12 Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas, NV [2025]

Are the bright lights and 24/7 energy of Las Vegas tempting you to make the move? You’re not alone. Known for its entertainment industry, warm desert climate, and rapidly growing suburbs, Las Vegas attracts newcomers looking for affordable housing, career opportunities, and year-round sunshine.

But living in Las Vegas isn’t for everyone. The city has its challenges like scorching summers, limited public transportation, and a service-heavy job market that can feel unpredictable. Below, we’ll break down the key pros and cons of living in Las Vegas, along with insights on the cost of living, jobs, schools, safety, and neighborhoods.

Methodology: We used internal Apartment List data and cross-referenced with housing and neighborhood data from Rent.com and Apartments.com to provide the most accurate snapshot of Las Vegas living as of September 2025. Crime data is sourced from CrimeGrade.org and Weichert.

Key Insights

• Housing costs: One-bedroom apartments in Las Vegas average around $1,493, making it more affordable than many West Coast cities.
• Jobs: Employment opportunities are available in hospitality, healthcare, logistics, and tech, though the current unemployment rate overall is relatively high
• Lifestyle: Residents enjoy 300+ days of sunshine, world-class dining, and entertainment, plus access to Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead.
• Challenges: Extreme summer heat, water scarcity concerns, and higher crime in certain neighborhoods are important considerations for renters.

Quick Facts About Las Vegas, NV

1. Pro: Affordable Cost of Living Compared to Other Major Cities

While housing costs have risen in recent years, Las Vegas remains more affordable than similar cities like Phoenix and Dallas. No state income tax adds to its appeal, helping residents stretch their paychecks further. Renters and homeowners alike find better value for square footage than in many other U.S. metros.

2. Con: Extreme Summer Heat

Las Vegas summers regularly exceed 105°F, with long stretches of triple-digit temperatures. Outdoor activities can become uncomfortable or even dangerous without precautions. While most homes and apartments are equipped with air conditioning, energy costs can spike during peak summer months.

3. Pro: Strong Entertainment and Dining Scene

From world-class restaurants run by celebrity chefs to live performances and nightlife, Las Vegas offers constant entertainment. Locals don’t need to rely on The Strip. Off-Strip dining and entertainment options continue to expand. For residents, this means easy access to cultural experiences and weekend fun without leaving the city.

4. Cons: Limited Public Transportation

The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) bus system serves the valley, but it can be slow and limited in reach. The city only has a Transit Score of 36 out of 100, which is pretty low for a major metropolis.

Most residents find they need a car to navigate daily life, especially outside of The Strip and Downtown. For newcomers without vehicles, commuting and errands may feel inconvenient.

5. Pro: Growing Job Market in Multiple Sectors

Las Vegas has expanded beyond gaming and hospitality, with jobs increasing in healthcare, tech, and logistics. Large companies continue to invest in the region, boosting opportunities for professionals. The city’s proximity to California markets also makes it attractive for businesses seeking lower operating costs. This diversification is helping stabilize the economy and create more career paths for residents.

6. Con: Water Supply Concerns

Las Vegas depends heavily on the Colorado River, and the ongoing drought in the Southwest has raised serious sustainability concerns. While the city has invested in conservation efforts, restrictions on water use may increase in the future. Renters should be aware of higher utility costs and the potential for long-term resource challenges. Climate shifts in the coming decades could intensify these issues, impacting both residents and local businesses.

7. Pro: No State Income Tax

Nevada doesn’t charge a state income tax, which can be a huge financial advantage for workers and retirees. Compared to states like California or Oregon, residents save thousands each year. This perk makes Las Vegas especially appealing for high earners, freelancers, and anyone who wants to stretch their paycheck further. The absence of income tax also contributes to the city’s overall affordability when compared with other Western metros.

