Cost of Living in Las Vegas, NV [2025]

Las Vegas continues to attract new residents in 2025 with its relatively affordable lifestyle, no state income tax, and dynamic mix of entertainment, outdoor recreation, and growing industries. The city offers diverse neighborhoods, scenic desert trails, acclaimed restaurants, and year-round sunshine—all within driving distance of major national parks and weekend getaway spots.

Unlike other major metros with soaring rents and congestion, Las Vegas offers room to grow without sacrificing lifestyle or opportunity.

Compared to more expensive cities like Miami or Los Angeles, Las Vegas offers substantial savings in housing, transportation, and daily expenses. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Las Vegas is $1,828, while similar housing in Miami averages $3,362.

In the sections below, we’ll break down the true cost of living in Las Vegas so you can decide whether the city fits your lifestyle and financial priorities in 2025.

*Note: We used internal data and cross-referenced with data from Rent.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents as of September 2025. Other sources include Sperling’s BestPlaces, Numbeo, and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.*

Cost of Living in Las Vegas

What Is the Cost of Living in Las Vegas?

As a major hub in Nevada, Las Vegas is slightly pricier than other similar U.S. cities. On average, it’s about 10.6% higher than the national average. Housing costs also run around 14.5% higher than national norms. However, health expenses are lower than in other major U.S. cities.

Within Las Vegas, costs vary by neighborhood. According to our latest data, areas like Mira Villas have higher rents, around $2,200 or more for a two-bedroom apartment.

On the other hand, neighborhoods like The Section Seven and West Sahara offer lower rents, averaging $1,444 and $1,674 for a two-bedroom.

Where Is the Cost of Living Highest in Las Vegas, NV?

Mira Villas has the highest cost of living in Las Vegas, with one-bedrooms averaging $2,039 and two-bedroom rents averaging $2,279 per month, significantly higher than the Nevada average and the national averages of $1,575 (one bedrooms) and $1,828 (two bedrooms).

Where Is the Cost of Living Most Affordable in Las Vegas, NV?

The Section Seven is one of the most affordable places to live in Las Vegas, with one-bedroom rents averaging $1,273 per month and two-bedrooms at $1,444.

This puts apartments in this neighborhood at roughly 27.5% and 34.2% below the national averages of $1,757 and $2,194 for one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, respectively.

What Is the Average Rent in Las Vegas, NV?

As of September 2025, the overall median rent in Las Vegas is $1,393, based on Apartment List data. The one-bedroom median rent is $1,095, while two-bedroom apartments are $1,328.

The median rent in Las Vegas fell by 0.5% over the course of August, and has now decreased by a total of 1.6% over the past 12 months. Las Vegas’ rent growth over the past year is similar to both the state (-1.5%) and national averages (-0.9%).

For Las Vegas:

Other major cities:

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Las Vegas, NV?

As of September 2025, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Las Vegas is $1,095. The one-bedroom average is $1,576. Prices differ by neighborhood.

Mira Villas apartments fall around $2,000, while more affordable areas like The Section Seven and West Sahara are closer to $1,300. Rent can fluctuate depending on area, amenities, and the age of the building.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Las Vegas, NV?

The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Las Vegas is $1,328 as of September 2025. The two-bedroom average is $1,828.

Higher-demand areas like Mira Villas often start around $2,200, while more budget-friendly neighborhoods such as The Section Seven and West Sahara offer two-bedrooms closer to $1,500. The final cost depends on factors like location, unit size, and amenities.

How Much Is Housing in Las Vegas?

The median home sale price in Las Vegas is around $450,000. That’s slightly above the national median of $435,300.

With steady new construction and more manageable year-over-year price increases, Las Vegas is a viable option for buyers who may be priced out of higher-cost markets like Los Angeles or Miami.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Las Vegas, NV?

A common rule of thumb for housing affordability is the 30% rule, meaning you should spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. Based on the median one-bedroom rent of $1,095 in Las Vegas, you’d need to earn at least $43,800 per year, or $3,650 per month, to stay within the 30% income rule. That breaks down to about $21.06 per hour for a full-time worker. If you’re targeting a two-bedroom at the median $1,328, the required income jumps to $53,120 per year.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Las Vegas’ median household income is $78,556. Although that is below the national median of $81,604, the average Las Vegas renter is comfortably within the 30% rule for a one-bedroom or a two-bedroom apartment.

However, expenses beyond rent—like utilities, groceries, and transit—can add up. To determine what fits your budget, try the Apartment List Rent Calculator to find options based on your income.

For more detailed data, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates that a single adult without children in Las Vegas needs to earn $24.10 per hour to cover basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare and remain above the poverty threshold. That number does not include savings contributions, travel costs, or debt repayments.

How Much Is Transportation in Las Vegas, NV?

The MIT Living Wage Calculator data breaks down typical car-based transportation expenses for different household types in the Las Vegas region.

Las Vegas is still largely reliant on cars for daily transportation. Nearly 95% of residents commute by car. While the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Southern Nevada operates bus routes across the valley, service can be infrequent or inconvenient outside core areas. Major roads like Interstate 15, the 215 Beltway, and Summerlin Parkway often experience congestion during rush hours. Therefore, driving remains the most practical way to get around.

In terms of walkability, Walk Score data highlights Las Vegas neighborhoods where you can go car-free:

• Downtown (walk score 75): Highly walkable with RTC bus routes, bike lanes, and scooters providing easy access to the Arts District and Fremont Street.
• John S. Park (walk score 78): Access to RTC bus routes, bike lanes, and nearby Downtown Las Vegas amenities.

If you rely on public transit or prefer not to own a car, these neighborhoods offer the most convenient options for getting around the city.

How Much Are Groceries in Las Vegas?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children in the Las Vegas area spends at least $4,188 per year on food, while a two-adult household with two children averages $12,275 annually. That breaks down to about $349 per month for a solo renter and $1,023 monthly for a four-person family, covering groceries and basic meals at home.

Dining out in Las Vegas is relatively affordable. According to Numbeo, an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $23, while a three-course dinner for two at a midrange spot averages around $80.

If you frequently go out to eat or order takeout, your monthly food costs will go up.

How Much Is Child Care in Las Vegas, NV?

Families face notable child care expenses in the Las Vegas area. According to MIT Living Wage data for Las Vegas, child care costs for one child average $13,711 per year. For two children, annual child care costs more than double to around $26,784.

That means child care alone can exceed $1,143 monthly for one child, and $2,232 per month for two. These figures form a significant part of the living wage calculation for local parents and should factor into budgeting decisions.

To ease the burden of child care costs, parents can consider flexible remote work hours, look for providers in more affordable neighborhoods or those with shorter waitlists, and coordinate shared caregiving with family or friends. These approaches can help make child care more manageable and adaptable to different family needs.

How Much Is Healthcare in Las Vegas, NV?

Using data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult without children typically spends around $2,814 per year on healthcare, including insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. For a family of two working adults and two children, healthcare expenses rise to approximately $7,746 annually.

Healthcare expenses take up a significant portion of family budgets, making routine medical care one of the biggest ongoing costs.

How Much Are Utilities in Las Vegas, NV?

A 915-square-foot Las Vegas apartment has average monthly utility costs (electricity, heating and cooling, water, garbage) of $246.66, which is about 17.5% higher than the national average of $209.96.

On top of that, a mobile phone plan (10 GB plus voice) averages $70.21 per month, while high-speed internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) runs about $75.63 per month, bringing the overall monthly total to $392.50.

Las Vegas has long, hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which can lead to high electricity use from air conditioning. Winters are mild, so heating costs are typically low, but it's important to budget for increased utility bills during the peak summer months.

Las Vegas, NV, Fitness and Entertainment

Las Vegas offers plenty of affordable ways to stay active and entertained, with many hiking trails, free shows, and cultural events throughout the city.

Outdoor Activities and Local Favorites

Las Vegas is filled with stunning outdoor destinations. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a local favorite for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives, just 20 miles from Downtown.

Within the city, Sunset Park offers trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities across its 300 acres. Residents in neighborhoods like Summerlin and Henderson also enjoy quick access to community trails, golf courses, and green spaces.

