Las Vegas Description/Overview

The residents of the Las Vegas area often remark that living here is quite different from what the tourists see. Many people picture a Las Vegas retirement as one filled with trips to the casino, a variety of entertainment and a smorgasbord of cheap buffets. Sure, these are all great options for the residents of Las Vegas, but rarely is it the norm for most of the areas retirement population. In fact, many people who move here will tell you that trips to the strip or the casino are rare. Many people have moved to Las Vegas for reasons other than the gaming and entertainment industry. In fact, the area has become so popular that the National Association of Homebuilders predicts it could become the number one retirement destination within the next 10 years. With a population growth of around 50,000 new residents a year, the area has already seen a major boom in homebuilding to keep up with the pace of new arrivals.

Many people who choose Las Vegas for retirement bypass the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas and instead opt for an active retirement community 20 miles south of the strip in Henderson. Henderson has boomed in the last several decades into a major retirement destination. The Henderson area is home to numerous active adult communities offering countless amenities and social activities to suit nearly any lifestyle.

In the mid-1980s, Henderson was home to just 10,000 people. Now the population has swelled to over 200,000. Henderson has consistently ranked as one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country over the last decade with consistent years of double digit percentage growth. Henderson is not just a retirement destination, however. The area is home to many all-ages master planned communities that have been popular with younger adults and families. In addition, the Las Vegas and Henderson area is plentiful with work opportunities for both younger adults and retirees.

The Las Vegas climate is a draw for many northerners who seek out warm winters and hot summers. January highs usually peak around 60 degrees but hot summers can mean many days that top out at over 100 degrees. Despite the high heat of the summers, the desert climate allows for comfortable mornings and evenings. Many people will enjoy their outdoor activities either early or late in the day but take advantage of the cool air conditioning in the afternoon. And with dozens of golf courses, several lakes and nearby mountains, the Las Vegas area provides ample opportunity for its residents to stay active. Plus, with a city built around entertainment, there is no shortage of opportunities to get your fill of social opportunities and culture.