The city has amazing shows, restaurants, and even great hiking. The residents are also lucky enough to have a low cost of living and plenty of sunshine. Most visitors are unaware that just outside of Las Vegas is Lake Mead a beautiful area for hiking and boating!

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