How Expensive Is It to Live in Las Vegas?

Understanding the costs of living in Las Vegas is important for anyone considering a move. Housing, daily necessities, transportation, and discretionary spending influence the total cost. Evaluating these elements helps individuals and families align their budget with the local economy and lifestyle.

Cost of Housing

Housing is a significant living expense, and Las Vegas offers diverse options. The median rent in Las Vegas was approximately $1,397 per month as of June 2024, which remains lower than the national average. Rental prices vary by property type, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. A one-bedroom apartment outside the city center might cost around $800 to $900 per month, while larger homes or those closer to the Strip cost more.

Neighborhoods like Summerlin and Henderson are more expensive due to amenities and luxury properties. North Las Vegas offers more affordable housing. For those considering homeownership, the median price for a single-family home in Las Vegas ranged from approximately $475,000 to $480,000 in late 2024 and early 2025.

Property taxes in Las Vegas are comparatively low, with an effective rate ranging from 0.44% to 0.74% of the home’s value. Nevada law includes a protective cap, limiting annual property tax increases on owner-occupied primary residences to a maximum of 3%. Homeowner’s insurance costs average between $1,103 and $1,410 per year, varying by home age, size, location, and coverage.

Utility expenses also contribute to the overall housing cost. The average monthly electricity bill is around $176.93, but can exceed $300 for larger homes during summer due to air conditioning. Water bills average $26 to $32 per month, and sewer costs are approximately $25.96 per wet ton or included in a combined utility bill. Trash and recycling services cost about $18 per month or $40 to $50 quarterly. Internet services average around $75 per month, with faster speeds or premium packages costing more.

Daily Living Expenses

Daily expenditures are a significant part of the cost of living. Grocery prices are slightly higher than the national average, with monthly costs estimated between $500 and $1,000 per person. A family might spend around $295 per week on groceries. Dining out can add considerably to food budgets. Casual meals cost around $15 to $20 per person, and fine dining on the Strip ranges from $50 to $150 per person, excluding beverages.

Healthcare expenses include insurance premiums and direct medical costs. The average annual healthcare cost for an individual is approximately $6,500, slightly below the national average. For benchmark health plans, the average monthly insurance premium is about $387 per person. A doctor’s visit can range from $90 to $137, while emergency room visits cost $500 to over $2,000 depending on the severity.

Personal care items and household goods are routine purchases that contribute to monthly budgets. These include toiletries, cleaning supplies, and other consumables.

Childcare and education costs are a major consideration for families with children. Daycare for infants and toddlers ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month. Preschool for children aged 3 to 5 costs between $600 and $1,000 monthly. Private school tuition can range from $6,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the institution and grade level. Public K-12 education is free for Nevada residents.

Transportation Costs

Transportation expenses are a notable cost, as most Las Vegas residents rely on personal vehicles. Average car insurance costs are around $125 per month. Gasoline prices fluctuate, but in August 2025, they were approximately $3.65 to $3.72 per gallon. Vehicle maintenance and registration fees also contribute to car ownership costs.

Public transportation is available through the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC). A single bus ride costs between $2 and $4, while a 24-hour pass is $8 and a 3-day pass is $20. A 30-day pass for the RTC bus system costs around $65. While the RTC provides services, its coverage may be limited for widespread daily commuting outside central Las Vegas, making a personal vehicle a practical necessity for many. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are prevalent, offering an alternative for occasional travel or commuting to areas with limited public transport.

Other Significant Costs

Nevada’s tax structure impacts residents’ financial landscape. A notable advantage is the absence of a state income tax on individuals, meaning wages and other compensation are not subject to state-level taxation. This can result in higher disposable income compared to states with income taxes. However, residents still pay federal income taxes.

The state relies on other revenue sources, including sales tax. The base state sales tax rate is 6.85%. With local county taxes, the combined sales tax rate in Clark County, including Las Vegas, reaches 8.375%. Property taxes, while relatively low, are another revenue stream for local governments, supporting public services like schools and emergency departments.

Entertainment and leisure activities are abundant in Las Vegas, but costs vary widely based on individual choices. Tickets for shows and concerts can range from $50 to $150 per person, and nightclub cover charges are $20 to $100. Residents can manage these costs by taking advantage of local discounts, exploring free attractions, or opting for more budget-friendly activities like hiking in natural areas.

Miscellaneous expenses include subscriptions, personal hobbies, and unexpected financial needs. These variable expenditures fluctuate monthly and depend on an individual’s lifestyle and spending habits. Budgeting for these categories helps ensure financial stability and flexibility.