Nevada is a great state for retirees who want to stay active and enjoy an exciting life during their golden years. Start your next adventure when you explore Nevada’s breathtaking natural scenery. Hiking, biking, and motocross are popular here. World-class entertainment, dining, shopping, and gambling are also on the table in this state.
NewHomeSource found the top cities to retire in Nevada. You can find the perfect place to make your new home and start living the life you always dreamed about in your retirement.
Top 10 Cities to Retire in Nevada
1. Fernley
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 14.1%
Median Home Value: $352,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 66
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 214
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Fernley is a beautiful suburb located about 40 miles east of Reno. The city has 10 community parks for leisurely strolls and outdoor enjoyment. Nearby, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the vast Bureau of Land Management land, which constitutes over 85% of Nevada, offering opportunities for hiking and camping.
Proximity to Reno-Sparks opens up a wider range of entertainment, dining, and cultural options. The Fernley Senior Center provides a hub for social engagement, offering daily lunch, health and wellness activities, and various social service programs. Healthcare in Fernley includes facilities like the Banner Health Center.
2. Elko
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 12.8%
Median Home Value: $285,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 110
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 359
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Elko is a vibrant city in Northeastern Nevada, perfect for retirees who aren’t in the mood to live near the energetic city of Las Vegas. This fun community has a wealth of museums where you can explore everything from cowboy culture to natural history. Retirees who want to enjoy mother nature should head over to the Elko Hot Springs for enjoyable hiking and unbeatable relaxation. South Fork State Recreation Area provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping.
For retirees, Elko's appeal lies in its access to outdoor recreation and a more relaxed lifestyle. The city is the gateway to the Ruby Mountains, often called Nevada's Alps, offering exceptional opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Healthcare in Elko includes the Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospitals.
3. Mesquite
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 45.0%
Median Home Value: $374,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 43
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 272
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Mesquite is a fun suburb of Las Vegas that has something for everyone. In addition to easy access to Las Vegas and St. George, Utah, Mesquite offers up beautiful views of Nevada’s desert scenery, and even has a camel safari for retirees who want to take a walk on the wild side. The proximity to the Arizona border also puts attractions like the Grand Canyon within a day trip's reach. For well-rounded engagement, the Mesquite Community and Senior Center will fill your calendar with activities.
The city boasts seven championship golf courses, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts. Outdoor lovers can explore nearby natural wonders like the Virgin River Gorge and the Valley of Fire State Park. The Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery and the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum offer cultural enrichment. For entertainment, Mesquite has several casinos with various gaming options and live shows.
4. North Las Vegas
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 12.0%
Median Home Value: $372,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 763
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 6,063
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 23
North Las Vegas truly has the best of all possible worlds. Retirees can enjoy easy access to all the sights, sounds, and fun of Las Vegas proper, without the constant noise, crowds, warm climate, and crazy. North Las Vegas also has a notably lower cost of living than the heart of Sin City, so you can live your best life for less.
Within North Las Vegas itself, there are several golf courses, community centers offering senior programs, and local casinos that cater to residents. The city also has a number of parks and recreation areas for outdoor activities. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is nearby offering scenic drives and hiking trails. Healthcare options in North Las Vegas are expanding, with several hospitals and medical facilities located within the city.
5. Las Vegas
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.6%
Median Home Value: $395,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 7,850
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 51,636
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 23
Las Vegas is as fun a place to retire to as it is to visit. This vibrant city has a low cost of living and a thriving urban atmosphere, perfect for anyone who wants to live life to the fullest. From museums to casinos, there is always some fun to be found in Sin City. While it's the largest city in Nevada, major cities like Los Angeles are about a four-hour drive southwest, and Phoenix is approximately a five-hour drive southeast.
For retirees, Las Vegas offers more than just casinos. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, numerous world-class restaurants, and a wide array of entertainment from live shows to sporting events. Many active adult communities cater specifically to retirees, offering social clubs, fitness centers, and organized activities. The moderate climate for much of the year is also a draw for those seeking sunshine. Robust healthcare, multiple senior citizen centers, and outdoor recreation ensure a well-rounded retirement.
6. Carson City
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.8%
Median Home Value: $426,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 181
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 759
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 9
Retirees looking to invest in lakefront living during their golden years can’t go wrong when they choose Carson City for their new home. This beautiful, and affordable, community on the banks of Lake Tahoe gives active adults plentiful access to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and endless opportunities to explore mother nature at the Sierra Nevada mountains and Lake Tahoe.
The city boasts several museums, including the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Railroad Museum. The Carson City Senior Center offers a wide array of programs and services. The well-kept city parks, such as Mills Park and Fuji Park, offers picnic areas, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Explore numerous state parks, including Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park with its beautiful beaches and hiking trails, and Washoe Lake State Park, popular for birdwatching and water sports.
7. Boulder City
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 29.1%
Median Home Value: $424,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 26
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 134
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 15
Boulder City is a beautiful community on the shores of the Hoover Dam. Retirees who want to enjoy the desert will have easy access to Las Vegas, without the constant noise. Explore Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Excellent healthcare and senior programs are available.
Within easy reach are several city parks like Veterans' Memorial Park and Bicentennial Park. For an enriching lifestyle, this Nevada locale has it all.
8. Sparks
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.6%
Median Home Value: $455,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 426
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 2,494
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 9
Sparks is a charming suburb of Reno that offers retirees a wonderful quality of life. This thriving town serves up tons of fun and plenty of natural beauty for active adults who want to stay healthy and engaged as they start their golden years. Sparks has plenty of casinos, museums, and an outlet mall! Stay engaged with active senior citizen centers.
The Sparks Senior Center is a popular hub, offering social events, fitness classes, arts and crafts, and educational programs. The city features numerous parks, including the expansive Sparks Marina Park, which provides walking trails, fishing, and scenic views. Victorian Square in downtown Sparks hosts events, farmers' markets, and offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. Additionally, the proximity to Reno expands opportunities for cultural events, casinos, and shopping.
Healthcare in Sparks is robust, with several major medical facilities. Sparks itself has numerous well-maintained city parks like Shadow Mountain Park and Golden Eagle Regional Park. Spend time at Pyramid Lake, known for its stunning scenery and fishing. The Sierra Nevada mountains are also easily accessible for scenic drives and outdoor adventures.
9. Henderson
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.4%
Median Home Value: $465,000
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 991
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 6,974
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 23
Henderson has something for all types of retirees, no matter what you love to do. If you want to skip the Strip and focus on staying active and healthy while exploring the great outdoors, Henderson is brimming with opportunities for you to enjoy including over 70 parks. The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area and the Red Rock Canyon National Park are beautiful hiking spots that showcase the sublime expanse of Nevada.
Golf courses and an extensive network of parks and trails provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. For those seeking a quieter pace, Henderson has its own cultural attractions, including the Clark County Museum and the Water Street District with its local shops and restaurants. Access to medical care is easy as are great senior centers.
10. Reno
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 16.3%
Median Home Value: $498,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 1,655
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 7,352
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 10
Reno, the biggest little town in the world, is a fun place for retirees who want an urban environment with small town charm. If you want to stay active during your retirement, Reno puts you close to the beautiful Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe National Forest. The National Bowling Stadium, the Animal Ark, and the Discovery Tree serve up fun for all ages indoors.
Healthcare is found at Renown Health and Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center. The city also has multiple senior citizen centers, such as the Neil Road Recreation Center and the Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center, which offer a variety of programs and activities tailored for seniors. Reno maintains numerous city parks, providing green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. Median home price, number of hospitals, 65+ population, and crime rates were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city whose population is at least 10,000.
Common Questions About Retiring in Nevada
Is Nevada a good retirement state?
Nevada is a great state for retirees looking to make their savings last. Social security benefits are not taxed, nor are withdraws from retirement accounts and public or private pensions. The state also has no state income taxes if you have a working spouse or children living with you.
How much do you need to retire in Las Vegas?
Realistically, to live comfortably in Las Vegas, you’ll need an annual income of $40,000 to $50,000. This allows for emergencies, savings, and for a night out every once in a while on the Strip. Granted, the average median household income is $70,723.
Is Henderson a good place to retire in Nevada?
Henderson, NV is a great place to retirees thanks to its proximity to Las Vegas and exciting outdoor experiences.
Do seniors pay property taxes in Nevada?
While there is no general property tax exemption for seniors, there are a number of specific programs from which some retirees may benefit. The exemptions available include a veteran’s exemption that is available to veterans who served in active duty during a recognized war period.
| City | People Over 65 | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Hospitals Within 25 Miles | Median Home Price |
| Fernley | 14.1% | 66 | 214 | 1 | $352,600 |
| Elko | 12.8% | 110 | 359 | 1 | $285,400 |
| Mesquite | 45.0% | 43 | 272 | 1 | $374,400 |
| North Las Vegas | 12.0% | 763 | 6,063 | 23 | $372,300 |
| Las Vegas | 15.6% | 7,850 | 51,636 | 23 | $395,300 |
| Carson City | 20.8% | 181 | 759 | 9 | $426,700 |
| Boulder City | 29.1% | 26 | 134 | 15 | $424,200 |
| Sparks | 15.6% | 426 | 2,494 | 9 | $455,900 |
| Henderson | 20.4% | 991 | 6,974 | 23 | $465,000 |
| Reno | 16.3% | 1,655 | 7,352 | 10 | $498,600 |
Access to Doctors is calculated by finding the number of hospitals, discounting children’s hospitals and VA hospitals within one mile of the city.
Other Nevada Resources
Best Tiny Home Builders in Nevada
The Healthiest States to Live In
How to Build a House in Nevada
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Nevada
Your Guide to Closing Costs in Nevada in 2021
Top Master Planned Communities near Reno, Nevada
Best Master Planned Communities near Las Vegas
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Nevada
Top 10 Safest Cities in Nevada
Jessi Gonzalez
Jessi Gonzalez writes on the topics of home-buying, home decor, and home-ownership for NewHomeSource. She has a degree from Coastal Bend College and is currently enrolled in the English degree program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.