10 Myths About Moving from California to Las Vegas

moving to las vegas from california

So, you’re thinking about moving to Las Vegas from California. Look no further, because you’ve arrived at THE spot for information on the topic. In fact, we’re going to cover what Californians moving to Las Vegas really need to know about living in the area.

From crazy myths to the cold hard facts on what’s made Las Vegas so attractive for retirement, we’ll be dishing out all the information you’ve been searching for about moving to Vegas from California. Let’s get started!

Moving to Las Vegas from California

You may be following the great “California Exodus”. It’s no secret that the trend of Californians moving to Las Vegas, Nevada has been steadily increasing in recent years thanks to undesirable factors in California such as declining affordability, high taxes and heavy traffic. In fact, typically over 50,000 California residents moved across state lines into Nevada each year.

You’ve also may have seen headlines about the problems or drawbacks to living in Las Vegas. Like anything in life, there’s two sides to every story.

To end the confusion, we take 10 of the common myths about moving from California to Las Vegas head-on and set the record straight!

Myths About Moving to Las Vegas from California

Myth: It’s always 100+ degrees

Some believe that Las Vegas is always scorching hot no matter what time of year. This however, isn’t true. Yes, the 3-4 summer months are hot and regularly reach over 100 degrees. If you buy a house in Summerlin, you will benefit from slightly cooler temperatures, since the community is at elevation. Other times of the year are known for cool, crisp mornings and beautifully warm afternoons. Expect a lot of 70 and 80 degree days, plus over 300 days of sunshine each year!

Myth: The healthcare is poor

Las Vegas healthcare has come a long way. There are now several top-tier medical facilities in the city and a new medical school at UNLV. You can learn more about Las Vegas’ healthcare, but just know that the city cares about your health and wellness!

Myth: It’s a dangerous city

There is crime in Las Vegas, just like any other major city. It’s up to you to do your research on crime rates in the areas you’re interested in living, as the statistics and data vary from place to place. You can find this information on various government and informational websites.

Myth: Las Vegas has a lower quality of lifestyle

Some people think because you’re moving from the California to Las Vegas that you’ll be sacrificing your quality of living. After all, what place could ever be better – or even match – California, with it’s beaches, mountains and overall cool California vibe?

But many who’ve made the move say otherwise. In a 2019 Wall Street Journal article titled “As California Loses People, a Las Vegas Suburb Grows”, a former California man who moved from San Diego to Henderson, NV was quoted saying “My quality of life went up the day I moved here.”

Another man named Don told us that after moving from Orange County, California to Las Vegas, he felt that: “Moving to Las Vegas was the best thing I ever did. Even better than my original move to California.”

You see, Las Vegas has really transformed itself in the last decade. The city has tons of luxury communities that rival California's, but at a much lower price. It’s gone from “Sin City” to become one of the best places to live.

fremont hotel and casino las vegas

Myth: The casinos aren’t what they used to be

It’s true that in many cases, the good ole’ days of free drinks and comped hotel rooms are gone. But the gaming experience today in Las Vegas has so much to offer everyone, no matter their experience or level of interest. Major Strip casinos and local favorites alike offer world-class, fun experiences that everyone can enjoy – both on the gaming floor and away from it.

Myth: The job market is bad

It’s true that once upon a time, Las Vegas used to be majorly dependent on its tourism/gaming/hospitality industries for jobs. While still a large job provider in the area, Las Vegas has worked to diversify and has seen a number of major employers come into the city recently, including Google and Amazon. Plus, the state’s job market is strong. A 2019 report from the U.S. Labor Department noted that Nevada led the nation in employment growth rate. How’s that for a job market?

Myth: The food doesn’t compare to California’s

California has some amazing restaurants, don’t get me wrong. But it’s impossible to overlook Las Vegas’ emerging food scene. There are more than 2,000 restaurants; from fine dining and celebrity chefs to steakhouses, seafood and healthy vegan restaurants (don’t forget the outstanding Mexican food!) there’s tasty food for every craving!

Great Local Restaurants to Try

• Nittaya’s Secret Kitchen
• La Strega
• Golden Steer Steakhouse
• Marché Bacchus
• Piero’s Italian Cuisine
• Honey Salt
• Juan’s Flaming Fajitas & Cantina
• Ventano Italian Grill & Seafood
• CRAFT Kitchen
• Ping Pang Pong
• Top of the World

Myth: The only thing to do is gamble

Maybe 25 years ago this was more accurate. But today, things are way different. Las Vegas is not just casinos and clubs, not even close. In fact, the city has world-class family-friendly entertainment and a booming outdoor activity scene.

New Family-Friendly Entertainment Options

We can’t forget to mention all the great new entertainment options that have recently come to the city, either!

• Las Vegas Raiders NFL Football (and concerts at the brand-new Allegiant Stadium!)
• Las Vegas Golden Knights Hockey
• T-Mobile Arena
MSG Sphere

lake mead national recreation area nv

Myth: You spend all your time indoors

Not true! Las Vegas is serious about their outdoors! Check out these fun outdoor activities you can do in Las Vegas:

• Horseback Riding
• ATV or Dune Buggy Driving
• Colorado River Kayaking
• Lake Mead Boating
• Hiking the Black Mountain Trail
• Lee Canyon Ski Resort
• Biking the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop

Myth: The tax differences don’t make a big difference

Californians moving to Las Vegas will be escaping one of the highest tax rates in the nation, including the highest personal income tax level of 13.3%. Meanwhile, Nevada is famous for having no state income tax, along with many other low tax rates. Learn more about the taxes in Nevada vs. California.

Ready to Move from California to Las Vegas?

Contact a Las Vegas Real Estate Relocation Specialist

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