Great Las Vegas neighborhoods: Comparing cost, crime, schools and more

Photographs by Christopher Devargas, Mikayla Whitmore and L.E. Baskow

An overview of nine neighborhoods in the Las Vegas Valley.

Home means Nevada, and as our state song suggests, there’s much more to living here than cookie-cutter houses.

As the state recovers from the economic downturn, neighborhoods across Southern Nevada are re-emerging, thanks to new construction, renovation projects and renewed interest among buyers and renters.

To be sure, the valley’s neighborhoods are shaped by the region’s history and the people who make up our community. Many of our neighborhoods have a distinct feel that attracts a particular type of person: young families, outdoor enthusiasts, artists, techies and entrepreneurs.

But vibe only goes so far. There are other factors to consider when choosing where to live: price, location, safety and schools, for instance.

To help you out, we’ve explored the valley’s real estate market and found the nine particularly interesting spots: historic neighborhoods, retirement communities, environmental escapes, neighborhoods with golf courses, hidden gems, downtown living, high-rises, luxury estates and horse properties.

Historic Neighborhoods

    • Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Paradise Palms

      Less than a square mile in size, Paradise Palms was the first planned community in Clark County. Developed by Irwin Molasky and completed in the 1960s, it borders the Las Vegas National Golf Course, known then as the Stardust Country Club.

      The neighborhood’s proximity to the Strip and Palm Springs-inspired architecture made Paradise Palms an attractive place for early Vegas icons such as Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal and Dean Martin.

      Hit by short sales and foreclosures during the recession, the neighborhood today is poised to make a comeback; the tract includes a mix of renovated retro-chic homes and others that still need work. The area is a great fit for history buffs who don’t mind a project.

      Schools:

      Ruby S. Thomas Elementary School: 2/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

      William E. Orr Middle School: 2/5 stars

      Valley High School: 2/5 stars

      Pricing:

      What you’ll find: Mostly single-story, mid-century modern, three- to four-bedroom homes, about 2,000 square feet each, on relatively large lots.

      Median sales price: $179,000

      Rent: $800-$1,500/month

      Famous former residents include Johnny Carson, Debbie Reynolds, Donald Sutherland and Joe Louis.

    • Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Scotch ‘80s

      This hip, ungated Vegas enclave is enjoying a resurgence; home values spiked after the recession. Friendly neighbors and spacious homes with character and grass have made this the neighborhood of choice for young executives, entrepreneurs and other members of Las Vegas’ creative class.

      The neighborhood gets its name from developer Peter Buol, who owned the 80-acre parcel and went to Scotland to secure investors.

      Schools

      Howard Wasden Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

      Hyde Park Middle School: 5/5 stars

      Ed W. Clark High School: 3/5 stars

      Pricing:

      What you’ll find: Mid-century modern and Tudor-style homes, most with four bedrooms and three to four bathrooms.

      Median sales price: $990,000

      Average rent: $3,000/month

    • Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Paradise Palms neighborhood in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

      Charleston McNeil

      Smaller lots and smaller homes offer great value in the city’s core. Charleston McNeil has a friendly neighborhood feel with regular block parties and a strong neighborhood-watch program. Its proximity to downtown attracts many young first-time homeowners.

      Schools:

      Howard Wasden Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

      Hyde Park Middle School: 5/5 stars

      Ed W. Clark High School: 3/5 stars

      Pricing:

      What you’ll find: Smaller mid-century modern and desert ranches, from 2,500 to 3,000 square feet, with an average of three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

      Median sales price: $330,000

      Average rent: $1,500

      The Charleston McNeil neighborhood was developed between 1947 and 1978, with the bulk of homes built in the 1950s and ’60s.

    Retirement Communities

      • From left, Evelyn Reed, Joanne Waslesky and Jeanene O'Shea of Crafty Critters make dolls for the Fall Arts & Crafts Fair in Sun City Summerlin on Oct. 4.

        From left, Evelyn Reed, Joanne Waslesky and Jeanene O'Shea of Crafty Critters make dolls for the Fall Arts & Crafts Fair in Sun City Summerlin on Oct. 4.

        Sun City Summerlin

        Sun City Summerlin was real estate developer Del Webb’s first foray into retirement living. The subdivision opened in 1990 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the nation’s premiere retirement communities. Its success helped spark other Sun City communities across the valley.

        Because it is an age-restricted subdivision, all homes must have at least one owner or occupant aged 55 or older, and no permanent residents can be younger than 19.

        Sun City Summerlin advertises an active, engaged lifestyle for retirees. The 2,400-acre development, home to more than 14,000 people and about 8,000 homes at the base of the Spring Mountain Range, includes three golf courses, four community centers, three restaurants, five swimming pools and tennis and racquetball courts.

        The area surrounding Sun City Summerlin also has grown significantly since the development debuted, with retail shops, grocery stores, banks, two public libraries, two hospitals, resorts, restaurants and a public bus route in its immediate vicinity.

        Schools:

        Ethel W. Staton Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

        William E. Orr Middle School: 2/5 stars

        John W. Bonner Elementary School: 5/5 stars

        William Lummis Elementary School: 4/5 stars

        Ernest Becker Middle School: 4/5 stars

        Palo Verde High School: 4/5 stars

        Pricing:

        What you'll find: Single-story, two- to three-bedroom tract-style homes from 1,000 to 3,000 square feet.

        Median sales price: $260,000

        Rent: $900-$1,600/month

        Sun City Summerlin is the northernmost community in Summerlin and sits at an altitude of more than 3,000 feet.

      • On the market: Homes are shown for sale in Sun City Anthem.

