Overview
Las Vegas offers more than casinos and nightlife. With no state income tax, affordable housing, year-round sunshine, and growing job opportunities beyond hospitality, Vegas attracts remote workers, retirees, and young professionals from expensive California markets.
Why People Move to Las Vegas
- No state income tax
- Very affordable housing
- Year-round sunshine (300+ days)
- Growing tech and healthcare sectors
- World-class entertainment and dining
Average Moving Costs to Las Vegas
| From | Studio/1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (270 mi) | $1,200-$2,000 | $2,000-$3,400 |
| Phoenix (300 mi) | $1,300-$2,200 | $2,200-$3,600 |
| San Francisco (570 mi) | $2,000-$3,200 | $3,200-$5,200 |
| Denver (760 mi) | $2,400-$4,000 | $4,000-$6,400 |
* Estimates for professional full-service moves. DIY moves with rental trucks typically cost 40-60% less.
Best Neighborhoods for Newcomers
Summerlin
Avg Rent: $1,500-$2,400 (1BR)
Master-planned community with excellent schools, parks, and Red Rock access.
Henderson
Avg Rent: $1,400-$2,200 (1BR)
Family-friendly suburb with lower crime, good amenities, and value.
Downtown Arts District
Avg Rent: $1,200-$1,900 (1BR)
Revitalized area with galleries, restaurants, and urban vibe.
Green Valley
Avg Rent: $1,300-$2,100 (1BR)
Established suburb with good schools and family amenities.
Cost of Living in Las Vegas
- Rent (1BR)$1,200-$1,800/month average
- GroceriesAbout 5% above national average
- Dining out$12-$22 casual, $40-$100+ upscale
- State income taxNone (0%)
Utilities & Services
Electric
NV Energy
$150-$300/month (summer AC intensive)
Internet
Cox, CenturyLink
$50-$80/month
Water
Las Vegas Valley Water
$30-$60/month
Gas
Southwest Gas
$20-$50/month
Job Market in Las Vegas
- Hospitality and gaming - MGM, Caesars, Wynn
- Healthcare expanding rapidly
- Tech sector growing with Switch data centers
- Construction and development
- Remote workers from California
Transportation in Las Vegas
Public Transit
RTC buses and monorail on Strip. Limited coverage. Car essential.
Car
Essential for residents. Traffic manageable outside Strip area.
Biking
Challenging due to extreme heat and sprawl. Some trails available.
Moving Tips for Las Vegas
Best Time to Move
October-April for pleasant weather. Avoid May-September when temps exceed 100°F regularly.
Things to Know Before Moving
- Avoid living near the Strip for better quality of life
- Electric bills skyrocket in summer - budget accordingly
- Pool access is nearly essential for summer months
- Many California transplants - familiar culture
Pros and Cons of Living in Las Vegas
Pros
- +No state income tax
- +Affordable housing
- +Entertainment options
- +Easy California access
- +Outdoor recreation nearby
Cons
- -Extreme summer heat
- -Gambling addiction risks
- -Transient population
- -Limited public transit
- -Water scarcity concerns