8. Con: Hot Housing Market Volatility

Las Vegas is known for big swings in its housing market, with rapid rises and sharp drops tied to national economic conditions. Rents can jump quickly during boom years, which makes budgeting difficult for renters. While the city is still cheaper than Los Angeles or San Francisco, market instability is something to watch. Those planning to stay long-term should prepare for fluctuations in rental costs and home values.

9. Pro: Plenty of Outdoor Recreation Nearby

Nature is closer than most people think. Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Lake Mead are all less than an hour away, offering hiking, biking, kayaking, and off-roading. Living in Las Vegas gives residents easy access to both desert adventures and quick day trips into nearby mountains. Weekend getaways to Utah or California’s national parks are also within a few hours’ drive.

10. Con: Limited Green Space and Nature Access In the City

While Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead are nearby, within city limits green space can feel limited. Parks exist, but most neighborhoods lack large tree cover, shade, or walkable nature areas, especially compared to cities like Denver or Portland. Renters who prioritize outdoor recreation may find themselves needing to drive out of town frequently to feel connected to nature. Urban planning continues to add small parks, but overall greenery remains scarce.

11. Pro: Thriving Arts & Culture

Beyond entertainment, Las Vegas has grown into a city for art and culture. AREA15, Meow Wolf Omega Mart, and the 18b Arts District showcase immersive exhibits, galleries, and performance venues. The Neon Museum and Smith Center add history and performing arts, proving there’s more to the city than gaming.

12. Con: Education Challenges

Las Vegas schools generally rank lower than those in other metro areas, especially at the K–12 level. While the city has respected colleges and trade schools, families often find limited options for highly rated public schools. Parents may need to consider private education or nearby districts if quality schooling is a top priority. Education funding debates remain ongoing, which adds uncertainty to long-term improvement.

Is Las Vegas, NV, a Good Place to Live?

Yes, Las Vegas is a good place to live for renters who value affordability, entertainment, and a growing job market. One-bedroom apartments average around $1,493, while two-bedrooms are closer to $1,755, both below the national average. Renters can choose from modern high-rises near The Strip, quieter suburban-style apartments in Henderson or Summerlin, or more budget-friendly areas across the valley. With no state income tax, year-round sunshine, and expanding job opportunities, Las Vegas continues to attract new residents seeking both savings and lifestyle perks.

What’s It Like Living in Las Vegas, NV?

Living in Las Vegas means more than neon lights and casinos. Many residents enjoy the city’s desert climate, mountain views, and nearby outdoor escapes like Red Rock Canyon. On weekends, locals might hike, catch a Golden Knights ice hockey game, or dine at one of the city’s hundreds of award-winning restaurants.

Neighborhoods vary widely: Summerlin and Henderson are popular with families for their suburban feel and good schools, while Downtown Las Vegas and The Arts District attract young professionals seeking nightlife and cultural events. While summers can be brutally hot and traffic around The Strip is often congested, many renters appreciate the combination of affordability and endless things to do.

What’s the Culture Like in Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas culture is shaped by entertainment, food, and diversity. The Strip delivers world-class shows, concerts, and dining, but off-Strip areas highlight local arts and community. First Friday in the Arts District showcases local galleries, street performances, and food trucks, while Fremont Street offers live music and nightlife.

Food is a major part of daily life here. Residents can enjoy everything from celebrity-chef restaurants to hole-in-the-wall taco spots. Sports are another cultural draw, with the NFL Raiders and NHL Golden Knights bringing major-league excitement. While tourism drives much of the city’s energy, locals say Las Vegas has a growing community spirit, especially in its residential neighborhoods.

What’s the Cost of Living in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas remains more affordable than many major U.S. cities, but costs are rising. The overall cost of living is about 10% higher than the U.S. average, with healthcare, groceries, and utilities relatively affordable, but transportation and housing costs much higher.

We also took a look at how the data for cost-of-living categories broke down for Las Vegas

For renters, Las Vegas offers a relative deal compared to pricier West Coast cities. The city’s no state income tax policy also helps residents stretch their budgets further, though summer electricity bills for air conditioning can be significant.

