Las Vegas, Nevada – Finding an affordable and livable place to settle down as a retired couple surviving on only Social Security benefits can be challenging, especially in Nevada. With limited options in the Silver State, it’s crucial to carefully consider the seven cities with a livability score of at least 70 and a cost of living within reach of the average combined Social Security benefit for a couple, which amounts to $3,811 a month, according to the most recent data from the Social Security Administration.
Nevada is the seventh-largest state in the U.S., but it has a relatively small population, with only about 120 cities to choose from. Most of the state’s residents are concentrated in Las Vegas and the surrounding Clark County, making it challenging to find suitable retirement destinations outside of these urban areas.
Despite the limited options, Nevada offers tax friendliness with no state income tax and relatively low property taxes, as well as opportunities for recreation and entertainment, especially in Las Vegas. However, the state does come with its drawbacks, including extreme temperatures and limited access to healthcare in more rural areas.
The top seven cities in Nevada for retirees on a Social Security-only budget are Henderson, Sparks, North Las Vegas, Gardnerville, Reno, Las Vegas, and Laughlin. These cities offer varying degrees of affordability and livability, with each having its own unique attractions and amenities for retirees to enjoy.
For example, Henderson, located just southeast of Las Vegas, has seen considerable growth in recent decades and offers attractions such as the Lion Habitat Ranch, Lake Las Vegas, and the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve. Conversely, North Las Vegas has grown from less than 50,000 residents in 1990 to about 281,000 residents today, with a variety of parks, trails, and entertainment venues for residents to enjoy.
In terms of affordability, Laughlin stands out with the lowest average monthly rents and cost of living, making it a potentially attractive option for retirees looking to stretch their Social Security benefits further. Despite being a resort town with fewer than 10,000 residents, Laughlin offers a range of recreational activities along the Colorado River.
To compile this list, GOBankingRates analyzed various factors, including cost-of-living indexes, average monthly rent costs, and livability scores, to determine the most suitable cities in Nevada for retirees living on Social Security benefits. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights for retired couples seeking the best places to settle down and make the most of their fixed income in the Silver State.