Las Vegas NV

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
576
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 36
Demographics 77
Economy 66
Education 48
Health 50
Housing 61
Infrastructure 56

#71. Las Vegas, NV

People who live in Las Vegas will tell you: living in Vegas is very different from visiting Vegas. Can residents still enjoy the entertainment and amazing food that draws millions of tourists to this city every year? Of course. But look beyond The Strip, and you’ll find a culturally diverse, tight-knit community that’s obsessed with exploring the stunning natural areas surrounding the city.

Las Vegas earned high scores for diversity, amenities (obviously — good luck running out of things to do here!) and economics, thanks to a strong local economy with a steady stream of job opportunities in hospitality, marketing and, increasingly, technology. If you’re looking for a fresh start in an exciting and evolving city, Vegas is a great place to build a life, career and community.

Local Obsession: If you’re moving to Vegas, you better be a Golden Knights fan or prepare to be converted! The NHL team has taken the city by storm since it was established in 2017.

Climate Described in 6 Words Or Less: Wear sunscreen.

Top Industries and Employers: Casinos, hotels and restaurants employ thousands of Las Vegas residents in a wide variety of roles, but other opportunities are available at companies like Zappos and International Gaming Technology.

Local Dream Job: A concert booker for one of the city’s many famous venues. Our personal favorite? The Pearl Theater at The Palms.  

Quintessential Meal: The Vegas food scene runs the spectrum from quirky dives to some of the most high-end dining establishments in the world — and Vegas residents love and eat it all. Check out John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill for awesome backyard BBQ, or head to Momofuku Las Vegas for black truffle ramen and Wagyu beef. 

Favorite Weekend Activity: Outdoor adventures. Vegas is within a day’s drive of many beautiful spots, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Joshua Tree and Grand Canyon National Parks. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, head to L.A. or Palm Springs for a weekend. 

After-Work Meetup Spot: Downtown Summerlin is an easy choice for after-work cocktails or coffee! Located within five minutes of the famous Red Rock National Recreation Area, the walkable outdoor mall is a hub of local restaurants and coffee shops, like Makers & Finders and Andiron.

Best Brewery: Banger Brewing, a locally-owned craft beer company where the focus is on “fresh ingredients and a love for our city.”

Free Way to Have Fun: Hiking — the natural areas around the city are truly a sight to behold and residents here make the most of their location.  

Truly Hidden Gem: Black Sheep is a must-try. A true hole-in-the-wall located in a nondescript strip mall, the restaurant is cozy and modern on the inside, with an extensive wine list and edgy, delicious American-Vietnamese plates.

– Winona Dimeo-Ediger

Read More:

Looking for a Fresh Start? Las Vegas May Be the Spot for You

Las Vegas is One of the 10 Best Places to Take in a Meteor Shower

Newsletter Sign Up

Keep up to date with our latest rankings and articles!
Enter your email to be added to our mailing list.