Top 15 Best Cities to Live in Nevada

Nevada is a state characterized by contrasts. With vast deserts covering much of the area, it features a stark contrast found in a seemingly quiet corner of this western region: the extravagant, luxurious, and vibrant Las Vegas.

While the thought of residing near the party capital of the world may deter many, it should not dissuade one from considering a move to Nevada.

In reality, Nevada is a diverse state, populated by approximately 2.9 million residents, offering much more than just Las Vegas. Attractions such as Lake Tahoe, Red Rock Canyon, and Valley of Fire are all available for exploration.

The weather in this region is considerably more pleasant compared to states like Alaska; yet another advantage for Nevada?

When searching for a new home, numerous factors must be taken into account. Aside from the quality and affordability of homes, considerations like access to public education, employment opportunities, and crime rates play crucial roles in the decision-making process.

Taking these points into account, along with several other commonly overlooked factors, we have produced a detailed list of the 15 best places to live in Nevada.

1. Reno

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Adopted as ‘The Biggest Little City in the World,’ Reno is recognized as the best place to reside in Nevada.

Much of the city is situated along the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which connects into Yosemite National Park; skiing, hiking, and fishing are all activities readily available.

In terms of reality, property prices in Reno are notably reasonable given the area’s appeal, access to outdoor activities, and plentiful job opportunities. On average, a family home will require an investment of over $200,000, which is slightly above the national average; quite reasonable.

Reno has 76 public schools, providing parents with a multitude of options for their children’s education, many of which exceed national performance expectations.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best activities in Reno include:

• National Automobile Museum
• Nevada Museum of Art
• Greater Nevada Field
• Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
• Reno Arch
• Idlewild Park
• The Discovery Science Museum

2. Incline Village

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If Reno does not appeal to you, Incline Village is likely to attract interest. Nestled along the shores of Lake Tahoe and surrounded by iconic Nevada pines, it is hard to find fault in this ski village.

Perhaps one notable aspect is the average home cost here in Incline Village, averaging a significant quarter of a million dollars, with many properties well above the million-dollar mark. However, the investment is worthwhile, as homes exude a chalet ambiance; wooden siding and surrounded by lush evergreens.

While Incline Village has a resident population exceeding eight thousand, there are abundant amenities, with public schools ranking among the best in the state.

Entertainment & Activities

Highlights of Incline Village include:

• Diamond Peak Ski Resort
• Sand Harbor State Park
• Tahoe East Shore Trail
• Bowl Incline Bowling Alley
• Burnt Cedar Beach
• Flume Trail Bikes
• Lone Eagle Grille
• Incline Beach

3. Henderson

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Situated close enough to Las Vegas to enjoy its vibrancy, yet distant enough to avoid chaos, Henderson presents an intriguing option. This city is home to attractions such as the Clark County Museum, the Lion Habitat Ranch, and Lake Mead.

With over two hundred thousand residents, Henderson offers various commuting options for those working in Las Vegas and Summerlin.

Notably, Henderson boasts significantly low crime statistics compared to other cities in Nevada, providing reassurance for newcomers. Property values are aligned with state averages, with a median home price exceeding $200,000.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in Henderson include:

• Lion Habitat Ranch
• Clark County Museum
• Cowabunga Bay Water Park
• The District at Green Valley
• Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
• Lake Las Vegas
• Galleria at Sunset

4. Verdi

Source: Ken Lund / Flickr

Although often overlooked by those searching for a new home in Nevada, Verdi merits serious consideration. With a population of just over fifteen hundred, it fosters a strong community atmosphere, resembling a village despite its suburban classification.

Residents report that the primary concern is occasional DUIs, which, in the grand scheme of things, is unlikely to deter prospective property buyers.

Public schooling options in the area are exceptional, with a total of 25 schools; the top five receive an A-rating. The median household income is more than $60,000, indicating that, unlike Incline Village, Verdi is not an exclusive neighborhood. It is a warm and welcoming location worthy of consideration.

