Map of Las Vegas, United States

Las Vegas, NV, known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a vibrant city located in the Mojave Desert of the United States. Famous for its bustling nightlife, world-class casinos, and luxurious resorts, Las Vegas offers a unique blend of entertainment and leisure activities. The city is a major hub for tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to experience its iconic Strip, diverse dining options, and spectacular shows.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, Las Vegas is also home to a growing community with a rich cultural scene. The city has seen significant growth in industries such as technology and healthcare, contributing to its dynamic economy. Las Vegas is also known for its emerging art scene, with numerous galleries and public art installations enhancing its cultural landscape.

Climate
57.40
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Healthcare
53.71
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Traffic
127.34
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Property
3.48
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Pollution
51.83
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History and Culture

Las Vegas was founded in 1905 and officially became a city in 1911. Its history is deeply intertwined with the development of the railroad and the construction of the Hoover Dam, which brought an influx of workers and contributed to its early growth. The legalization of gambling in 1931 marked a turning point, transforming Las Vegas into a premier destination for entertainment and gaming.

The city's cultural development has been shaped by its diverse population, with influences from Hispanic, African American, and Asian communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's festivals, culinary offerings, and cultural institutions. Notable figures such as Bugsy Siegel played a significant role in establishing Las Vegas as a gambling mecca, while entertainers like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra have left an indelible mark on its cultural heritage.

Las Vegas is home to several key cultural institutions, including the Neon Museum, which preserves iconic signs from the city's past, and the Smith Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of performances. The city's vibrant arts scene is further showcased through events like the First Friday Art Celebration, which highlights local artists and musicians.

Things to do in Las Vegas

Visitors to Las Vegas can explore a wide array of attractions and activities. The Las Vegas Strip is a must-see, featuring famous casinos like the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and The Venetian, each offering unique entertainment experiences. Beyond the casinos, visitors can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and live performances from top artists.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers stunning landscapes and hiking trails just a short drive from the city. Additionally, the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas provides a vibrant pedestrian mall with live music and light shows.

Las Vegas also hosts numerous annual events and festivals, such as the Electric Daisy Carnival, a massive electronic dance music festival, and the Las Vegas Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world. The city's culinary scene is celebrated during events like Vegas Uncork'd, a food and wine festival featuring renowned chefs.

Worldwide
United States

Quality of Life Rankings

Las Vegas ranks 34th on the Quality of Life rankings in United States. The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV, United States experiences a desert climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 4.2 inches (107 mm), with February being the wettest month, averaging 0.69 inches (17.5 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 90°F (32°C) in May. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 90°F (32°C) in May. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 90°F (32°C) in May. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 90°F (32°C) in May. Rainfall is minimal during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during summer months with temperatures exceeding 110°F (43°C).
  • Rare flash floods during monsoon season in late summer.
  • Minimal snowfall in winter, typically not accumulating.
Overall, Las Vegas's climate offers extremely hot summers and mild winters, with very low rainfall distributed sporadically throughout the year.

Las Vegas's Political Climate

Mixed, with a slight Democratic lean

Las Vegas, located in the state of Nevada, is a city known for its vibrant entertainment industry and dynamic political landscape. The city operates under a council-manager form of government, where the city council is responsible for legislative functions, and the city manager handles administrative tasks. This structure allows for a balance of power and efficient governance.

Historically, Las Vegas has been a politically diverse city, with a mix of conservative and liberal influences. The city's political leadership often reflects this diversity, with elected officials from both major political parties. In recent years, Las Vegas has seen a shift towards more progressive policies, particularly in areas such as renewable energy and social justice. The city has been at the forefront of sustainability efforts, implementing initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote green energy.

The political climate in Las Vegas is heavily influenced by its economic reliance on tourism and gaming. As such, policies often focus on economic growth and stability, while also addressing social issues like housing affordability and healthcare access. Recent political events have seen increased civic engagement, with local movements advocating for changes in areas such as education reform and police accountability.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 65%
City Governance - Council-manager government
Composition - 4 Democrats, 3 Republicans
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on renewable energy policies and social justice initiatives
Engagement - High, with active participation in local movements and civic activities
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Renewable energy expansion, Affordable housing initiatives, Healthcare access improvement
Public Opinion - Generally progressive, with strong support for environmental and social policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Carolyn Goodman - Mayor of Las Vegas known for her focus on economic development and public safety.
  • Steve Sisolak - Former Governor of Nevada with a strong influence on state policies affecting Las Vegas.
  • Susie Lee - U.S. Representative advocating for education reform and healthcare access.
Las Vegas

Quick Facts

Population
641,903
Median Age
37.4 yrs
Median Household Income
$58,886
Median Home Price
$375,000
Avg Rent Prices
$1,400
Unemployment Rate
5.4%
Avg commute time
24.8 mins
Avg High Temps
80° F
Avg Low Temps
58° F
Annual Rainfall
4.2 inches
Las Vegas

"Key Takeaways"

Las Vegas is a leading destination for entertainment and tourism, attracting millions of visitors annually.

The city has a diverse cultural scene, with influences from various ethnic communities contributing to its vibrant arts and culinary offerings.

Las Vegas is experiencing growth in industries such as technology and healthcare, enhancing its economic landscape.