Moving to Las Vegas: Complete Moving Guide 2024

By: Emily Kirschenbaum Last Updated: Jan 01, 2024

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Don’t be fooled by the nickname Sin City, there are plenty of wholesome activities in Las Vegas too. Read on for all the details you need to know before moving to Las Vegas.


Moving to Las Vegas: Complete Moving Guide 2024

There is way more to Las Vegas than its reputation for casinos, nightlife and luxurious hotels. It’s a growing city and metropolitan area that attracts people looking for great weather, exciting job opportunities and easy access to beautiful nature and national parks in Utah, Arizona and California in addition to other parts of Nevada.

Whether you are looking for the party-life or a nice, safe place to call home and raise a family, moving to Las Vegas might just be the right decision for you. This article will give you all the dirt – the pros and cons and what you can expect once you get there and will hopefully help make your decision easier.


Why Move to Las Vegas?

An up-and-coming place to live, there is any number of reasons why one might want to move to Las Vegas, but some of the key draws include:

  • Weather: Las Vegas has a warm and sunny climate with very little rain, making it a great place to partake in outdoor activities year-round and little need for heavy winter coats and snow boots.
  • Entertainment: Widely considered the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas has a vast array of shows, concerts, and other events happening on any given day. There is always something to see or do, whether catching the performance of a famous artist, trying your luck at a casino or exploring any of the city’s museums.
  • Affordability: Compared to other major cities in the US, Las Vegas has a relatively low cost of living. Housing, utilities, and groceries are all fairly reasonably priced and there is no state income tax.
  • Business Opportunities: Las Vegas is a fast-growing city with a booming economy. It is home to a number of industries, including hospitality, gaming, and healthcare and it’s also become an attractive place for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Location: Situated in the southwestern part of the country, Las Vegas is a gateway to many popular destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Lake Tahoe, and Zion National Park. It’s also a short drive to Los Angeles and other cities in California.

How Much Does it Cost to Move to Las Vegas?

Moving to Las Vegas can cost anywhere from $450 to $14500. The chart below will give you a better idea of what your specific move may cost, but keep in mind that the price can change radically based on the distance and size of your move.

Type of Service 1 Bedroom 2-3 Bedrooms 4-5 Bedrooms
DIY/Truck Rental $450 – $2250 $700 – $4250 $1600 – $4850
Moving Container $750 – $2750 $1200 – $5000 $2400 – $7900
Full Service $1300 – $3900 $1900 – $8800 $3500 – $14500

If you’re interested in learning more about the costs involved in moving, we got some great articles that you might find helpful. Check them out!


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What are the Pros and Cons of Moving to Las Vegas?

The Pros The Cons
  • Low cost of living
  • Plenty of things to do
  • Mild weather (most of the year)
  • Fabulous food scene
  • No state income tax
  • Summer heat
  • Transient, no sense of community
  • Poor school system
  • Lack of public transportation
  • Desert climate, no greenery

What’s the Cost of Living in Las Vegas?

On average, a family of four (2 employed parents and 2 children) needs to earn just over $100,000 to live comfortably in Las Vegas. Depending on the exact location in the city as well as certain lifestyle choices, it is possible to live on less or a family may require significantly more.

In general, Las Vegas is considered an affordable city to live in as compared to other major US cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,100 per month and the median home price is $350,000.

The cost of food varies with an inexpensive restaurant charging $10-$15 for a meal while a mid-range restaurant has offerings in the $20-$30 range. A gallon of milk costs on average $3, with bread costing $2.50 and a dozen eggs also going for $2.50.

People in Las Vegas often spend money on going out and taking advantage of all the entertainment options. Shows and concerts cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars a ticket.


Where are the Best Neighborhoods to Live in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a vibrant and diverse city with many great neighborhoods to choose from, depending on personal preferences and the lifestyle you are looking for.

Whether you are a retiree, a single professional, or a family, you’ll be able to find a neighborhood that best suits your needs.

Following are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Las Vegas:

1. Summerlin

Located on the west side of Las Vegas, Summerlin is a planned community with excellent schools, parks, and outdoor recreational activities. It’s a great option for young and more established families and anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle.

2. Henderson

A suburb located southeast of downtown Las Vegas, Henderson offers a great quality of life, good schools, and a strong sense of community. It also has many beautiful parks, safe streets, and well-maintained public spaces.

3. Centennial Hills

This neighborhood is situated in the northwest part of the city and is known for having a family-friendly environment, affordable housing options, and easy access to outdoor recreation places like Mount Charleston and Red Rock Canyon.

4. Downtown Las Vegas

For party animals or people looking for a more urban experience, downtown Las Vegas is a great option. There is a thriving arts and culture scene, and world-class restaurants and the downtown area is just north of the famous Las Vegas Strip with all the hotels and casinos.

