A young woman we are very close to is interviewing for a job that would require a move to Las Vegas. I admit I’ve only driven through a few times but I have a negative feeling about the place. Am I wrong? The job would be with a fairly well known company that is headquartered in the Vegas area.
I have never lived there, but I love to visit. 
If that is the co that outfits my running shoe needs, fingers crossed for her to get that job!
Lots depends. Have a friend who has moved to Vegas because her bro lives there and cost of living is SO MUCH LESS than HI. She lives in a gated community, new subdivision and is paying less than she paid as a renter for a smaller, older HI place. Have heard that public schools there are even worse than HI, but no personal experience. My friend is very happy in Vegas and there are quite a few moving from HI to Vegas.
Bunsen I think you guessed it.
I’ve lived in Las Vegas for 20 years. Like any metro area of 2 million or so, there are desirable and undesirable locations. A young professional should earn enough to live in a good location.
Housing is more affordable than many other cities in the southwest. The quality of public schools depends heavily on the location - don’t be scared away by the awful averages. The weather isn’t great, but at least there isn’t any snow - lol. Entertainment, dining, and shopping are all terrific. Traffic is not too bad. No state income tax.
There is a downtown revitalization going on that is attractive to young many professionals. If she will be working downtown, she could have a walkable commute if she desired urban living.
I hope the young woman fits in the company’s culture.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/19/business/at-zappos-selling-shoes-and-a-vision.html
Close family members lived there for years. They said much of what LVKris says in post #5. They were able to live in one of the nicest areas of town but ended up with the kids in private schools. Would be a good place for a young person.
Cbreeze- I sent her the article. She said she has been reading a lot about it but is making the choice to remain positive. She has had 1 interview and I think will have another. She isn’t my D but a close friend of our family.
We lived in LV years ago and after my father died my mother didn’t want to raise us in sin city.
I know someone who moved there a year or so ago. They seem happy. Cost of living is great.
My wife grew up in Henderson, a suburb of LV, and my mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and his family still live there. I agree about sending your kids to a private school. I would look specifically at Green Valley area (Henderson) or Boulder City, however these areas are pricey in comparison to other areas of LV. Summerlin may also be a contender but it is in the opposite corner of town from the areas I just mentioned. I also like some of the areas above The District at Green Valley Ranch Shopping Center, near the 215 freeway.