Cheapest Places to Live in Las Vegas: Apartment List’s 2025 Ranking

The Section Seven and Downtown Las Vegas are among the cheapest places to live in Las Vegas. These affordable neighborhoods in Las Vegas offer renters a chance to maximize their budget without sacrificing access to the city’s best amenities and green spaces.

While rent isn’t what it used to be, deals on cheap rent in Las Vegas still exist if you know where to look. According to Apartment List’s latest data as of August 2025, these five neighborhoods feature below-average starting rents while still offering plenty of amenities.

Let’s break down where your dollar goes further in Sin City.

Las Vegas Rent Snapshot: How We Built This Ranking

We analyzed August 2025 rent data across Las Vegas neighborhoods, using our platform's real-time listings. While factors like safety, schools, and amenities matter to many renters, they weren’t part of the core ranking criteria. However, we’ve highlighted those considerations later in this article for a fuller picture of each area.

All figures reflect what renters are actually paying, based on real-time listings from our platform, not outdated estimates.

To make the cut, a neighborhood had to have:

• Average rents near or below the citywide average in Las Vegas ($1,814), offering substantial value across a range of price points.
• Enough listings to reflect real demand.
• Access to major transit routes or commuter corridors.
• A variety of rental types, from entry-level units to mid-tier options. \

The result? A ranking rooted in real rent trends, and useful information on what it is really like to live there.

Apartment List Data Sources and Rent Report

Apartment List aggregates millions of active listings and survey responses to create a monthly snapshot of market conditions. At the heart of this system is the Apartment List rent report: a weighted measure of median rents across bedroom sizes, seasonally adjusted to reflect true price changes over time.

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our Las Vegas rent data, we also incorporate external sources, including U.S. Census Bureau data and local MLS feeds. The figures in this guide reflect the most recent data available, as of August 2025.

What Las Vegas Rents Look Like Right Now

There’s plenty of variety for renters in Las Vegas. As of August 2025, the average rent for an apartment in Las Vegas is $1,814, representing a 1.6% increase from the previous year. Still, renting in Las Vegas is about 14% below the national average, and typically, renters also get more space and amenities than they’d normally find in Los Angeles and San Diego.

Prices do vary widely based on location, building age, amenities mix, and proximity to food, local attractions, and green spaces. So here’s how Las Vegas stacks up against the national average.

Cities with similar pricing? Think Dallas ($1,907) or Portland, Oregon ($1,891). What sets Las Vegas apart is its seasonality.

Pricing here often fluctuates in response to the city’s event calendar. Demand spikes during spring and fall, when the weather is most favorable, and during marquee conventions such as CES in January. These surges can temporarily push rents higher, especially in central neighborhoods near the Strip and Downtown.

For renters, timing can be just as important as location. Tip? Moving in off-peak months often yields better deals.

The Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Las Vegas (2025)

These are Las Vegas’ most wallet-friendly neighborhoods for 2025, ranked by lowest average rent. These five neighborhoods stood out for budget-friendliness, starting rents, and overall value. We compared each area’s one-bedroom average rent to the current citywide average one-bedroom rent price of $1,576 to calculate the percentage savings.

The Section Seven is the budget-friendly option, featuring older apartments and quiet suburban streets. West Sahara combines modest complexes with gated communities, located just west of the Strip, making commutes easy.

River Mountain in Henderson is ideal for outdoorsy renters, offering desert trails and access to Lake Mead. Meanwhile, Peccole Ranch delivers a master-planned vibe, featuring tree-lined streets, parks, and family-friendly trails. And for those who want city energy, Downtown Las Vegas offers walkability, nightlife, and cultural landmarks, all at rents below the city average.

The Section Seven

• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,273
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,444
• Number of currently available units: 13
• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 38
• Map of The Section Seven

Located in the western Las Vegas Valley, The Section Seven offers a suburban atmosphere with a reputation for affordable rents and extra space.

The average one-bedroom rent here averages nearly 20% below the Las Vegas average one-bedroom rent price of $1,576. Two-bedrooms come in at around $1,444 compared to the citywide average apartment rent of $1,828, providing renters with meaningful savings without sacrificing comfort.

The neighborhood is a mix of older apartments and single-family homes set on quieter streets, with plenty of family- and dog-friendly parks nearby. Residents have easy access to major roads, such as Interstates 15 and 215, making commutes to Downtown or North Las Vegas less than 30 minutes realistic.