5. Spring Valley

On the southwest side of Las Vegas, Spring Valley boasts a diverse population with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It is also in close proximity to the Las Vegas Strip and offers great shopping and dining options.

6. Peccole Ranch

Peccole Ranch offers its residents a mix of urban and suburban life. Most people in this neighborhood rent instead of owning their homes, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

7. Skye Canyon

Located very close to Mt. Charleston, Skye Canyon is a popular location for hikers, skiers, and other outdoor lovers. There is a range of housing options, making this area attractive to people at all stages of life.

8. Lake Las Vegas

Located on a lake, this area offers resort-style living with many residents driving around in golf carts. The beautiful surroundings make you forget how close you actually are to the flashing lights of the Las Vegas Strip, and Lake Las Vegas is home to celebrities due to the seclusion and privacy.

9. The Arts District

Part of the downtown area, the Arts District is a fun neighborhood that attracts creatives, college students, and young professionals. A mix of modern apartments and older single-family homes, the Arts District has a plethora of trendy bars and fun places to hang out.

10. Southern Highlands

Southern Highlands is an up-and-coming neighborhood conveniently located in the southern foothills of the city, very close to the I-15 freeway. There are houses ranging from the norm to custom estates selling for over $10 million.


How is the Job Market in Las Vegas?

It’s probably no surprise that tourism and gaming are the most popular industries in Las Vegas, with plenty of job opportunities.

Tourism/hospitality is the largest employment sector in the city with major casinos and hotel chains like MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts offering a multitude of different job options.

These range from customer service roles to finance, marketing, and management positions. The city’s convention center and trade show industry are also major employers, especially in the areas of event planning, sales, and marketing.

Las Vegas is also home to a growing tech industry with companies like Zappos, Amazon and Tesla all operating there. Healthcare is growing too and there are several large hospitals with opportunities for doctors and nurses in different medical specialties.

In general, the job market in Las Vegas is fairly diverse and offers ample opportunities for job seekers with a wide range of backgrounds, skill sets, and interests.


What is Las Vegas Most Known for?

Las Vegas is most famously known for its glamorous casino industry. The city is home to some of the most iconic and lavish casinos in the world, including the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the MGM Grand.

These casinos offer lots of gaming options including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and sports betting. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy the excitement and glamour of Las Vegas casinos and the celebrity performers who are often featured.

While the city is often associated with the bright lights and bustling activity of the Strip, there is also a wide range of outdoor activities that are unique to the Las Vegas area.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a short drive from the Strip and has a stunning landscape made up of sandstone cliffs, canyons, and rock formations.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is also just a short distance away with opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.


What are the Best Schools and Universities in Las Vegas?

There are several high-quality and prestigious academic institutions in Las Vegas, including:

  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas which is known for programs in hospitality, law, and business.
  • College of Southern Nevada attracts students interested in nursing, dental hygiene, and automotive technology.
  • Nevada State College which has strong programs in education, nursing, and psychology.

While not known for having the best public school system in the country, there are a few private and public schools known for high academics in Las Vegas, including:

  • Bishop Gorman High School is a private, Catholic high school with excellent academics and athletics.
  • The Meadows School is a private, non-sectarian school with a challenging curriculum and focuses on character development.
  • Advanced Technologies Academy, is a public magnet school offering specialized programs in engineering, graphic design, and information technology.

FAQ

What are some steps to take before moving to Las Vegas?

First, you should seek out and book reliable long distance movers – you can start with the ones we recommend above. You should also change your address with the post office and cancel any relevant utilities and subscriptions, as well as set up new accounts at your new address.

Is there an ideal season to move to Las Vegas?

It is best to move to Las Vegas during the off-season, which would be from September to November or February to April. These are the months when there are fewer tourists in Las Vegas, making a move easier. Moving off-season will also give you cheaper prices as movers are generally less busy at that time.

What are some ways to save money on a move to Las Vegas?

If you are moving to Las Vegas from several states away or from across the country, it might be expensive to hire a full-service moving company. You do have a few options if you want to save some money, including taking on some of the work yourself.

For instance, movers will charge less if you handle all the packing and unpacking yourself. You can also try to get free or low-cost packing supplies from local businesses. Cutting back on the number of belongings you have to move will also keep costs down.

Are there any items that I can’t have the movers take for me?

There are some items that moving companies will not move. These may include pets, motorcycles, cars, house plants, hazardous or flammable materials, and more. It is best to consult with your movers to avoid any issues.

It is also recommended that you leave valuable possessions out of your moving truck, such as jewelry, documents, valuable electronics, and items of sentimental value.


Sin City Here You Come!

As you get ready to embark on your new life in Las Vegas, make sure you get off on the right foot by hiring a moving company that will provide a seamless and stress-free experience.