Summerlin South, NV vs. Las Vegas, NV: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison between Summerlin South and Las Vegas. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Summerlin South vs Las Vegas in 2025.
Imagine Sarah, a marketing manager earning $5,500 per month before taxes. If she rents a typical 2-bedroom apartment, her monthly housing costs would be:
- Summerlin South: $1,850
- Las Vegas: $1,650
Budgeting $500 for groceries, Sarah would spend:
- Summerlin South: $475
- Las Vegas: $450
Now let’s dive into a full cost of living breakdown, with all figures reflecting gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs in Summerlin South vs. Las Vegas
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage payments compare:
| Housing Type | Summerlin South | Las Vegas |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| 3BR House | $2,400 | $2,100 |
🏆 Winner: Las Vegas, with housing costs averaging 10-15% lower than Summerlin South.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between the two cities, with the average household spending:
- Summerlin South: $180/month
- Las Vegas: $175/month
Both areas have high summer cooling costs balanced by mild winters. Las Vegas offers more public utility assistance programs for low-income households.
🏆 Winner: Las Vegas, but only slightly. Utility costs are comparable.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Summerlin South are about 5% higher than Las Vegas. A family of four might spend $900/month on food in Summerlin South compared to $850 in Las Vegas.
Restaurant prices are more variable, but fast casual meals average $12-14 in both cities. Upscale dining is pricier in Summerlin South.
🏆 Winner: Las Vegas for slightly lower grocery and restaurant costs.
Taxes and Fees
Nevada has no state income tax, so the tax landscape is similar. However:
- Summerlin South has higher property taxes, averaging 1.1% vs 0.9% in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas has more tax assistance programs for seniors, veterans, and disabled residents
- HOA fees in Summerlin South often include landscaping and trash, while Las Vegas residents pay separately
🏆 Winner: Las Vegas for its lower property taxes and assistance programs, despite fewer HOA perks.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Summerlin South | Las Vegas |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $475 | $450 |
| Transportation | $60 | $50 |
| Taxes | 1.1% property tax | 0.9% property tax |
| Misc | $350 | $325 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,915 in Summerlin South | $2,650 in Las Vegas |
Lifestyle Fit
Summerlin South offers more space, highly-rated schools, and a quieter suburban feel. But Las Vegas has better walkability, shorter commutes, and more extensive public transit.
Summerlin South averages 5°F cooler than central Las Vegas in the summer months. But both cities are very car-dependent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Summerlin South more affordable than Las Vegas?
Overall, Las Vegas is more affordable, with lower housing, food, and transportation costs. See our full cost of living overview for Summerlin South.
Which city has lower rent?
Las Vegas rents are 10-15% lower on average. A typical 2BR apartment is $1,650/month vs $1,850 in Summerlin South.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Las Vegas has lower home prices and property taxes. For a realistic look at homeownership costs, see our average monthly expenses in Summerlin South.
The Bottom Line
For most lifestyles, Las Vegas is more affordable than Summerlin South, with meaningfully lower housing, food, and transportation costs.
However, Summerlin South may be worth the premium for families prioritizing space, schools, and quieter neighborhoods. Young professionals and those reliant on public transit will likely prefer Las Vegas.
Considering other Nevada cities? Check out our other cost of living comparisons for Reno, Henderson, and Carson City.