While most errands require a car, shopping and dining at Downtown Summerlin and local favorites are a short drive away, making it an area that’s practical for budget-minded renters looking for value and city conveniences close at hand.

West Sahara

• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,340
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,674
• Number of currently available units: 16
• Walk score: 46
• Transit score: 39
• Bike score: 47
• Map of West Sahara

Just west of the Las Vegas Strip, West Sahara combines central convenience with more affordable pricing.

One-bedroom units average $1,340, and two-bedroom units rent for $1,674, representing a modest savings compared to the average rent price of $1,814 for an apartment in Las Vegas.

From modest apartment complexes to gated communities on tree-lined streets, commutes from West Sahara are short: 15 minutes to Downtown and the Strip, thanks to Sahara Avenue and nearby freeway access. Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) bus service along Sahara adds transit options, though most errands still require a car. When residents don’t feel like braving Strip traffic, they’ll find plenty of casual eateries, grocery stores like H Mart, and green spaces like Old Spanish Trail Park close to home.

Downtown Las Vegas

• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,468
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,638
• Number of currently available units: 35
• Walk score: 75
• Transit score: 55
• Bike score: 61
• Map of Downtown Las Vegas

For renters who want a true urban desert lifestyle, Downtown Las Vegas is one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods. With a walk score of 75, it’s one of the few places in the valley where you can live car-free, running daily errands on foot, walking to dinner at the hottest new restaurants, or stepping right into headliner nightlife events.

Two-bedroom units rent for an average of $1,638 (more than 10% below the citywide average of $1,828). Considering the location and accessibility, that’s quite a bargain. The area mixes historic districts with sleek high-rises, attracting young professionals and creatives who want to be in the center of it all.

Commutes are hard to beat: less than 10 minutes to the Strip, and 10 to 15 minutes to North Las Vegas. Multiple RTC bus lines, including the Deuce and the Downtown Loop, make transit widely available, although HOV access is limited within the urban grid. Residents enjoy daily conveniences, but it’s the unique Las Vegas-style attractions, such as the Downtown Container Park, the Mob Museum, and the Neon Museum, that add character to the neighborhood’s 24/7 vibe. \

River Mountain

• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,490
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,705
• Number of currently available units: 19
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: 32
• Bike score: 38
• Map of River Mountain

Tucked into the southeast corner of Henderson, River Mountain is a natural fit for outdoorsy renters who want suburban comfort but with excellent recreation opportunities at their doorstep. One-bedroom units average $1,490, while two-bedroom rentals run for $1,705.

The neighborhood’s standout feature is the nearby River Mountains Loop Trail, a 34-mile scenic path through the Mojave Desert and some of the valley’s best hiking and cycling routes. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is also just minutes away, giving residents a choice of boating, camping, and open desert landscapes.

Getting around takes a bit longer, on average 20 to 30 minutes to Downtown or the Strip via Boulder Highway or Interstate 215. Errands like grocery shopping usually require a car due to the low walk score of 19, but they aren’t too far by car. For renters who prize fresh air, trail systems, and weekend adventure as much as city access, River Mountain is one of the valley’s best-kept secrets.

Peccole Ranch

• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,504
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,655
• Number of currently available units: 16
• Walk score: 45
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Peccole Ranch

About 10 miles west of Downtown Las Vegas, Peccole Ranch is a master-planned community designed around tree-lined streets, neighborhood parks, and miles of walking trails.

One-bedroom units average $1,504, which is 5% below the citywide average of $1,576. Meanwhile, two-bedroom units rent for $1,655, offering potential savings compared to the citywide norm of $1,828.

The community is best known for the Paseos trail network and private disc golf course, which give it a relaxed, outdoors-friendly feel. Commutes average 15 to 25 minutes to Downtown and North Las Vegas, supported by RTC bus routes on Sahara and Flamingo, plus Interstate 215 access. While most errands require a car, nearby hubs like Downtown Summerlin, Boca Park, and the Las Vegas Ballpark are especially appealing for families and young professionals.

How Do These Affordable Las Vegas Neighborhoods Compare in Daily Life?

Whether you’re looking for short Las Vegas commute times, access to hiking trails or Lake Mead, each of these neighborhoods offers a different mix of trade-offs. Some are ideal for remote workers and families, while others offer unbeatable access to major job centers. Below, we’ve summarized the key lifestyle factors that can make or break a neighborhood for renters in 2025.

