Moving to Henderson, NV: What You Need to Know

Moving to a new city is exciting and a little nerve-racking. We've lived and worked in Henderson for more than two decades, and we help families relocate here every year. Here's what we tell everyone who asks what it's really like.

Close to Las Vegas, but its own place

Henderson sits on the southeast side of the Las Vegas Valley, roughly 20 to 30 minutes from the Strip depending on where you live and the time of day. You can catch a show or a game any night you like, then come home to quieter, family-friendly neighborhoods. It's Nevada's second-largest city, but many parts of it still have a small-town feel.

Taxes: one of the big draws

• No state income tax. Nevada doesn't tax wages or retirement income.
• Property tax caps. In Clark County, increases in the property tax on your primary residence are capped at 3% a year. Rentals and other property are capped at up to 8%. When you buy, watch for the Assessor's postcard and return it to claim the 3% cap on your home.
• Sales tax is on the higher side, so you'll notice it on big purchases.

Neighborhoods for every lifestyle

Henderson is known for master-planned communities, each with its own personality:

• Green Valley & Green Valley Ranch: established, central, close to The District and Green Valley Ranch Resort. More about Green Valley.
• Seven Hills & MacDonald Highlands: guard-gated luxury, golf and big valley views. More about Seven Hills.
• Anthem: foothill living with parks, trails and an active 55+ community. More about Anthem.
• Inspirada & Cadence: newer construction, community events and lots of parks. More about Cadence.
• Lake Las Vegas: resort-style lakeside living on the east edge of town.
• Downtown & the Townsite: older homes, no HOAs in many areas, and a revitalized Water Street District.

Prices vary widely by neighborhood. Our latest market update has current valley-wide numbers, and we're happy to pull specifics for any area you're considering.

The weather: yes, it's hot

Summers are hot, often well over 100°F from June through August. Budget for higher air-conditioning bills, and look for shade and a pool if you can. The payoff comes the rest of the year: low humidity, mild winters, and spring and fall weather that's hard to beat. Heating bills are low, and you'll be outside in shorts while friends back home are shoveling snow.

Getting around

Henderson is built for cars. Most residents drive for daily errands. Interstate 11 (formerly I-515/US-95), the I-215 beltway and St. Rose Parkway connect Henderson to the rest of the valley and Harry Reid International Airport, usually about 15 to 25 minutes away. RTC buses serve the main corridors, but routes thin out the farther you get from them.

Things to do

• Outdoors: the River Mountains Loop Trail, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, and dozens of city parks and trails.
• Sports & entertainment: The Henderson Silver Knights (AHL hockey) play at Lee's Family Forum, Lifeguard Arena downtown offers public skating, and Henderson is home to the Raiders' headquarters and practice facility.
• Shopping & dining: The District at Green Valley Ranch, Henderson's Water Street District, and plenty of local restaurants across town.

Schools

Henderson is served by the Clark County School District, along with a large number of public charter and private schools. School options vary a lot by address, so check the specific zoned schools for any home you're considering and visit the schools you're interested in.

Setting up utilities

Depending on your address, you'll set up electric (NV Energy), water and sewer (City of Henderson Utility Services), gas (Southwest Gas), trash (Republic Services) and internet. We give every client a list of local providers and phone numbers before closing.