When finding your neighborhood in Las Vegas, think about how far you would like to be from the Strip. If you are moving to Las Vegas with children, check for the locations of libraries, parks, and other kid- and family-friendly resources.
Then, consider where you usually shop. Choosing a neighborhood based on the shops you would like nearby not only guarantees that you will have your favorite stores nearby. Large corporations choose neighborhoods based on where their shoppers are, so if there is a lot of your favorite shopping nearby, you can be sure that you will be around a neighborhood for people like you.
Keep in mind that the closer you are to the Las Vegas Strip, the more at risk you are to be a victim of crime. The 2-mile area surrounding the strip on both sides is a hot spot for prostitution, car theft and vagrancy. While there are secure living areas near the Strip, they are much more expensive than secure housing, which is only 2 or 3 miles farther away.
Las Vegas is a hot climate, and the closer you are to a mountain or tall hill, the more likely you are to catch a break on the heat of the sun under the cool mountain shade. Neighborhoods near mountains tend to be cooler than neighborhoods in the middle of the Vegas Valley.
Walk the neighborhood you choose at night. Look for cockroaches and black widows; these pests are prevalent in Las Vegas and are a sign that your area has a problem with pest control. Black widows hide in the bushes and in closets, and they can be a poisonous danger to kids and pets who encounter them.
Don't overpay for your apartment; if you are moving to Las Vegas from a metropolitan area, the prices can seem very cheap. Don't jump at the first nice apartment you can afford.
Plan your moving day accordingly around the Las Vegas heat. If you can avoid it, do not move in Las Vegas from June through August, as the summer heat can reach up to 113 degrees. If you have to move in the heat, plan to do most of your work at night when it is cool, and plan hydration breaks to keep from getting heat stroke. Heat stroke is serious business in Las Vegas; people die every year from overheating and dehydration, so it is imperative that you take precautions to protect yourself from the heat and sun while moving heavy belongings. Before leaving for Las Vegas, check your truck carefully for working lights, including taillights and brake lights. Check the mirrors to make sure they will move and stay where you put them, even if the wind is blowing on them while you drive.
Las Vegas is home to many resources for kids and families. The local libraries are free for residents with proof of residency. Reading groups and activity groups are held at the library for children, teens and adults. Many of the libraries and community centers plan family movie viewings and reading contest for kids.
Las Vegas is also blessed with many parks renowned for their safety and quality. Check your local area to see which parks are nearby; Las Vegas community parks include water parks, an aquatic center, gyms, dance classes and simulated Western towns, as well as the standard basketball, tennis and soccer playing areas.