How Is the Job Market in Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas has a job market anchored by tourism, hospitality, and entertainment, but it has been expanding into healthcare, logistics, and technology. Major employers include MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Southwest Airlines, as well as healthcare providers like Sunrise Hospital.

Unemployment in Las Vegas tends to be slightly higher than the national average, and Nevada, in particular, has the highest unemployment rate of any state in the U.S. Still, job growth in healthcare and tech is providing new opportunities, especially for renters looking to stay long-term.

How Safe Is Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas crime rates are higher than the national average, with a Crime Grade of 39.17 per 1,000 residents, especially for property crimes such as burglary and theft. Neighborhoods near Downtown and Fremont Street see more incidents, given their concentration of nightlife and tourists, while suburban areas like Summerlin and Henderson report lower crime levels.

According to CrimeGrade.org, Las Vegas earns a D grade for overall crime. Renters should check neighborhood-level data before moving, as safety can vary widely across the metro.

What Are Schools Like in Las Vegas, NV?

Schools in Las Vegas are part of the Clark County School District (CCSD), the fifth-largest in the U.S. While ratings vary, CCSD overall has lower performance scores compared to many other metro areas, which can be a drawback for families. Still, some high schools and charter programs earn strong reviews. For higher education, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers research and hospitality programs that attract students nationwide.

Is Las Vegas, NV, a Good Place to Raise a Family?

Las Vegas can be a good place for families, especially in suburban neighborhoods such as Summerlin, Centennial Hills, and nearby Henderson. Families often appreciate the lower housing costs compared to California, the abundance of parks, and year-round sunshine.

That said, public school quality varies, and safety concerns in some neighborhoods may be drawbacks. Families looking for strong schools and quieter streets often focus on master-planned communities outside the city core.

What Are Some Popular Neighborhoods in Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas neighborhoods range from entertainment-focused areas near The Strip to suburban communities with more space and schools.

Here’s a look at average rent prices in some of the city’s most popular spots:

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. Renters will find everything from sleek high-rises near The Strip to spacious suburban apartments in Henderson or Summerlin.

However, the city comes with trade-offs, including summer heat, traffic, and mixed safety ratings. If you’re weighing your options, check out more Renter Life guides to compare cities. Ready to see if Las Vegas is the right fit for you? Take our Apartment List quiz to find your best rental match today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Las Vegas, NV

What are the downsides of living in Las Vegas?

The main downsides of living in Las Vegas include extremely hot summers, limited public transportation, and higher-than-average crime rates. Traffic congestion near The Strip can also be frustrating. Additionally, job stability may be tied to tourism and hospitality, which can be sensitive to economic downturns.

Why are people moving to Las Vegas?

People are moving to Las Vegas for affordable housing compared to California, no state income tax, and year-round sunshine. The city also offers growing job opportunities in healthcare, logistics, and technology. Retirees and remote workers are drawn to the lower cost of living and access to entertainment and outdoor recreation.

What are the biggest risks of living in Las Vegas?

The biggest risks include financial vulnerability due to a tourism-driven economy, exposure to heat, and variable neighborhood safety. Water scarcity and long-term drought concerns in Southern Nevada also raise questions about sustainability. Renters should weigh these risks alongside the city’s economic and lifestyle advantages.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Las Vegas?

To live comfortably in Las Vegas, a single renter typically needs around $50,000–$60,000 per year, according to MIT Living Wage. For a family of four, the range is closer to $120,000 annually, depending on housing location and lifestyle. These figures cover housing, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and other daily expenses.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Las Vegas?

To live comfortably in Las Vegas, a single renter typically needs around $50,000–$60,000 per year, according to MIT Living Wage. For a family of four, the range is closer to $120,000 annually, depending on housing location and lifestyle. These figures cover housing, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and other daily expenses.