Many people think of Nevada as state where anything goes. Movies and even the state's own visitor's bureau have touted the region as a gambler's paradise. But there is much more to the Silver State than popular culture will have you believe. If you are looking to move to Nevada, this guide will help you find the best places to live in the state.
If you want suburban living with scenic views while staying close to big-city life, then Henderson might just be the perfect place for you. Ranked in the top 100 places to live in the U.S. by Money magazine in 2008, Henderson is a stone's throw away from the sin city of Las Vegas. But this community of more than 240,000 residents has a lot to offer on its own, including beautiful views of Nevada's natural, mountainous landscape. The median family income in the area is about $78,000, while home prices are about $300,000. But with these costly bungalows come a superb school district; six area universities, colleges and professional schools; and a job growth rate of nearly 50 percent from 2000 to 2007. With easy access to Las Vegas, there is no shortage of nightlife, with more than 3,600 restaurants and 500 bars to choose from. Finally, for the outdoor-minded, the city provides walkers, runners and bikers with more than 30 miles of trails, perfect for those wanting to stay fit after visiting the famous strip.
If Henderson is a bit too developed but you're wanting to still stay close to the city, then Spring Valley is the destination for you. Also ranked in the top 100 places to live by Money magazine in 2008, Spring Valley offers residents a well-planned community complete with walking and running trails as well as shopping districts. Spring Valley is a mere two miles away from the Las Vegas Strip, but you wouldn't know it. This suburb of about 176,000 residents is very family-oriented, as evidenced by its Desert Breeze water park. Median family income in the area is about $72,000, while home prices are a little more than $260,000. Job growth from 2000 to 2007 was nearly 55 percent. For those looking for an active nightlife, you can't beat nearby Las Vegas' world-class entertainers, restaurants and casinos.
If being close to the big city of Las Vegas isn't a necessity or if quiet, semi-rural life is more your pace, then you might want to try Pahrump, one of Nevada's less urban cities. Pahrump is about an hour west of Las Vegas and only about five miles from the California border. It's a small city of about 32,000 residents, providing for a slower-paced life than the hustle and bustle of Vegas. Median household income is about $45,000, while housing prices are around $260,000. The average age of the city's residents tends to be a bit older, making it ideal for those with some money who are looking to retire. Residents seeking employment in Pahrump can turn to the construction and education industries, both popular sectors in the city. For the culturally minded, Pahrump even has its own museum, the Pahrump Valley Museum, which features artifacts detailing the area's history.
