If you’re considering a long-distance move to Nevada, you’re not alone. 3.1 million people call the Silver State home. For those who want to pursue a life in Las Vegas, Reno, Carson City, or the state’s many other enclaves, it’s worth knowing a few key details before you pack up and head out.
Moving to Nevada from out of state means hiring interstate moving services to help facilitate the packing, transportation, and unloading of your belongings. It simplifies your move and lets you focus on important details like paperwork, staying on budget, and ensuring your family’s experience goes well.
Key Points: What to Know Before Moving to Nevada
- Nevada’s economic incentives include lots of jobs and no state income taxes.
- Nevada hosts many natural landscapes and outdoor activities, including in spots like Red Rock Canyon.
- Nevada does have some drawbacks, namely, the need to conserve water and occasional extreme weather conditions.
- Nevada lacks robust public transit outside the cities, making it heavily car-dependent.
Pros of Moving to Nevada: Embracing the Silver State Lifestyle
What makes moving to Nevada so appealing? In addition to excellent economic opportunities, it’s a beautiful place to experience nature and outdoor recreation. Depending on your lifestyle preferences, you can embrace entertainment and nightlife in Las Vegas’s desert oasis or have a slower-paced rural experience in some of the Silver State’s smaller towns. Read on to learn more about the benefits of moving to Nevada.
No State Income Tax
One of the most significant benefits of moving to Nevada is that it’s one of the few states that doesn’t require residents to pay personal income taxes. This allows you to keep more of your hard-earned money.
Diverse Natural Landscapes
Nevada’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. When moving to Nevada, take advantage of your surroundings. You can spend time in spots like Red Rock Canyon or the vast expanses of the Great Basin, which have stunning desert landscapes. Nevada also shares the coastline of Lake Tahoe with California. Lake Tahoe offers year-round mountain recreation – from winter skiing adventures to hiking and water sports during the summer months.
Booming Job Market
Nevada’s robust job market is a major signifier of Nevada’s growing economy, as the southern part of the state has experienced massive job growth in recent years. While tourism and gaming are significant portions of the state’s economy, they’re not the only industries in business in Nevada. Other major employers are the technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and logistics sectors. Additionally, cities like Las Vegas and Reno have fostered vibrant startup communities in recent years, attracting investors and entrepreneurs.
Cons of Moving to Nevada: Challenges to Consider
Yes, Nevada is a great place to live, but there are some possible challenges you should be aware of before scheduling your move. Consider the following cons that come with life in the Silver State.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Because of its desert landscape, Nevada is well-known for extreme weather conditions. Temperatures in the southern parts of the state can regularly exceed 100 degrees during the summer months, which makes outdoor activities challenging. The heat also raises your cooling costs significantly compared to more temperate climates. In addition, extremely low humidity means an increased risk of dehydration, skin dryness, and respiratory issues.
Despite the dry climate and potential for dust storms that impact air quality, flash flooding is possible thanks to sudden rainstorms. Other climate challenges include frigid nighttime temperatures and potentially severe winter conditions in mountain areas.
Water Scarcity
Water scarcity is a critical issue in the Nevada desert. The state has experienced long-term drought conditions that have significantly strained water resources. Many areas have implemented water conservation measures, such as limits on car washing and lawn watering.
Why are these issues important? Water scarcity might impact future growth and development in parts of the Silver State. That could lead to higher housing costs or limits on economic growth. It can also lead to higher utility bills for residents — impacting the total cost of living.
Limited Public Transportation
Nevada’s desert landscape and long highway stretches mean cities in the Silver State lean toward car-centered design. Personal vehicle ownership is almost a necessity for all residents. While bus routes are available in Reno and Las Vegas, the routes and frequency are limited compared to other metro areas. There’s also almost no rail transit in the state.
That means getting around without a car is a real challenge for those in suburban or rural areas. Because of this reliance on personal vehicles, you’ll also probably pay more for fuel, maintenance, and parking.
