Is Las Vegas a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons

Las Vegas, with its glitz, glamor, and vibrant entertainment scene, has long been synonymous with a thrilling vacation destination. However, when it comes to choosing a place to call home, many wonder if Las Vegas truly offers a desirable living environment. To help you make an informed decision, let’s explore the pros and cons of living in Las Vegas. 

From the excitement of world-class entertainment and access to outdoor pursuits to the challenges of scorching summers and traffic congestion, Las Vegas presents many different factors to consider. So, whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Las Vegas, purchase a home in the area on Redfin, or simply curious about what it’s like living in Las Vegas, join us as we delve into the pros and cons to help you determine if Las Vegas is the right place for you to put down roots.

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Quick Facts about Las Vegas

1. Pro: There are an abundance of activities

Las Vegas, known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” offers an unparalleled number of activities for visitors of all interests. From iconic resorts along the famous Las Vegas Strip like Mandalay Bay and the Venetian to downtown’s Fremont Street, visitors can explore an array of casinos, live performances, and stage productions. Beyond the gaming and entertainment scene, Las Vegas also offers luxurious shopping experiences, championship golf courses, and rejuvenating spas. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, such as the nearby Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam. Additionally, Las Vegas boasts a wide range of gourmet dining options, from celebrity chef restaurants to international cuisines. Some of which include Bouchon, Peppermill, and Carson Kitchen.

“The locals love their city, and it shows,” shares Marlon A. Medina, Marketing Director at GOLDEN MEDINA SERVICES. “There’s a real sense of community with food truck festivals, farmers’ markets, and a growing Arts District that gives the city its own creative heartbeat. With 300+ sunny days a year, outdoor dining and rooftop bars are basically a lifestyle here.”

“The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Las Vegas is a must-visit! For nearly 30 years, we’ve provided a welcoming space for community-led worship, social events, and local services, including a monthly food pantry,” shares Maggie Mooha, President, Board of Trustees, UUCLV. “Amidst life’s constant changes, UUCLV remains a comforting place to connect and build relationships with kind, interesting people across the Las Vegas Valley.”

2. Con: The summer heat

Las Vegas is notorious for its scorching summer heat, creating challenging conditions for residents and visitors. With temperatures often soaring well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), the intense heat can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. While nearly every building is air-conditioned and resort-style pools offer a way to cool off, the relentless summer heat can still feel overwhelming for some.

3. Pro: Year-round sunshine and mild winters

That said, Las Vegas’ climate isn’t all about the heat. With over 300 sunny days per year, residents rarely have to worry about rain interfering with their plans, and the mild winters make it easy to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

 “One of the biggest perks of living in Las Vegas is the weather,” shares Mike Kelly, founder of No Cover Nightclubs. “With over 300 sunny days per year, residents rarely have to worry about rain ruining their plans. The mild winters make it easy to enjoy outdoor activities, while the dry summer heat is often more tolerable than the humidity in other states. If it gets too hot, there are plenty of pools, lakes, and indoor attractions to help you stay cool.”

4: Con: Tourism crowds and traffic

Las Vegas attracts millions of visitors each year, making tourism a major driver of the local economy—but it also means dealing with large crowds and heavy traffic. The Strip and downtown areas can be packed with tourists, especially on weekends, holidays, and during major conventions or events. This influx of visitors often leads to long wait times at popular restaurants, packed parking garages, and gridlocked streets.

Traffic congestion is particularly frustrating for residents who need to commute through or near high-tourism areas. Rideshare prices frequently surge during peak hours, and public transportation options remain limited, leaving many locals reliant on personal vehicles. While avoiding tourist hotspots can help, the city’s growing popularity means traffic challenges are an ongoing issue.

5. Pro: Food scene

Las Vegas has established itself as a food lover’s paradise, offering a remarkable culinary scene that rivals some of the world’s finest cities. Renowned for its diverse and extravagant dining options, Las Vegas boasts a multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chef establishments like Piccaso, Joel Robuchon, Gordon Ramsay Steak, and Giada.  “The food scene is incredible. Whether you’re craving street tacos, fine dining, or international flavors, Las Vegas has it all. There are countless amazing restaurants both on and off The Strip, reflecting the city’s diversity and rich cultural influences,” says Vegas Linqs.

The Las Vegas Strip alone is home to a staggering array of dining choices, where visitors can savor cuisines from around the globe, including Japanese, Italian, French, Mexican, and many more. Additionally, Las Vegas hosts numerous food festivals and events throughout the year, such as The Great American Foodie Fest and San Gennaro Feast. For those seeking a more casual dining experience, Las Vegas also offers an array of bustling food courts and food trucks like Block 16 Urban Food Hall and Eataly Food Court at Park MGM.

4. Con: Lack of public transportation

One of the challenges in Las Vegas is the limited availability and effectiveness of public transportation. While the city has made efforts to improve its transportation infrastructure, including the implementation of a bus system and the Las Vegas Monorail, the overall public transportation network remains relatively underdeveloped compared to other major cities.

 The bus system, while serving some areas, may not offer comprehensive coverage, resulting in longer travel times and limited access to certain destinations. The Las Vegas Monorail primarily operates along the Las Vegas Strip, making it convenient for travelers staying in that area but less useful for those needing to reach other parts of the city. As a result, many residents and visitors rely heavily on private vehicles or rideshares to navigate Las Vegas.

7. Pro: Access to nature

Despite its reputation as a bustling city of lights, Las Vegas provides easy access to breathtaking natural wonders and outdoor recreational opportunities. One of the most popular destinations is the nearby Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, known for its striking red sandstone formations and picturesque hiking trails. Adventurers can embark on scenic drives, rock climbing adventures, or simply take in the views. Moreover, within a few hours’ drive, outdoor enthusiasts can reach several national parks, including Death Valley National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park. 