Gym Memberships and Alternatives

According to Numbeo, the average monthly fitness club fee in Las Vegas is about $24.38 per person. This is nearly half the cost of the national average.

Many residents also take advantage of recreation facilities like those operated by Clark County Parks and Recreation, which often include gyms, pools, and classes at affordable rates. Additionally, many apartment communities in Summerlin, Henderson, and Downtown Las Vegas provide on-site fitness centers.

Entertainment Costs and Budget Options

Entertainment in Las Vegas is budget-friendly. Two movie tickets cost about $28. Locals often enjoy free or low-cost attractions like the Fremont Street Experience, the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and free outdoor concerts and festivals across the valley.

Neighborhoods such as Downtown Las Vegas and the Arts District offer unique nightlife, galleries, and community events without the high price tag of the Strip’s big-name shows.

How Much Are Taxes in Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas’ combined sales tax rate is 8.375%, which includes state and county sales taxes. There is no city sales tax or state income tax.

The lack of state income tax can be a major financial advantage for residents. However, local costs still include relatively high sales taxes—8.375% in Clark County—and moderate property taxes, which can influence overall living expenses. While property taxes directly affect homeowners, renters may feel the impact indirectly through rent prices.

Compared to states with higher income taxes, Nevada’s tax structure can be more favorable, but it’s still important to factor in sales, property, and other local taxes when planning your budget.

Las Vegas Job Market

Las Vegas is at the heart of a growing southern Nevada economy, with steady job growth and competitive wages in various industries. Growth has been especially strong in hospitality, healthcare, logistics, and tech.

In July 2025, Las Vegas’ unemployment rate was 6.0%, slightly above the Nevada rate (5.4%) and above the national rate (4.2%). The area’s average hourly wage was $25.62, outperforming the state average ($21.19) but slightly below the national average ($28.16).

Find Your Next Apartment in Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas’ relatively affordable cost of living, growing job opportunities, and variety of neighborhoods make it a practical choice for students, families, and professionals alike. Whether you're looking for affordable rent, proximity to nightlife and entertainment, or extra space in a quieter area, Las Vegas offers housing options to suit a wide range of lifestyles.

Ready to make a move? Start your search with the personalized Apartment List quiz. It takes just five minutes and can save you 50 hours of searching.

FAQs: What to Know About the Cost of Living in Las Vegas

How expensive is an apartment in Las Vegas?

As of September 2025, the median rent for all apartment sizes in Las Vegas is $1,393 per month, with one-bedroom units at a median of $1,095 and two-bedroom units at $1,328.

What is the cheapest rent in Las Vegas?

One-bedroom apartments in neighborhoods like The Section Seven can be as low as $1,273 per month, well below the national median.

How expensive is it to live in Las Vegas?

Using the most affordable rent example of $1,273 per month and adding estimated annual costs for food ($4,188), transportation ($10,349), utilities ($4,710), and healthcare ($2,814) for a single adult without children, total annual essential living expenses fall around $37,337. This does not account for savings, debt repayment, or discretionary spending.

How far is Las Vegas from the Grand Canyon?

Las Vegas locals make weekend getaways to The Grand Canyon. Las Vegas is 253.5 miles from the Grand Canyon via I-14 S. It takes about 4 hours and 15-minutes to drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.

How far is Reno from Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is 438.8 miles to Reno via US-95 N. It takes over seven hours to drive from Las Vegas to Reno.

How far is Las Vegas from Los Angeles?

Las Vegas is 270.3 miles to Los Angeles via I-15 N. It takes about four hours and 45 minutes to get from Las Vegas to L.A.

What is the population of Las Vegas?

As of the latest census, Las Vegas has a population of approximately 641,903 people, making it the largest city in Nevada and one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.

What is a good salary in Las Vegas?

Based on the 30% rent rule, a median one-bedroom rent of $1,095 requires a gross annual income of around $43,800 per year, or $21.06 per hour for full-time work.

The MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage as a single adult without children at $24.10 per hour to remain above the poverty threshold.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates Las Vegas’ median household income at $73,784.