Entertainment & Activities

Top activities in Verdi include:

• Crystal Peak Park
• Cabela’s Outdoor Sports Store
• Mayberry Park
• Hunter Creek Trailhead
• Hunter Creek Falls
• Peavine Pike

5. Enterprise

Source: Famartin / Wikimedia

Enterprise is increasingly popular among millennials, leading to predictions of a population boom exceeding one hundred and twenty-five thousand in the coming decade; undoubtedly prompting enhanced infrastructure and amenities.

Housing prices in Enterprise are above the national average but consistent with state rates. A three-bedroom, three-bathroom family home typically exceeds the national average price. Consequently, with the growing interest from millennials, this is an ideal time to invest in Enterprise before property values surge.

There are 84 public schools in the area, all performing at or above governmental criteria. The variety of educational institutions in Enterprise adds another attractive aspect of the neighborhood.

Entertainment & Activities

Highlights of Enterprise include:

• Exploration Peak Park
• Town Square Las Vegas
• Silverton Aquarium
• Shadow Creek Golf Club
• South Point Bowling Center

6. Sparks

Source: Ken Lund / Flickr

Sparks is located in Washoe County and is home to over ninety-three thousand residents who collectively regard their city as a wonderful place to reside.

A major advantage of Sparks is its median home value, which ranks among the most affordable in Nevada. Furthermore, median rent aligns closely with the national average, making Sparks a compelling option for potential tenants.

Local consensus emphasizes the area’s safety and abundance of social facilities. With its proximity to Downtown Reno, Sparks offers an array of entertainment options, including casinos, cinemas, and numerous dining establishments.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in Sparks consist of:

• Sparks Marina Park
• Wild Island Family Adventure Park
• The Outlets at Legends
• Coconut Bowl at Wild Island
• Sparks Heritage Museum
• Rock Park
• Red Hawk Golf and Resort

7. Mogul

Source: KevinStandlee / Flickr

The quaint town of Mogul represents a rural part of Nevada, located to the west of Reno; connected by Interstate 80, it offers options for city workers willing to commute.

Mogul is ideally located between Verdi and Reno, providing an excellent compromise for those attracted to Verdi’s charm but finding the commute to Reno to be excessive.

With a population just over thirteen hundred, Mogul cultivates a close-knit community atmosphere, appealing particularly to those with outdoor interests.

Public education in Nevada generally excels, and Mogul is no exception. While small, the town offers 21 public schools for parents to consider.

Entertainment & Activities

Best activities in Mogul include:

• Peppermill Resort Spa Casino
• Animal Ark
• Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts
• Galena Creek Regional Park
• Sierra Nevada Zoological Park

8. Spanish Springs

Source: kathlucky / Flickr

For those desiring a conducive environment for family growth, Spanish Springs in Nevada stands out as an exceptional option.

The community, with a population exceeding fifteen thousand, is notably well-educated, contributing to a median household income significantly surpassing the national average.

With children and young individuals comprising 20% of the populace, there are sufficient educational establishments; 32 public schools extending from elementary to high school, each providing a high-quality educational experience.

The neighborhood showcases a diverse demographic, enriching the residents’ overall satisfaction.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular activities in Spanish Springs include:

• Andelin Family Farm
• Eagle Canyon Park
• Melio Gaspari Water Play Park
• Lazy 5 Regional Park
• DEFY Sparks
• Fun Quest Video Arcade

9. Minden

Source: Marlene DeGrood / shutterstock

Minden is classified as an unincorporated town, denoting that it lacks governance by a local municipal corporation. Nevertheless, it hosts a vibrant community of over three thousand residents.

Just a 30-minute drive from Lake Tahoe, Minden offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, it lies only an hour’s drive from Reno, presenting endless possibilities for those who wish to work or enjoy city life.

The real estate market in Minden is limited, with 67% of residents owning their homes, reflecting satisfaction with living conditions; few desire to relocate.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular activities in Minden include:

• Carson Valley Swim Center
• Sharkey’s Casino
• Minden Park
• Lampe Park
• Carson Valley Days Festival
• Bentley Ranch

10. Kingsbury

Source: Nouhailler / Flickr

Kingsbury lives up to its name, being one of the more affluent neighborhoods in Nevada. While the median household income slightly exceeds the national average, this is disproportionate to the median home value of over $400,000.

Homes available in Kingsbury often command prices approaching or exceeding one million dollars; the proximity to Lake Tahoe explains the high property prices.