Commute Times and Transit Access

Getting around Las Vegas can be time-consuming, but where you live makes all the difference. Below is a breakdown of commute times from the cheapest Las Vegas neighborhoods to key job centers like Downtown, the Strip, and North Las Vegas, plus available transit options and HOV access.

Safety and Walkability Scores

Las Vegas’ average crime grade sits at a D, with certain pockets seeing much higher rates of reported incidents of theft and violent crime. With a walk score of 42, most errands require a car.

Safety and walkability vary significantly by neighborhood; for instance, if you’re in Downtown, the crime rate is below average, but the walk score is a solid 75. Over in River Mountain, the walk score is 19, but with a safety rating of above average. Below, we break down how each of Las Vegas’ most affordable areas compares when it comes to feeling secure and getting around on foot.

Fiber Internet, Parks, and Local Amenities

Fast internet, easy access to essentials, and neighborhood highlights can make or break the renter experience. While fiber-optic internet isn’t as widely available across Las Vegas neighborhoods, wireless home internet coverage is nearly 100%, providing renters (especially remote workers) with a reliable way to get online. Below, we list each area’s Wi-Fi coverage, nearest grocery store, hospital, and park. We’ve also included local gems that give each neighborhood its own flavor.

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Low rent is only half the story in Las Vegas; watch for extra fees that can add up.

Parking and amenities: Reserved spots often cost $40 to $180 a month, and access to pools, gyms, or storage may incur additional fees.

Add-on fees: Charges such as valet trash, damage waivers, and lifestyle-improvement fees can add hundreds more each month.

New protections (effective October 1, 2025): Nevada landlords must disclose all fees upfront, cap charges to service costs, and itemize optional add-ons, such as parking or storage.

Always ask about hidden costs before signing to avoid surprises.

Transportation and Commuting Expenses

With a walk score of 42, Las Vegas is a car-centric city, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily travel. Commute times average about 25 minutes, and while highways are toll-free, downtown parking fees can quickly add up.

For those who rely on transit, the RTC offers a 30-day pass for $65, while a Valley Metro pass costs about $64 per month. By comparison, MIT Living Wage estimates say the average annual cost of transportation is $10,349 for a single adult without children.

Utilities Bills (Especially in Summer)

Renters in Las Vegas should budget more for utilities than the national average. Monthly costs average about $249.73, compared to $225.58 nationally, mainly due to higher electricity usage for cooling.

Typical power bills run around $171.59 a month (16% higher than the U.S. average), while water, gas, and trash add another $78 on average. Internet averages $75.63, while mobile plans average around $70.21.

Renters can trim costs by opting for time-of-use plans from NV Energy, which reward off-peak usage, or exploring rooftop solar with federal tax credits. With large-scale solar infrastructure scheduled to expand by 2027, long-term energy costs in southern Nevada are expected to become more stable.

Pro tip: Blackout curtains and programmable thermostats go a long way in enhancing your comfort and minimizing your expenses.

Groceries, Taxes, and Lifestyle Costs

When budgeting for the cost of living in Las Vegas, it’s essential to note that groceries run approximately 2.3% above the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places.

Luckily, residents get to keep more of their pay with zero income tax; however, with transportation expenses 28.5% above the national average, some of the savings are certainly reduced.

Lifestyle expenses vary but are reasonable. An average gym membership costs around $24.38 per month, while entertainment options, such as a Las Vegas Raiders game, see tickets priced at $220 and higher. However, there’s plenty of free entertainment, and of course, the Strip can provide bargain-priced entertainment if you know where to look.

How Can I Find Apartment Deals in Las Vegas?

Like other big cities, Las Vegas’ rental market is fast-moving in popular or accessible neighborhoods. Being prepared, fast-moving, informed, and strategic can make all the difference. Here are a few ways you can get cheaper rent for your next Las Vegas apartment.

Save Time and Tour Virtually

Many landlords now offer 3D walkthroughs or live video tours, which are especially helpful if you're moving from out of town. These Las Vegas virtual tours let you screen multiple listings in one afternoon without ever leaving your couch. Use them to narrow your list, flag issues early, and move quickly when the right opportunity arises.

• Click “Schedule virtual tour” on the listing; most platforms now offer this option.
• Verify the 3D walk-through link or video tour to preview the space in detail.
• Confirm a live agent Q&A, if available, so that you can ask about fees, lease terms, and availability in real time.

Once you’ve toured, don’t wait. Complete your rental application within 24 hours to stay ahead of other renters, especially in popular neighborhoods where units go fast.

Come Prepared to Apply On the Spot

Have your paperwork ready: proof of income, credit score, bank statements, personal identification, and references. In competitive neighborhoods, good apartments with attractive amenities go in a day or less. Showing you’re serious gives you an edge, sometimes even over applicants with higher income.

Master the Art of Negotiation

Don’t assume the sticker price is final. There is always some wiggle room, so ask the landlord or agent if there are discounts for longer leases, if they will waive fees for same-day applications, or if they will include complimentary parking. If you’ve got great credit and references along with shorter move-in dates, you’ve got leverage. And if vacancy rates are trending near 10%, you should definitely expect to secure some form of a discount.

Optimize Off-Season Rates

Demand for apartments slows, especially around the holidays. Fewer renters equals more room to negotiate. If your timing is flexible, the best time to rent an apartment is between December and February, as you’ll often find less competition and better deals.

Expand Your Search Radius Slightly

Moving just a few miles outside high-demand areas, such as Downtown Las Vegas and Peccole Ranch, can save hundreds of dollars each month. Las Vegas’ size means there’s almost always a deal available, especially in the less trendy ZIP codes. Let Apartment List’s filters help you zero in on hidden gems.

Filter Under-Budget Listings with AI Matching

Want to increase your chances of snagging a rental deal in Las Vegas’ competitive 2025 market? Here’s a simple tactic: Set your max-rent filter to 10% below your true budget. If your monthly limit is $1,500, set your filter to $1,350. Why? This helps reveal listings that:

• Recently dropped in price.
• Don’t include all concessions up front.
• May be open to lease negotiation.

Even if a place is slightly under your radar, it could check every box once perks are factored in.

To speed up the search, take the personalized Apartment List quiz. In under 90 seconds, you’ll get curated apartment matches based on your rent range, must-haves, and commute preferences, with no endless scrolling required. It's the smartest way to spot hidden deals without wasting time. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Secure Lease Perks and Move-In Specials

In 2025, Las Vegas landlords are still offering incentives to fill vacancies, particularly in newer or high-rise properties. This can significantly reduce the monthly rent rate over the course of a year. Some of the most common perks include:

• Free parking for the first six to 12 months.
• Reduced security deposits (sometimes cut in half).
• Four to six weeks of free rent for longer lease terms.
• Waived application or admin fees.

Don’t be afraid to ask: “Are there any move-in specials if I sign an 18-month lease today?”

Landlords may not advertise these upfront, but if you ask directly, you could save hundreds in the long run. Just be sure to get all agreed-upon concessions in writing before signing your lease. Verbal deals don’t count once the paperwork is done.

Is Living in Las Vegas, NV, Right for You?

Living in Las Vegas can be rewarding if you value sunshine, affordable housing, and endless entertainment options. Ready to see if Las Vegas is the right fit for you? Take our Apartment List quiz to find your best rental match today.

FAQs About Las Vegas’ Cheapest Neighborhoods

What time of year are Las Vegas rents lowest?

Rent rates for December to February are typically lower. Off-peak times and higher vacancy rates can unlock big savings.

Are the cheapest neighborhoods safe?

Generally speaking, yes. However, it’s essential to conduct your own research, so be sure to check crime maps, speak with locals, and visit if possible.

Does Las Vegas offer rental assistance programs?

Yes. Las Vegas offers rental assistance through programs such as the Just One Project, Las Vegas Housing Authority, and HopeLink. These can help with deposits, landlord mediation, short-term subsidies, or even utility support.

How do utility costs compare across neighborhoods?

Las Vegas utility costs vary by neighborhood, depending on the age and type of housing. Newer, energy-efficient homes will have lower cooling bills. In contrast, older buildings like those in The Section Seven and West Sahara can see higher summer cooling costs. Renters should factor these differences into their budget.

Is Las Vegas cheaper than Reno?

According to Numbeo, Las Vegas’ overall cost of living is 7.7% lower than Reno's, thanks to more competitive rental and housing rates.

Are there pet-friendly units available in Las Vegas?

Yes. In fact, there are over 1,000 pet-friendly apartments for rent, and many include amenities such as pet washing stations and dog parks.

Is it possible to find apartments in Las Vegas that are under $1,000 per month?

Yes, as of September 2025, Apartment List has about 40 Las Vegas apartments that are under $1,000 per month. Use the filter tools to further narrow down your search.

Are short-term leases common in Las Vegas?

As of September 2025, you can find over 100 apartment listings offering short-term leases.