6 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Nevada
Also known as the Silver State, Nevada promises plenty of sunshine and an endless supply of entertainment. Yes, there are plenty of big cities with many perks, but equally beautiful are the small towns dotted around the state with a smaller price tag. Nevada also welcomes retirees with open arms. It is a tax-friendly state, as it does not have a state income tax. Furthermore, numerous retirement communities offer residents endless amenities. If you are close to retiring and looking for a new place to call home, consider these six most affordable towns to retire in Nevada.
Mesquite
Mesquite is a small town in Clark County, Nevada. The 2024 population is 23,364 of which 17,738 are adults and 9,245 are senior citizens. Many retirees (especially those who love golf) flock to the area. While the median cost of a home is higher than the national average, most residents own their homes.
The Mesquite government runs a successful senior center that offers retirees hot lunches, fun events, and health and fitness activities. There are at least six golf courses around town (Oasis, Conestoga, and Wolf Creek golf clubs), three casinos (Eureka Casino Resort, Virgin River Hotel and Casino), and several restaurants.
Fernley
Fernley, which is located in Lyon County, is a safe town. Much like Mesquite, the median home value in Fernley is higher than the national average, but luckily, Nevada has no state income tax. Most residents own their homes but if you choose to rent, the median cost will be $1,351.
Additionally, Fernley has an above-average livability score, taking into consideration crime rates, cost of living, and the happiness of residents. The town has 10 parks which feature tennis courts and a rodeo, and is close to Pyramid Lake, Lake Tahoe, Walker Lake, and Lahontan Reservoir which are all stunning.
Winnemucca
The town has 8,372 residents, of which approximately 11% are over 65. It is situated in Humboldt County and has a suburban feel. The median cost of a home is at par with the national average but rent is lower at $899. It is a relatively safe town that has been ranked as one of the best places to live in Nevada by Niche.
Residents of the town have plenty to see and do, such as visiting the Humboldt Museum, Thousand Creek Gorge, Winnemucca Sand Dunes, and the Royal Peacock Black Fire Opal Mine. The town is filled with cafes and eateries including the Bella Grazia wine bar.
Ely
17% of Ely’s residents are retirees. Located in White Pine County, this small town is home to 3,957 people. The median cost of a home in Ely is $185,900 which is lower than the national average. Rent is also lower than the national average at $982. 63% of residents own their homes.
Ely is a safe place to call home, has several parks (Ely City Park, Blanche Park, and Broadbent Park) and bars (Racks Bar and Grill and the Outpost Bar) and the cost of living is 27.7% lower than the national average. The Great Basin Medical Center is easily accessible to all residents and offers both emergency and specialty services.
Lovelock
Lovelock has 1,675 residents and a median home value of $160,400 (lower than the national average). Rent is quite low at an average of $696, which is why 51% of residents choose to rent. Lovelock is quite safe and has a cost of living that is 26.3% lower than the state average.
For recreation, retirees can visit the Marzen House Museum to learn about the town's history, drive to Lake Lahontan, and explore the Lovelock Cave & Backcountry Byway. The cave is a 20-minute drive away and is especially important as thousands of indigenous artifacts were discovered there.
Pahrump
Situated in Nye County, Pahrump is a small town with a population of 44,711. Approximately 25% of the population are senior citizens. The median home value is $251,100 which is slightly lower than the national average. The town is well-known for low crime rates and accessible healthcare.
Nevada Urgent Care and the Desert View Hospital provide general and emergency services. The cost of living in Pahrump is 6.5% lower than the country average and 14.8% lower than the state average. The town hosts several annual events such as the Fall Festival in September. Discovery Park is a great place to hike, bike, or bird watch (with 176 species).
Whether you are retired or soon to retire and looking for a new place to call home, Nevada is one of the top places to consider. From bird watching in Pahrump’s Discovery Park to golfing at Mesquite’s Wolf Creek Golf Club, the towns listed above are naturally beautiful, have lower taxes and a great cost of living, and above all, are welcoming. So, if you are looking for somewhere to settle down, be sure to consider these six most affordable towns to retire in Nevada.