This area is characterized as truly rural, possibly justifying the steep real estate prices. As a result, Kingsbury has received a C- rating for cost of living according to niche.com.

Entertainment & Activities

Highlights in or near Kingsbury include:

• Kahle Park
• Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena
• Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course
• Base Camp Pizza
• Heavenly Mountain Resort

11. Spring Valley

Source: Paul Briden / shutterstock

Spring Valley is situated in the southwestern corner of Las Vegas. This urban neighborhood is home to Nevada’s most diverse group of residents, comprising over one hundred eighty-six thousand individuals.

As a suburb of Las Vegas, the cost of rent exceeds the national average; however, at over $1,000 a month, it is a reasonable sum given its proximity to Las Vegas’s job opportunities.

Local residents frequently express positive sentiments about the quality of life in Spring Valley, noting the neighborhood’s potential for future development.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in and around Spring Valley include:

• Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
• Desert Breeze Park
• The Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park
• Downtown Summerlin Shopping Mall
• Las Vegas Ice Center

12. Indian Hills

Source: Nouhailler / Flickr

The cozy neighborhood of Indian Hills resides on the south side of Carson City in Douglas County.

Properties here are fairly priced, with average family homes costing over $200,000. A closer examination reveals opportunities for four-bedroom, two-bathroom homes complete with private driveways and garages priced near $400,000. For instance, a home on Valley Crest Drive can be obtained around the national average, presenting a three-bedroom, two-bathroom option close to several reputable schools.

Indian Hills has 11 public schools, providing parents with numerous educational choices, especially given the area’s modest population of just 6,100.

Entertainment & Activities

Best activities in Indian Hills include:

• Valley Vista Park
• Carson City Fair
• Clear Creek Trail
• Rockin’ RibFest
• James Lee Memorial Park
• Element 79 Vineyards
• Tahoe Outdoor Adventures

13. Las Vegas

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No discussion of the top places to live in Nevada would be complete without acknowledging Las Vegas. This city stands out as an excellent place to live, hosting a diverse population exceeding six hundred thousand residents. However, it is noteworthy that the median household income is slightly beneath the national average, at just over $50,000 annually.

Despite a high cost of living, with an average monthly income surpassing $4,000, the encouraging aspect is that median monthly rent is just over $1,000, allowing for a manageable disposable income.

Understanding the demographic landscape of Las Vegas, it is not surprising to find it ranked as the 15th best city in the United States for retirement.

Entertainment & Activities

Top attractions in Las Vegas include:

• Fremont Street Experience
• The Neon Museum Las Vegas
• Bellagio Fountain
• High Roller Ferris Wheel
• Hoover Dam
• Springs Preserve
• The Venetian
• Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum
• Las Vegas Strip

14. Sun Valley

Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock

With a population exceeding nineteen thousand, Sun Valley presents reasonable employment opportunities alongside various health, fitness, and nightlife facilities.

Peavine Peak is visible from Sun Valley, and Red Hill Park serves as a well-liked recreational area among locals. Given its median home value exceeding $100,000, Sun Valley emerges as one of the best places in Nevada for property investment.

Access to quality educational institutions is plentiful, making Sun Valley a worthy consideration for families seeking an affordable yet charming place to live.

Entertainment & Activities

Top activities in Sun Valley consist of:

• Engine 8 Urban Winery
• Silver Legacy Resort Casino
• Highland Ranch Park
• Nevada Museum of Art
• Urban Air Trampoline Park

15. Paradise

Source: Ken Lund / Flickr

Home to over two hundred thousand residents, Paradise is the final entry on our list of the 15 best places to live in Nevada.

This neighborhood is situated in central Las Vegas. It boasts over 100 public schools, though few achieve the ideal A-rating standard, prompting parents to work diligently to secure a place for their children in preferred institutions.

For city workers, Paradise offers excellent living conditions, making it an attractive neighborhood for young individuals aiming to enter the property market while developing their careers. Median monthly rent exceeds $1,000, with various rental options available.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular activities in Paradise consist of:

• Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
• Tournament of Kings Dinner Theatre
• Area15
• Madame Tussauds Museum
• Atomic Museum
• Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck