Call it a trend, but people are moving back to Las Vegas. Like, it’s become a thing.
Not one, but TWO of my very best friends are returning after leaving for California more than a decade ago. Actually, one has already returned while the other will be moving back to Las Vegas next year. Since their announcements, we’ve had a few more acquaintances and friends announce their moves back to Vegas, too.
I don’t blame them. In the past years, we’ve gotten a pro hockey team. The Raiders have made Las Vegas their permanent home. We bounced back from the pandemic, like, super-duper fast.
And, the cost of living is still less expensive than it is in most major cities. Plus, and this is very important, it’s easier to buy a house in Las Vegas than it is in Los Angeles or Austin.
I’ve remained in Vegas since I moved here in 2001. As far as I’m concerned, it’s my hometown now. So, if you’re thinking of moving back to Las Vegas, here’s what you need to know, coming from an expert.
Las Vegas is different than the last time you lived here.
Anyone who has lived here any amount of time knows that Las Vegas changes every six months. Well, if you haven’t lived here in years, expect to see a whole new city.
What makes Vegas Vegas hasn’t gone away, but let’s just say the city has grown up. She’s bigger and better than ever.
It’s become a sports town.
Now, I grew up in a sports state. So I know sports culture when I see it.
Between the Golden Knights, Raiders, Aviators, and Aces, Las Vegas is a total sports town. Hell, even Super Bowl LVIII is being held here in 2024! That’s huge. I’m not into sports, but I think it’s pretty damn cool.
All the cool kids hang downtown.
The continued efforts to redevelop downtown Las Vegas continue. It’s beyond First Friday and Fremont Street now.
Breweries have been added to Main Street. There are more murals than before. The Arts District has expanded. Most everything downtown is locally-owned, which adds to the coolness factor. It also simply makes you proud to be spending your money there.
Unfortunately, the city is now charging for parking in the Arts District. That just started. I’m not happy about it. In fact, this new business of charging for parking has become, well, controversial.
The are more locally-owned businesses everywhere than before.
Okay, I can’t prove it. But it certainly seems that way.
Before, all the locally-owned small businesses were centralized downtown because of Downtown Project. However, now, they are everywhere! This includes Downtown Summerlin and Henderson. It’s so impressive.
Markets, pop-ups, and microbusinesses, oh my!
I’m telling you, locally-owned Las Vegas businesses are everywhere. You’ll find locally-owned microbusinesses at The Gather House at Fergusons Downtown. On various weekends, Fergusons also hosts Market in the Alley and Vintage Market. Both are totally happening.
Downtown Summerlin and Tivoli Village both host farmers’ markets. Retail pop-up events are happening all over town—from Henderson to Summerlin and every spot in between. On any given weekend, there’s some wonderfully wholesome retail and social event happening somewhere in Vegas.
It’s all about brunch.
Brunch is mucho importante in Las Vegas. It’s an opportunity to socialize, day drink, flirt, eat yummy foods, and post something special on your social media.
My favorite brunch spots are Peyote and Makers & Finders, but seriously, there are a TON of popular brunch spots in Las Vegas. It’ll take you months to experience them all, but it’ll be worth it.
It’s still hot as hell.
Yeah. That hasn’t changed. If you’re moving back to Las Vegas, you need to get back into the routine of wearing sunscreen daily and carrying water with you wherever you go. Prepare.
You’re welcomed back.
I have always felt like Las Vegas is a city of second chances. You can screw up royally, be held accountable, apologize, and try again. This community is so forgiving.
So, no one is going to hold it against you that you moved away for a hot minute, only to return. In other cities, they may point and laugh. However, if you’re considering moving back to Las Vegas, please know that you will be welcomed back with open arms.