“Paddleboarding through Emerald Cave at Willow Beach is a must-do experience,” recommends Las Vegas Paddleboard. “Where you can glide through vibrant green waters surrounded by towering canyon walls—an outdoor adventure that feels like discovering a secret oasis in the desert.”

“If you really wanted to, you could ski on Mount Charleston in the morning and kayak the Colorado River in the afternoon. Vegas can offer a unique lifestyle that blends urban living with a love for nature,” shares, psychologist Luke Allen, PhD.

8. Con: Lack of greenery

One of the drawbacks of Las Vegas is its noticeable lack of greenery. The desert landscape surrounding the city means that lush vegetation and expansive green spaces are scarce. Instead, visitors and residents are greeted with a predominance of arid desert terrain characterized by rocky terrain, sparse vegetation, and a limited presence of trees and plants. This scarcity of greenery can make the city feel stark and somewhat monotonous in terms of natural scenery. 

9. Pro: No state income tax

One of the significant advantages of living or working in Las Vegas is there is no state income tax, as Nevada does not impose a personal income tax on its residents. This favorable tax environment means that individuals can keep a larger portion of their earnings compared to many other states in the United States. 

10. High utility costs

Las Vegas’ desert climate means residents rely heavily on air conditioning for much of the year, leading to high electricity bills, especially in the summer months when temperatures soar past 100 degrees. Water costs can also be a concern due to conservation efforts and restrictions related to the ongoing drought. On average, utility costs in Las Vegas are about 14% higher than the national average, making it an important factor for those considering a move. While energy-efficient appliances and drought-friendly landscaping can help reduce expenses, the cost of staying cool and conserving water can still add up quickly.

11. Pro: A well-connected and growing city

Las Vegas isn’t just a tourism hub—it’s also a city with an expanding infrastructure, making it an increasingly convenient place to live. Its status as a global travel destination means residents benefit from a well-connected airport, major highways, and easy access to services that attract people from all over the world.

“Las Vegas is a fantastic place to live, especially for those in the medical tourism field,” mentions Bernie Hanna, president of Las Vegas Bariatrics. “With a strong healthcare infrastructure and advanced surgical facilities, Las Vegas is an ideal destination. Its status as a global travel hub makes it easy for patients and their loved ones to access top-tier medical services from anywhere in the world.”

As the city continues to grow, Las Vegas has invested in its healthcare system, education, and business opportunities, making it an appealing place not just for visitors, but for long-term residents looking for convenience and accessibility.

12. Con: Water scarcity and drought conditions

Las Vegas relies heavily on the Colorado River, which has faced historic drought conditions in recent years. Lake Mead’s declining water levels have led to strict conservation measures, including restrictions on lawn irrigation and incentives for drought-resistant landscaping. While the city recycles nearly all indoor water and has some of the most aggressive water management policies in the country, water scarcity remains a growing concern.

As Las Vegas continues to expand, many residents worry about the long-term sustainability of growth in the region. While conservation efforts have helped, the city’s dependence on a limited water supply makes it vulnerable to ongoing climate challenges.

13. Pro: The heart of Las Vegas is its people

While Las Vegas is often associated with bright lights, casinos, and entertainment, many locals say the real heart of the city lies in its people. Beyond the tourism industry, there’s a strong sense of community among residents who take pride in making Las Vegas a welcoming and vibrant place to live.

“Las Vegas is a great place to live. Not so much for the lights and entertainment, but because of the people who keep the engine that is Las Vegas running,” shares LVL Up Physical Therapy. “The residents who work so hard to provide the amazing hospitality, and comfort that allows this great city to be a location that draws people from all over the world.”

14. Con: You can’t see stars

One disappointing aspect of Las Vegas is the difficulty in seeing stars due to light pollution. The city’s vibrant nightlife and dazzling displays along the famous Las Vegas Strip create a continuous glow that permeates the sky, obscuring the natural beauty of the stars. The abundance of bright lights, neon signs, and illuminated buildings results in light pollution, which significantly diminishes the visibility of celestial objects. If you want to go star-gazing, expect to drive well outside the city before you begin to see twinkles in the night’s sky.

15. An up-and-coming sports city

Las Vegas has rapidly become a major destination for professional and competitive sports, transforming from an entertainment hub to a full-fledged sports city. In recent years, the city has welcomed several major teams and events:

• Vegas Golden Knights (NHL) – Established in 2017, the Golden Knights made an immediate impact, reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season (2018) and winning their first championship in 2023.
• Las Vegas Raiders (NFL) – Formerly the Oakland Raiders, the team relocated to Las Vegas in 2020. They now play at Allegiant Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue just off the Strip.
• Las Vegas Aces (WNBA) – The city’s professional women’s basketball team has quickly become a dominant force in the league, earning multiple championship titles and building a strong fan base.

Beyond professional teams, Las Vegas also hosts major sporting events year-round, from high-profile boxing matches and UFC fights to the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. “While Las Vegas is known as the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World, it also hosts major sporting and entertainment events annually, along with specialized events for outdoor enthusiasts,” mentions L’Étape Las Vegas.

One such event is L’Étape Las Vegas, presented by the Tour de France, which offers amateur cyclists the opportunity to experience the thrill of professional racing. “Riders can choose from four course options, ranging from a 14-mile Family Ride to 25-, 45-, and 75-mile routes for more advanced cyclists,” they add. “Did we mention that the average temperature on event day—May 4—is a pleasant 83 degrees?”

16. Con: No four seasons

One aspect that some may find disappointing about Las Vegas is the absence of four distinct seasons. The city’s desert climate contributes to hot, dry summers and mild winters, with relatively little variation throughout the year. This lack of distinct seasonal changes can make it feel as though the year blends together without clear transitions between spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit