Filmed From My Birthday Weekend in Aspen
I just turned 55 this weekend — and celebrated my first-ever trip to Aspen. Between the mountains, the crisp air, and the après-ski (even if you’re not skiing), it’s the kind of place that makes you reflect.
As of this weekend, I’m officially in the 55+ club, and it got me thinking: Why do so many people — people just like me — choose to call Las Vegas home at this stage of life? And why are they not just living here, but loving it?
Here are 10 compelling, data-backed reasons why 55+ buyers are making the move — and in some cases, hitting the lifestyle jackpot in Las Vegas.
1. Market Momentum + Builder Incentives = Buyer Advantage
Las Vegas is currently in a balanced market — inventory is up nearly 70% year-over-year, giving buyers leverage without bidding war pressure. Builders are offering aggressive incentives: tens of thousands toward closing costs, design upgrades, and interest rate buy-downs as low as 3.75%.
2. No State Income Tax = More Financial Freedom
Nevada is one of just nine states with zero state income tax. Your Social Security, pension, IRA withdrawals — all go further here than in high-tax states like California or New York.
3. The 55+ Migration is Real
A 2025 SmartAsset study ranked Nevada #7 in the nation for retiree relocation. Henderson, North Las Vegas, Spring Valley, and Paradise are leading the way.
4. Communities Designed for Your Lifestyle
From Trilogy Sunstone with clubhouses and pickleball, to Taylor Morrison’s Esplanade at Red Rock in Summerlin West, these communities are built for connection, activity, and ease.
5. Lock-and-Leave Living = Freedom on Your Terms
Low-maintenance homes with HOA-covered landscaping and gated security make it easy to lock the door and travel — whether it’s a month in Europe or a winter in Aspen.
6. Healthcare that Keeps Up with You
With institutions like the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health and UNLV’s expanding medical district, Las Vegas offers top-tier care that continues to grow with the city’s population.
7. Culture, Sports, and the Unexpected
Las Vegas is more than casinos — it’s The Smith Center for Broadway and orchestra, First Friday in the Arts District, arthouse films at The Beverly Theater, and major league sports from NHL to soon-to-be MLB.
8. Sunshine as a Mood Boost
Over 300 days of sunshine a year mean more time outdoors and less time shoveling snow.
9. Outdoor Adventures — No Snowblower Required
Hike Red Rock Canyon, kayak Lake Mead, or ski Mount Charleston — all within an hour of home.
10. Second Acts Thrive Here
Whether you’re starting a business, volunteering, or exploring a creative passion, Las Vegas offers the energy and opportunity to reinvent yourself.
Ready to explore your Vegas chapter?
You can download my Free Guide to Retiring in Las Vegas for community comparisons, cost-of-living breakdowns, and the key questions to ask before making the move.
And here’s a tip for my YouTube viewers:
If you’ve watched my video and want the cliff notes version, every Tuesday I post a matching blog right here on JenniferGraffRealtor.com with all the highlights and resources in one place.
Subscribe and hit the notification bell over on The New Home Experts Las Vegas YouTube Channel so you don’t miss it.
In the meantime, if you're wondering how these changes affect your plans—whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to time the market—I'm here to talk strategy. Let’s have a conversation that actually makes sense for you.