Henderson vs Summerlin: Living and Community Life
It’s no secret that Southern Nevada has grown beyond what anyone anticipated over the years, with locals and transplants alike looking for the perfect place to call home. Most people searching for their “real” Vegas home have likely heard that two of the hottest areas are Summerlin and Henderson. But they may not know which community would be the best fit for them. When comparing Henderson vs Summerlin, both are very popular and each has a particular draw for various reasons. So, which one is right for you? Let’s chat and find out.
Henderson
Did you know that Henderson is the second-largest city in Nevada? And according to some articles, it is one of the safest cities in the US. It is technically a separate city, with its own fire and police departments. They even have their own elected officials, building codes, and licensing departments. Still, none of that is apparent when you’re driving down the road—Henderson, located in the southeast valley east of I15 and South of the 215 Beltway. Henderson has beautiful shopping areas, restaurants, parks, entertainment venues, local casinos and hotels, and so much more. For the littles in your home, you have access to top-rated schools, including public, private, charter, and magnet schools. Residents also have just a short drive to lake mead, lake Las Vegas water parks, sporting events, and the Las Vegas Strip.
Houses in Henderson range from condos & townhomes to starter homes, multi-million dollar mansions, and everything in between. In some areas of Henderson, you can find beautiful homes with the backdrop of your favorite golf course or a million-dollar Las Vegas Strip view which is hard to beat anywhere in the city. If you’ve had your heart set on a new build, you’re in luck; Inspirada, Lake Las Vegas, and Cadence, and all still building their stunningly beautiful new communities. Henderson is located 16 miles from the strip, depending on which area of Henderson you choose. If you travel frequently, Henderson is about a twenty-minute drive. Lastly, let’s not forget that Henderson is home to the Henderson Silver Knights hockey team and The Raiders practice facility.
Summerlin
This area of Southern Nevada is as westerly as you can get when living in Las Vegas. Although not technically a city, it is a stunningly beautiful master-planned community that the Howard Hughes Corporation painstakingly constructed over thirty years. Much like Henderson, Summerlin has gorgeous shopping areas, world-class dining, as well as local favorites that we’d love to share with you. The housing market is strong. Plus, Summerlin residents enjoy the outdoor trial system, events, 1/2 marathons, parades, and the healthy living lifestyle that Summerlin is known for.
Neighborhoods in Summerlin are thoughtfully laid out in a series of villages, each unique from the rest but all with a cohesive overall design. You can find golf course homes, starter homes, luxury condos, guard-gated, staff gated, and stunning views of the mountains and The Strip. You might even see a Golden Knight player or two if you’re lucky. Let’s not forget you are only minutes away from Red Rock Canyon, the Vegas Golden Knights practice arena, City National Arena, and the Las Vegas Ballpark.
Lifestyle
Comparing the lifestyle of Henderson vs Summerlin is difficult when they are both great places to live, but they each have a unique style and attractions that might sway you one way or the other. Let’s start with Summerlin…
Summerlin has an affluent suburban feel expanding from west of Hualapai and extending north and south. Summerlin has been building for the past thirty years, so you will find resales and new construction homes as there are at least 20 years of homes and commercial projects left to complete. Prices will also vary depending on where you buy within the area. Still, overall, Summerlin maintains its property value exceptionally well and tends to afford residents a fantastic return on their investment when selling. Summerlin is a great place for growing families with some of the best private, public, charter, and magnet schools in Southern Nevada. Retired couples, or even those who will never retire but your age qualifies you, Summerlin has many of the most desirable age-qualified communities in Southern Nevada, with thriving social calendars and amenities galore. With 250 parks, 10 golf courses, 150 miles of trails, minor-league baseball, fabulous restaurants, casinos, great shopping, and more, there is always something to do with the family, friends, or date night in Summerlin.
Downtown Summerlin is one of the best areas of town to spend an evening. This is a hot spot for dining, shopping or catching the latest movie release. It’s easy to access and fits every budget from casual to upscale. The Summerlin community hosts a number of activities, with group yoga, farmers markets, community shows, and events that abide by local safety guidelines.
Now let’s talk Henderson, the city of Henderson is also great for people to enjoy outside and family activities — With 66 parks, 184 miles of beautiful trails, golf courses, and shopping and dining found throughout Henderson. Just like Summerlin, Henderson is home to some of the best shopping and dining experiences in Southern Nevada, including The District at Green Valley, Water Street district, and the Galleria Mall which has been recently updated with new looks, dining, and stores.
Henderson is 3x the size of Summerlin, so there are many unique neighborhoods but no less of a community vibe. For example, some neighborhoods in Henderson were built during the construction of the Hoover Dam for housing the workers. The rich history of Henderson can be felt in the pride the city takes in celebrating its accomplishments. Because Henderson is not a master-planned community, the neighborhoods might not be as cohesive but guaranteed with all Henderson offers; it’s still a great location. Growing families, retirees looking for exclusively age-qualified housing, or if you’re looking for a luxury custom-built home high above the city with killer views of the famous Las Vegas Strip, you can find your ideal spot in Henderson.
Buying a home
Let’s get to the real deal about buying a home in Summerlin or Henderson. It’s good to understand the real estate in different areas to see which fits your lifestyle and budget.
Starter homes in Henderson average around $350,000-$375,000 in 2021, making them excellent homes for first-time home buyers, investors, and buyers on a budget. However, Summerlin starter homes tend to cost a bit more on average, with prices starting at around $400,000. So, if you’re looking for something more affordable, Henderson is your best bet. But, if you’re looking for a newer home with a beautiful neighborhood and community feeling, Summerlin is where you want to be.
Both Henderson and Summerlin offer many great places to live but choosing which community feels like home is where our search leads us. Summerlin is home to 26 villages, all with a unique feel and price point. Some Summerlin villages include The Cliffs, the Trails, Stonebridge, Red Rock Country Club, and the Ridges. These villages and neighborhoods all offer amenities like golf courses, community centers, and different style homes, including single-story, two-story, and condos.
Should I live in Summerlin or Henderson?
The big question! Where’s the best place in Southern Nevada to buy your “real” Las Vegas home? Whether you decide on Summerlin or Henderson, you cannot go wrong. All cities and communities, no matter the size, have unique communities and hidden gems. When it comes down to it, it’s all about price, preference, and location. Both are great places to live in Southern Nevada, but one might be a better fit for you. So, what are you thinking? Henderson vs Summerlin? If you are leaning towards Summerlin but don’t know where to begin, let’s chat. I can give you all the information you need to get started looking for a Summerlin home you love.