East side, west side, all over town — the Las Vegas Valley consists of a variety of neighborhoods and cities, each with its own distinct characteristics. When it comes to choosing which one is best for you, it really all depends on which community has the look and feel of what you can call home.
Las Vegas Valley at a Glance
When people think of Las Vegas, most immediately picture the iconic Strip. While there are certainly spectacular high-rises located by the Strip, as well as some vintage neighborhoods around the downtown casinos of Fremont Street, many residents live away from all the casinos and attractions. Henderson is to the south, and Summerlin extends from the northwest down into part of the southwest: Together, they form the big city’s two major suburban communities. Burgeoning Southwest and Northwest regions continue to grow, often giving buyers somewhat more competitive prices. In fact, the new construction in Las Vegas is bringing in people from all over.
These are often master-planned communities, which are sizable multi-developer concepts offering amenities such as lakes, golf courses, and parks. Buyers also appreciate the large selection of home styles and prices available in these master plans.
Henderson Has it All
As the second-largest city in Nevada (yes, bigger than Reno or Carson City), Henderson lives up to its unofficial motto — “small-town values with big-city efficiencies.” An enviable public parks system, high-performing schools and amenity-filled communities are just a few of the major draws of this community. Henderson residents enjoy close proximity to Lake Mead. Shopping includes the Galleria Mall, which recently completed a full-scale renovation, and the upscale District at Green Valley Ranch. Lake Las Vegas, a developed area around an artificial lake, is also part of Henderson.
Summerlin Stands up to Henderson
Though it holds a population roughly half that of Henderson, Summerlin also comes with numerous advantages. Residents have easy access to the Summerlin Parkway, linking up to the I-215 and I-95 freeways, plus a variety of parks, commercial districts, and top-ranked schools. The community master plan calls for 31 residential villages (over half have been completed) offering buyers a mixture of styles and home prices, along with village-specific amenities. Summerlin residents can also enjoy scenic Red Rock Canyon nearby and the trendy Boca Park shopping district.
The Unique Southwest
Located in unincorporated Clark County, the Southwest region of the Las Vegas Valley offers a variety of new construction, based largely within the Mountain’s Edge and Southern Highlands master plans. Exploration Peak Park in Mountain’s Edge contains unique features like the historic Old West Town and Indian Village, a water park, and even an archaeology dig site.
North Las Vegas
The City of North Las Vegas (NLV) is the fourth-largest in Nevada and makes a convenient location for personnel around Nellis Air Force Base. Buyers here find a variety of new construction, much of it offered at competitive prices. Residents of NLV enjoy Floyd Lamb State Park and the newly opened Craig Ranch Regional Park as well as closer proximity to Mount Charleston. For those desiring master plan amenities, the Aliante community provides this option, including its own nature park with pond, waterfall, and Dino Dig play area.
It’s Up to You
A drive to the center Strip takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes from any of these regions. Henderson and Summerlin (as well as Aliante) also contain age-restricted living options, if that’s of interest to you. After evaluating what you’re looking for in a neighborhood, visit Las Vegas for yourself and explore the character of each community. It’s all about what feels best for you.
Image Source: Wikipedia
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