Moving to Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas is well known as the City of Sin, the world’s capital of glitz, glamour, gambling and excess.  Millions of people visit its infamous strip to partake in its indulgences, ranging from pools to poker to $1 shrimp cocktails.  The Vegas strip is the heart of the city, a drag that never stops beating.

But Las Vegas is more than just a gambling haven.  It is a sprawling, growing metropolis filled with industry, activities and world-class dining.  It is also near many awe-striking geographical wonders.

Las Vegas’ Layout

Las Vegas is located in a flat desert valley.  The desert valley, however, is at a higher elevation than nearby deserts, like that of Phoenix, Arizona, and Death Valley, California, so Vegas experiences slightly lower temperatures.  The desert itself is extremely sparse and rocky; however, it’s not devoid of water.  Nearby Lake Mead feeds into the world-famous Hoover Dam.

Las Vegas’ metropolitan area includes the neighboring city of Paradise, which actually covers a portion of the Las Vegas strip and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).  Together, they are home to just over 1.9 million people.

Positives of Moving to Las Vegas

Weather – Las Vegas’ weather is capable of extremes.  It often drops below freezing during winter nights, and during the summer it soars into the 110’s.  Nevertheless, for much of the year, it is a sunny and pleasantly warm place to live.

Entertainment – The Las Vegas strip hauls in a ton of world-class entertainment, from acrobatics to comedians to music.  Think Cirque du Soleil and Jerry Seinfeld.  Additionally, many conferences and shows are held in Las Vegas, allowing bosses and employees to make fools of themselves in just about every field that exists.

Vice – Sin City isn’t all that bad.  Partaking in the occasional craps game, shopping spree, and pool party is good for the soul, if done responsibly.  The Vegas strip offers more fun per square meter than any other city (very unscientific fact).

Prices – Las Vegas’ home prices are quite low, as is its cost of living.  Even those with meager means can live comfortably in Las Vegas and still enjoy its amenities.

Negatives of Moving to Las Vegas

Urban Sprawl – Las Vegas, like so many Western cities, suffers severely from urban sprawl.  Since the 1950’s, and even more notably since the last 20 years, the city has seen rapid expansion out into suburbs and strip malls.  Accordingly, getting from place to place usually requires a lengthy drive.

Temptation – Those who have trouble staying away from partying might have a tough time in Las Vegas.  Its casinos, including their bars, stay open all night long, making them tempting traps for those with impulsive personalities.

Sustainability – Las Vegas is not located on a body of water, not even a river.  It is in the middle of a desert, and it is heavily dependent on water from far away sources (Lake Mead provides hydroelectric power, but not water to the city, and it is currently experiencing record lows).  In the event of drastic climate change or a water shortage, Las Vegas might be one of the first cities to crumble.  Buyers beware.

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