Let’s be honest — the Strip feels a little... lighter this summer. Fewer crowds. Easier dinner reservations. A little more elbow room in the Aria valet line.
But what’s really going on? Are people over Vegas? Is it the heat? The economy? The airfares?
Let’s unpack it — and, more importantly, let’s talk about what it means for you if you live here, plan to move here, or work in an industry tied to Las Vegas real estate and lifestyle.
The Numbers First: Yes, Tourism Is Down
According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, visits dropped 11.3% year-over-year in June 2025. That’s a big number. And it’s not just from one source — we’re seeing:
6.3% decline in air travel to Las Vegas
4.3% fewer cars coming across the CA-NV border via I-15
A slump in international travel (a projected $12.5 billion drop nationwide in 2025, per the World Travel and Tourism Council)
The biggest culprit? Our neighbor to the west: California.
In 2024, Southern California accounted for nearly 30% of all Las Vegas visitors, and now, that segment is slipping.
Why? Let’s get into it...
California, Politics, and the ‘Trump Slump’
With rising gas prices, inflation, and economic uncertainty, some California residents are just staying home. Add in contentious political rhetoric, border delays, and international travelers seeing the U.S. as “less welcoming,” and the slump starts to make more sense.
Even Vegas insiders are calling it the "Trump Slump" — a mix of tariffs, international tension, and policy fatigue that’s dampening enthusiasm for U.S. travel.
And while cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are also seeing tourism dips, Las Vegas — as a city that thrives on out-of-town spending — is feeling it harder.
But Let’s Reframe: Is This the Reset We Needed?
Here’s the thing. Vegas has always been a boom-and-bust town — and somehow, she always reinvents herself.
If you’re a local, you already know this lull feels oddly refreshing. Shorter lines. More tables available at Barry’s. A little more space to breathe on the Strip. And if you’re thinking about relocating, this moment is an opportunity.
Because while tourist counts are down, revenue is up:
$1.16 billion in gaming revenue in June 2025 — up 3.5% from last year.
Translation? People are coming. And they’re spending
What It Means for Real Estate
This moment — quieter streets, more inventory, price adjustments — is giving serious “buy the dip” energy.
Master-planned communities like Summerlin and Skye Canyon are offering real opportunities — with builder incentives returning and some sellers finally adjusting to today’s market.
If you’ve been on the fence about making a move, let me say this:
The dream of living in Las Vegas isn’t going anywhere. It’s just recalibrating.
Whether that dream looks like a sleek condo at Veer Towers, a quiet guard-gated retreat in Spanish Trail, or a vibrant 55+ community with pickleball and happy hour on repeat — there’s room for you here.
Let's Talk
Want a clear roadmap for buying in today’s Las Vegas?
Start by grabbing my free 55+ Lifestyle Guide — filled with community breakdowns, market insight, and honest advice from someone who lives and works in this market every day. [Link to download]
Or just hit reply. Let’s talk about whether this moment is the right one for you.
Because Vegas may be in a lull — but the savvy ones know that’s exactly when you make your move.
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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.