Las Vegas : Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the fastest-growing communities in the U.S. Legalized gambling in this desert resort city has created an enormous economy and attracted many new residents, including retirees in active adult communities. The Las Vegas strip is justly famous for its glitz and many attractions. Even if you don't ever bet a single nickel, it is worth it to see the astonishing architecture and excess that are Las Vegas trademarks. People who want to stay busy will find plenty to do in Las Vegas, including the opportunity for a part-time job in the tourist industry.

Las Vegas was one of the hardest-hit real estate markets in the U.S. from the post 2007 housing crash. Overbuilding and speculation created an enormous oversupply of homes, many of which were foreclosed.  By 2013 there was a sharp recovery in the housing market.  Photo of downtown courtesy of Wikipedia and PDPhoto.org. Photo of fountain by Jeff Russell.

There is a wide range of excellent active adult communities to choose from in this enormous metro, which extends into North Las Vegas and Henderson. The region was one of the hardest hit financially by the 2007 recession, when home prices and many developments collapsed. However,  average home prices in Las Vegas have dramatically risen in the last 4 years. The median price in the first quarter of 2016 was $222,500 up sharply from 2011 when it was $124,700 (source: NAR).  Prices differ tremendously by zip code. See this Las Vegas Real Estate Report

An exciting place to live with something for everyone. No state income tax.

In 2010 Las Vegas was the foreclosure capital of the USA, although now it has some of the biggest price increases in the country.  It is a new and artificial town with many  tawdry aspects. Although there are many nice neighborhoods, driving everywhere and future water worries are real concerns.

Go to the strip for any kind of entertainment and shows;  the city and its casinos have dozens of excellent restaurants; there is a busy local art and music scene; the $485 million Smith Center for the Performing Arts is located downtown in Symphony Park.