Before I moved to Summerlin, I honestly thought Las Vegas was just bright lights and casinos. Fast forward a few years, and I can't imagine calling anywhere else home.
Living here feels like I hit some kind of jackpot, not the flashy kind you see on the Strip, but the kind where your daily life just feels right.
Friends always ask me, "Is Summerlin a good place to live?" and I find myself giving the same answer if you want the perks of Las Vegas without actually feeling like you live in Las Vegas, this is the place.
Mornings start with coffee on my patio, looking out at Red Rock Canyon, and evenings usually end with a walk through one of the countless neighborhood parks. It’s quiet, safe, and somehow still close enough to all the action if I ever want it.
And trust me, moving here was the best decision I’ve made. If you're even slightly considering it, let someone who's already made the leap tell you Summerlin isn’t just a good place to live, it's a great one.
Quality of Life in Summerlin
Residents of Summerlin often praise the community for its high quality of life. The area boasts meticulously designed neighborhoods, ample outdoor spaces, and a variety of recreational facilities.
The presence of numerous parks, trails, and golf courses contributes to an active and healthy lifestyle.
Summerlin is a sprawling 22,500-acre master-planned community located on the western edge of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Developed by The Howard Hughes Corporation, it is divided into distinct villages, each with its unique character and amenities. The community is known for its well-maintained neighborhoods, abundant parks, and proximity to natural landscapes.
Cost of Living
While Summerlin offers an enviable lifestyle, it comes with a higher cost of living compared to other parts of Las Vegas and the national average.
The cost of living index in Summerlin stands at around 130.6, while it's 111.6 for Las Vegas and 100 for the national average. Housing expenses in Summerlin are notably 82% higher than the national average.
For a family, the recommended annual income to live comfortably in Summerlin South is approximately $108,000, while a single person should aim for around $72,000.
Housing Market
The housing market in Summerlin is characterized by higher median home prices compared to other Las Vegas neighborhoods. The median sale price of properties in Summerlin is currently $525,000, which is up 21.4% year-over-year. In contrast, the median sales price of Las Vegas is $364,752, up 23.3% over the past year.
This trend reflects the desirability of the area but also indicates a significant financial commitment for potential homeowners.
Education Opportunities
Summerlin is home to more than two dozen schools, including 10 nationally recognized private schools and 16 public schools. Several colleges and specialized higher education facilities are also located in the community, ensuring learning opportunities for residents of all ages.
Notable institutions include The Meadows School, which offers a rigorous academic program, and West Career and Technical Academy, a magnet public high school with various specialized programs.
Safety and Crime Rates
Safety is a crucial consideration for any potential resident. In Summerlin South, the crime rates are 44% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 50% lower.
However, Summerlin North presents a different scenario, with crime rates 125% higher than the national average, although violent crimes are 19% lower.
This disparity underscores the importance of researching specific neighborhoods within Summerlin.
Amenities and Recreation
Summerlin is renowned for its extensive amenities that cater to a variety of interests. The community boasts over 300 parks, more than 150 miles of trails, and multiple community centers equipped with fitness facilities, swimming pools, and spaces for events.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, offering hiking, biking, and climbing opportunities.
For golf aficionados, Summerlin is home to several world-class golf courses, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the sport year-round.
Transportation and Accessibility
Summerlin's infrastructure supports convenient access to major highways, facilitating commutes to downtown Las Vegas and other parts of the city. However, public transportation options are limited, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transport for most residents.
The community's design emphasizes walkability within neighborhoods, though the overall walkability score is relatively low.
Community and Lifestyle
The community-centric design of Summerlin fosters a strong sense of belonging among residents. Regular events, farmers' markets, and cultural festivals contribute to a vibrant local culture. The area also offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, ensuring that residents have access to urban conveniences without venturing far from home.
Best Neighborhoods in Summerlin to Consider
Summerlin is divided into three main areas: Summerlin North, Summerlin South, and Summerlin West. Each one offers something different, and choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference.
Summerlin North
This is the original part of Summerlin, and while it’s a bit more established, that charm can appeal to people who love mature landscaping and tree-lined streets.
Homes here tend to be more affordable than in other parts of Summerlin, and it’s close to many parks and schools. However, remember to do your homework on specific crime stats in this area, as they can vary by community.
Summerlin South
If safety is high on your priority list, Summerlin South is often considered one of the safest sections of the entire Las Vegas Valley. It's also home to some of the most luxurious homes in the area, including properties in The Ridges and The Summit. The closer you are to Red Rock Canyon, the higher the price tag, but the views are worth it.
Summerlin West
This is the newest and fastest-growing part of Summerlin, full of brand-new homes, modern amenities, and tons of families moving in. It’s an exciting area for those who want to get into a neighborhood while it’s still developing, and potentially see their investment grow. Developers continue to build out parks, schools, and shopping hubs here, making it ideal for younger families or professionals.
A Place to Raise a Family
If you have (or plan to have) kids, you’ll be glad to know Summerlin is often rated one of the best places to raise a family in Nevada.
The community is home to excellent schools, a ton of green space, and a family-friendly vibe that’s hard to miss. Safe neighborhoods, quiet streets, and community events make it feel like the kind of place you’d want your kids to grow up in.
The Summerlin Council organizes year-round activities like movie nights, summer camps, and seasonal festivals. Whether you’re watching fireworks on the Fourth of July or taking part in the Holiday Parade, there’s always something going on to keep your family engaged.
Pros and Cons of Living in Summerlin
Pros:
High Quality of Life: Well-planned neighborhoods with abundant amenities.
Educational Opportunities: Access to reputable schools and educational institutions.
Safety: Lower crime rates in certain areas, particularly Summerlin South.
Recreational Facilities: Numerous parks, trails, and proximity to natural attractions.
Cons:
High Cost of Living: Notably higher housing and living expenses compared to national averages.
Variable Crime Rates: Disparities between different neighborhoods necessitate careful selection.
Limited Public Transportation: Dependence on personal vehicles due to scarce public transit options.
Is Summerlin a Good Place to Live?
For many, the answer is a resounding yes. The community offers a blend of suburban comfort, excellent amenities, and a high standard of living.
However, the higher cost of living and housing market prices are significant considerations. Prospective residents should weigh these factors carefully and explore specific neighborhoods to find the best fit for their lifestyle and budget.
Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or looking to retire in a peaceful yet connected environment, Summerlin presents a compelling case.
If you do decide to make the move, working with experienced Summerlin movers can make the transition seamless.
