16 Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas, NV

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Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the country’s most popular and populated cities.

People have flocked to the desert for decades to see this modern sprawling urban area and enjoy all it has to offer.

Whether it is entertainment or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone.

However, there are some downsides to be aware of before moving to this large city.

Please keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons and whether this city is an ideal destination for my new home.

Pros of Living in Las Vegas

Consider these top pros of living in Las Vegas and use them to consider if moving to this major city is ideal for your lifestyle.

1. Plenty of Entertainment Options

When it comes to entertainment, Las Vegas has endless options.

It is considered by many to be the entertainment capital of the country.

There is something to do night and day in this major city.

There is something in the city for all ages and interests, whether it is casinos, restaurants, or thrill rides.

In fact, there’s something to do in every corner of the city.

Anyone interested in moving to Las Vegas will love the wide variety of entertainment this major city offers.

2. No State Income Tax

If you are interested in making your finances stretch further, you will be excited to know that there is no state income tax and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Unlike many other states in the country, you will be able to skip the state tax and save a considerable sum on your living expenses.

It is worth mentioning, however, that you will be taxed in other ways to help cover state programs and other infrastructure expenses.

3. Diverse food options

Las Vegas, Nevada, is truly a place for foodies.

There is a wide diversity of food options all across the city.

Nearly every culture from across the world is represented in the multitude of restaurants with dining options available in this urban city.

Whether it is traditional Southwestern fair or Asian dishes from across the continent, there is something for everyone.

That means if you have a favorite food from a specific culture, it is likely to be found in the city.

4. Multiple Outdoor Activities

Plenty of outdoor activities are on the outskirts of Las Vegas and directly inside the city.

For those who want to avoid the desert landscape on the outskirts of Las Vegas, there are plenty of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, thrill rides, and swimming.

However, individuals interested in exploring the great outdoors have many opportunities just outside the city limits.

Because Las Vegas is located in the desert, there are plenty of exciting activities such as rock climbing, hiking, animal tracking, and much more.

5. Sightseeing Opportunities

There is always something to see and Las Vegas.

Plenty of landmarks and sightseeing opportunities are sprinkled throughout the city and beyond its borders.

Anyone interested in exploring historical landmarks and historical wonders does not have to travel far beyond the city’s boundaries.

6. Mild Winters

Because Las Vegas is located in the desert, it tends to have mild Winters.

However, every once in a while, Las Vegas will have a light dusting of snow or freezing temperatures.

However, individuals who live in Las Vegas do not have to contend with icy roads or sub-freezing conditions often.

7. Plenty of Retailers

Whether you love to shop or want to have plenty of options when you are in the mood, there are plenty of retailers across Las Vegas.

The retailers in the area range from upscale designer boutiques to big-box retail outlets.

There is a retailer for just about any product you can imagine in Las Vegas.

This is just another of the many perks that come with living in a major city in the United States.

8. Reasonable Cost of Living

Compared to other major cities in the country, Las Vegas has a more reasonable cost of living.

Although rent is still considered high by national standards, it is much lower in Las Vegas than in cities such as Houston, Los Angeles, or New York.

The cost of utilities may run higher in the summer months.

Still, overall necessities are moderately priced, which makes Las Vegas an attractive option for individuals looking to work or enjoy the benefits of a larger city.

Cons of Living in Las Vegas

While there are many benefits to living in Las Vegas, some cons may make it difficult to settle down in this area.

1. Surrounded by the Desert

Because Las Vegas is surrounded by desert, you will need to traverse desert conditions to get to nearby cities or another state.

This can make for somewhat hazardous travel conditions, especially in the summer.

There is also a lack of green spaces and scenic landscapes regarding plants and fields.

Although the desert landscape is beautiful in its own way, it may lack some natural features many people appreciate in other areas of the country.

2. Hot Summers

During the summer in Las Vegas, the daytime temperatures can soar well above 100° for several days in a row.

Combine the excessive heat and the dry conditions, and it is a recipe for extreme desert conditions.

Anyone whose heat is sensitive or has health conditions will want to stay out of the hot daytime conditions and choose to venture out in the late evening or early morning.

3. Limited Job Opportunities

The job market in Las Vegas is less than stellar regarding multiple opportunities.

Individuals living in Las Vegas are highly competitive for positions, especially in the entertainment or guest service industry.

Anyone considering moving to Las Vegas will want to secure a job before moving to the area to prevent any issues with acquiring work.

4. High Crime Rate

Unfortunately, Las Vegas has a high crime rate typical for a large United States city.

Some areas of Las Vegas are more prone to crime, usually in tourist-heavy areas.

If you plan to move to Las Vegas, it is essential to understand where most of the criminal activity occurs and make a point to use extreme caution when visiting these areas.

Anyone interested in looking for housing will want to look on the outskirts of the central part of the city for the safest conditions.

5. Expensive Utilities

Utilities in Las Vegas are very expensive for several reasons.

The primary reason is that Las Vegas is located in the middle of a desert with limited access to water.

In order to acquire water, it must be pumped in and diverted from a dam just outside the city.

Additionally, electricity is expensive because many resources are required to produce electricity that does not naturally occur in this area.

Another pricey necessity is natural or propane gas.

6. Gas Prices

Gas prices for automobiles and diesel are much higher in Las Vegas than in other parts of the country.

The prices in Las Vegas are comparable to or even higher than those in the state of California.

Because Las Vegas is located in the middle of a desert, all fuel must be transported into the city by trucks at a premium, which increases gas prices significantly.

7. Poor Education System

Regarding public education, Las Vegas is one of the poorest performing school systems in the United States.

In 2018, Las Vegas was rated at the bottom of the list for poor-performing schools, kindergarten through high school.

Anyone interested in moving to Las Vegas and plans to have their children attend in-person classes should consider sending them to a private school if possible.

8. Not Many Plants or Trees

There are no lush fields or forest areas in Las Vegas.

Any trees and plants found inside the city were planted for landscaping purposes and are sparse.

One reason for this is that Las Vegas usually operates with limited water supplies and may need to conserve water periodically throughout the year due to drought conditions.

On the outskirts of the city or desert, conditions are not conducive to growing trees and plants other than native species that are hearty and can stand up to the heat and excessively dry conditions.

Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas, NV – Summary Table

Las Vegas Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Las Vegas Safety Review

Safety Index:

62

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW