When active adults and retirees start planning their next move, two names always stand out: Las Vegas and Henderson. Both offer sunshine, beautiful 55+ communities, and resort-style amenities—but the lifestyle in each city is uniquely different.
If you're wondering which location better fits your retirement goals, this guide breaks it all down by amenities, community feel, home pricing, and accessibility.
Community Personality & Lifestyle
Henderson is a true city with its own government and civic identity. It’s known for its quiet, suburban atmosphere, master-planned neighborhoods, and more than 220 miles of walking and biking trails. Henderson regularly ranks as one of the safest cities in the country and offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life.
Las Vegas, particularly the Summerlin area, has a vibrant, urban energy with a luxury twist. Summerlin is a master-planned community featuring lush landscaping, access to Red Rock Canyon, world-class shopping at Downtown Summerlin, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. It's ideal for those who want a little more excitement with their retirement lifestyle.
Top 55+ Communities in Henderson
Sun City Anthem offers resort-style living with golf, multiple fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, a full theater, social clubs, and panoramic Strip views.
Sun City MacDonald Ranch is a smaller, intimate golf community with strong resale value, a walkable layout, and beautiful desert scenery.
Solera at Anthem is a more affordable, low-maintenance community that still provides access to the high-end amenities of the Anthem master plan.
Heritage at Cadence offers brand new homes, modern layouts, and a large private recreation center within the Cadence master-planned community.
Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas delivers a luxury lakeside experience with contemporary homes, fitness facilities, retail access, and quiet resort-style living.
Top 55+ Communities in Las Vegas (Summerlin and Beyond)
Siena is an elegant community near Downtown Summerlin offering golf, spa services, indoor and outdoor pools, and scenic walking trails.
Sun City Summerlin is the largest 55+ community in the state with over 7,000 homes, three golf courses, four clubhouses, and more than 80 clubs and activities.
Trilogy Sunstone is a modern, new-construction neighborhood with upscale designs, a state-of-the-art clubhouse, and a community focus on wellness and social connection.
Regency at Summerlin is a gated Toll Brothers community featuring luxurious homes, curated events, and a contemporary, resort-style clubhouse.
Del Webb at North Ranch in North Las Vegas offers brand new homes, gated privacy, and a peaceful environment with well-designed amenities.
Housing Styles and Pricing
Henderson and Las Vegas both offer a mix of single-story homes, townhomes, and low-maintenance condos designed for 55+ living.
In Henderson, home prices generally range from the low $400,000s up to over $1.3 million, depending on the community, lot size, and upgrades. Options like Solera at Anthem and MacDonald Ranch are more accessible, while Sun City Anthem and Del Webb Lake Las Vegas cater to buyers seeking resort-style luxury.
In Las Vegas, especially in Summerlin, prices start in the mid $400,000s and can exceed $1 million in communities like Siena or Regency. Sun City Summerlin provides value with a wide range of home sizes and prices, while Trilogy and Regency appeal to those looking for modern architecture and high-end amenities.
Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
Henderson is closer to Lake Mead, the River Mountains Loop Trail, and local suburban parks. It offers easy access to Henderson Hospital, grocery stores, shopping centers, and everyday conveniences. If you prefer a quieter, residential setting with access to nature, Henderson may be your perfect fit.
Las Vegas and Summerlin are closer to Red Rock Canyon, the Las Vegas Strip, and a greater variety of restaurants, entertainment venues, and shopping destinations. If you’re looking for a dynamic lifestyle with upscale conveniences and curated social events, Summerlin might be ideal for you.
Which City Is Better for 55+ Living?
Henderson is best for those who prefer a quiet, suburban lifestyle with beautifully maintained neighborhoods, scenic parks, and a sense of separation from the bustle of the Strip. It’s ideal for buyers who want peace, space, and simplicity in a refined desert setting.
Las Vegas—especially Summerlin—is ideal for active adults who crave walkable neighborhoods, engaging social environments, easy access to top-tier dining and entertainment, and beautiful master-planned communities with a little more energy.
Still Deciding Between Las Vegas or Henderson?
Let me help you explore both. I offer private tours, insider guidance, and curated 55+ home lists tailored to your lifestyle.
Contact Rachel Black Johnson
Broker, RBJ Group Real Estate
Call or Text: 702-400-3647
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.rbj-group.com
