Las Vegas: A City That Aids and Abides or a Challenge Bound?
Las Vegas is a city that once lured many with its promise of opportunities and lower taxes. This city, located at the base of the continental United States' highest mountain range, has transformed over the decades. Some find it an idyllic escape with endless possibilities, while others view it as a challenging domicile fraught with persistent issues that have yet to fully resolve.
Coming to Las Vegas in the Early 80s
My journey to Las Vegas began in 1982 from San Diego, a city known for its warm and inviting climate. I chose Las Vegas for the better pay and, importantly, the lack of a state income tax. Life here did not differ greatly from other cities of similar size where I had lived before. We seldom ventured into casinos unless it was for a meal or a musical event. Everything else, from schools to churches, resembled any other city I had encountered, which was both familiar and comforting.
The two aspects that stand out for me as things we do not particularly like: the summer heat and the noticeable changes that occurred over the years. Summer heat can reach 110 degrees without much humidity. Even living in the South now, I find our humidity at 95 degrees preferable to the 115-degree heat that Las Vegas can hit in mid-October. Moreover, 300 days of sunshine could become monotonous. It’s a testament to the seemingly relentless sunshine, as residents often long for more rain.
The people seemed superficial to me, with status serving as the ultimate goal. High school trappings continued into adulthood, with a lack of authenticity and empathy in interpersonal dynamics. This was even more pronounced for single individuals, and especially for men seeking romantic partners.
Born and Raised in Las Vegas: Insights from a Local
I was born and raised in Las Vegas and left in my late 20s. Here are some insights about what I loved and what I detested about life here:
Loved:
24-hour access to many things made it incredibly convenient. This is a luxury not available in many large cities, and you can play poker or engage in other activities as long as you want.
No state tax, which means that residents keep more of their hard-earned money. Additionally, the tax system is smoother compared to other states.
Hated:
The Weather: While the heat does pale in comparison to Charlotte, where I now live, it is still unbearable. The lack of humidity can make even a 100-degree day feel more harsh. The sunshiny weather, while beautiful, doesn’t change one’s subjective experience of hot weather.
The People: For those less wealthy, less attractive, introverted, or with a particular personality type, Las Vegas can be a caustic environment. The fear of being exploited by others who can take advantage of you is prevalent. Social interactions are superficial, and empathy is scarce.
The Traffic: Even compared to southern cities, traffic can be extremely chaotic, particularly with California drivers adding their unique brand of driving habits. It's not uncommon for people to drive in the wrong lanes or cut in front of others.
The Schools: Education is a critical issue. Students from Clark County often perform poorly compared to those outside. funding in UNLV was more for luxuries rather than essentials. The local schools have not seen significant improvements over the years, which can be disheartening for young families.
The Infrastructure and Pay: While there has been some improvement, the infrastructure is still lacking for a major city. Additionally, pay for professional jobs, especially in tech, is lower than in other metro areas. However, the job market and economy have only partially recovered since the Great Recession, providing a challenging economic climate.
The Food: While the experience on the Strip is world-class, it comes with a hefty price tag. Food outside the Strip is available at a lower cost but often disappointing in quality.
The Appearance: The city, while beautiful in its own way, is not aesthetically pleasing. Within city limits, many areas are rundown and the image of the city does not match the reality of living there. Raising a family in Las Vegas carries its unique set of challenges, many of which are born from the aforementioned issues.
In conclusion: Las Vegas, while offering convenience and a variety of lifestyle opportunities, is not without its challenges. The city's image is often more glamorous than the experience of those who live there. While some enjoy the city life, others find it a struggle. Each must weigh the pros and cons based on their personal circumstances and preferences.