Understanding the Cost of Living in Nevada
Nevada’s cost of living is fairly high compared to other places, especially for families. The typical home price is $417,100. This is at least 23% more expensive than the national average elsewhere. In addition, a minimum annual income of $79,920 is recommended for families. Single people have it slightly better, with incomes of $47,600 recommended.
Grocery prices are a significant driver of the state’s cost of living. According to reports, the Silver State boasts the second highest grocery prices in the country. The necessity of driving throughout the state also means you can expect to pay a lot for gas, car insurance, and more.
Essential Forms and Legal Documents for Your Nevada Move
Moving to Nevada involves using several important documents to establish your residency and comply with state laws. Pursue the following actions as soon as possible to ensure you meet legal requirements.
Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration
One of the first things you need to do when moving to Nevada is to obtain your Nevada driver’s license and vehicle registration.
To obtain a driver’s license, you must apply within 30 days of moving. Visit a Nevada DMV office in person and bring proof of identity, a Social Security number, and two documents proving Nevada residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement. You must also pass a vision test and surrender your out-of-state license.
To register your vehicle, you’ll need to provide critical details like the Invoice or Bill of Sale, the car’s Title, Lease Agreement, or Purchase Order, and other details like evidence of insurance and an emissions and inspection report.
Change of Address and Voter Registration
The best way to change your address is with the USPS’s convenient change-of-address form. This form allows you to forward your mail to your new address as you work through updating your contacts of your new home. You can also start the voter registration process with this form. That said, Nevada offers online voter registration to simplify the process. You must have a valid Nevada driver’s license or ID to apply.
Fastest Growing Areas in Nevada
If you’re considering moving to Nevada, knowing what part of the state to call home is key. Consider the following areas, which offer two different takes on a Nevada lifestyle.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Area
Las Vegas is Nevada’s economic powerhouse, and some benefits of moving to Nevada include the opportunity to work in diverse industries like tech, healthcare, and logistics. It’s a world-class cultural hub with entertainment, dining, and an arts scene that provides a vibrant lifestyle.
For those who want to live close (but not too close!) to the action, suburbs like Henderson and Summerlin offer family-friendly communities with excellent amenities. UNLV and other institutions offer higher education opportunities. Surrounding Las Vegas are plenty of natural attractions to see in places like Lake Mead and Red Rock Canyon.
Reno-Sparks Region
Reno is called the “Biggest Little City in the World” for a reason. Reno has recently attracted several major tech companies, but those who love things like outdoor activities and a lower cost of living call it home for a reason. You’re not too far from Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and other numerous parks. Gaming is still an important part of the economy, but startup growth has led to a diversified economy.
Is Moving to Nevada Right for You?
Much like other states, the benefits of moving to Nevada boil down to what you want to prioritize as part of your future. Nevada’s tourism and gaming industries are second to none. Las Vegas is an oasis in the desert, and the tech sector’s growth in the Silver State might be great for startup workers. The state’s water scarcity and dependence on cars might be a deal-breaker for some.
If moving to Nevada makes sense, you’ll want to plan your move carefully. Hiring the right long-distance moving services provider can make a huge difference in terms of efficiency and stress during your move. Safe Ship Moving Services can help answer your questions and find the right movers to meet your needs.
Our commitment to service helps you find licensed cross-country movers within our carrier network at fair, competitive prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nevada a good state to move to?
Depending on your priorities, Nevada can be an excellent state to move to. It offers many economic opportunities, especially for those seeking a career in hospitality or gaming. Be aware of challenges like extreme weather, water scarcity, and limited public transit.
What is the nicest part of Nevada to live?
The nicest parts of Nevada also depend on your lifestyle preferences. Urban amenities and entertainment in Las Vegas make city life worthwhile, while Reno offers a mix of outdoor recreation and urban living. For natural beauty and quiet lifestyles, Lake Tahoe excels. Finally, those seeking a balance of small-town charm and state capital benefits might like Carson City.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Nevada?
To comfortably live in Nevada, a family needs a minimum annual income of $79,920. Single people can get away with $47,600.