        On the market: Homes are shown for sale in Sun City Anthem.

        Sun City Anthem

        This tranquil Henderson master-planned community includes 7,144 homes and more than 12,500 senior residents. The development features multiple golf courses and three large recreational centers with sports, fitness, arts and crafts and learning.

        Sun City Anthem has its own television station that produces weekly programming and publishes a monthly magazine and newsletter.

        Schools

        Elise L. Wolff Elementary School: 4/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

        Frank S. Lamping Elementary School: 5/5 stars

        Del E. Webb Middle School: 5/5 stars

        Coronado High School: 4/5 stars

        Pricing:

        What you'll find: Single-story, energy-efficient, two- to three-bedroom homes from 1,000 to 4,000 square feet.

        Median sales price: $387,500

        Average rent: $1,000-$1,800/month

      • The city of North Las Vegas now runs Aliante Golf Club, which sits in the Sun City Aliante master-planned community.

        The city of North Las Vegas now runs Aliante Golf Club, which sits in the Sun City Aliante master-planned community.

        Sun City Aliante

        Designed as an affordable senior living community, Sun City Aliante opened in 2003 and is the newest of Del Webb’s local adult golf communities. It includes about 2,000 energy efficient homes in North Las Vegas. Houses line an expansive golf course and lake, and the development includes dozens of clubhouses, fitness centers and restaurants. The subdivision is near the 20-acre Nature Discovery Park.

        With more than 20,000 residents, Sun City Aliante’s population is larger than Boulder City’s.

        Schools:

        Goynes Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

        Triggs Elementary School: 5/5 stars

        Cram Middle School: 4/5 stars

        Shadow Ridge High School: 3/5 stars

        Pricing:

        What you'll find: Single-story, two-bedroom homes, some with a den, ranging from 1,200 to 2,100 square feet.

        Median sales price: $194,500

        Average rent: $1,000-$1,500

      Environmental escapes

        • Mount Charleston in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

          Mount Charleston in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

          Mount Charleston

          A high-altitude oasis at 7,510 feet above sea level, Mount Charleston offers rental, vacation and year-round housing in an alpine community just 45 minutes from the Strip. Temperatures that are 20 to 30 degrees cooler than Las Vegas make hiking, camping and biking popular year-round activities, while snow draws winter sports enthusiasts from across the country.

          People began moving to the mountain in the 1960s, following in the footsteps of Warren “Doc” Bailey, owner of the Hacienda casino, who bought a lodge in upper Kyle Canyon and began developing a cabin resort community there. Today, the unincorporated town covers almost 30 square miles and houses about 1,350 people, although only about 300 live on the mountain year-round. The tight-knit, friendly community includes an Old Town residential area flanked by an elementary school, public library, grocery store and the popular Mount Charleston Lodge, all protected by the community’s volunteer police force.

          The lowest temperature ever recorded on Mount Charleston was minus-9.6 degrees, with a wind chill of minus-19.5 degrees, on Jan. 14, 2013.

          Schools:

          Earl B. Lundy Elementary School: 2/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

          Indian Springs Middle School: 5/5 stars

          Indian Springs High School: 4/5 stars

          Pricing:

          What you’ll find: Widely varied homes, including rustic 700-square-foot, single-story cabins; geodesic domes; and 3,500-square-foot luxury mansions with floor-to-ceiling windows.

          Median sales price: $350,000

          Rent: $800-$1,400/month

        • A view of the Tuscany Retreat development, foreground, in Boulder City Monday, Sept. 23, 2013.

          A view of the Tuscany Retreat development, foreground, in Boulder City Monday, Sept. 23, 2013.

          Boulder City

          Built in 1931 to house Hoover Dam workers, Boulder City now sprawls across more than 200 square miles, minutes from Lake Mead and the Colorado River. The city allows just 120 new residences to be built each year and often is touted for its small-town feel. Its serene setting and low population density make it popular among nature enthusiasts, families and retirees.

          Boulder City is one of just two cities in Nevada that prohibit gambling. The other is Panaca.

          Schools

          King Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

          Garrett Middle School: 5/5 stars

          Boulder City High School: 4/5 stars

          Pricing:

          What you’ll find: Older custom homes and bungalows, and condos.

          Median sales price: $228,000

          Average rent: $900-$1,300/month/month

        • Mount Charleston in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

          Mount Charleston in Las Vegas, Nev. on Nov. 8, 2014.

          Lone Mountain

          On the northwest edge of Las Vegas, Lone Mountain features mostly custom homes and large lots with narrow streets. Master-planned communities were developed there only recently because of its rural location and rocky terrain. The quiet community offers hiking, expansive valley views and close proximity to the Clark County Shooting Park, although access to traditional neighborhood amenities such as restaurants and shopping requires a significant drive.

          Lone Mountain’s summit rises about 600 feet above area homes, with at least five hiking trails leading to its peak.

          Schools:

          Garehime Elementary: 4/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

          Sheila R. Tarr Elementary School: 3/5 stars

          Eileen Conners Elementary School: 3/5 stars

          Leavitt Middle School: 4/5 stars

          Molasky Junior High School: 3/5 stars

          Centennial High School School: 3/5 stars

          Pricing:

          What you’ll find: Custom three- and four-bedroom homes and ranch houses from about 1,000 to 3,500 square feet.

          Median sales price: $200,000

          Average rent: $900-$2,000/month

        Golf courses

          • Charles Kikumoto plays a round of golf at the Las Vegas Country Club on November 8, 2014.

            Charles Kikumoto plays a round of golf at the Las Vegas Country Club on November 8, 2014.

            Las Vegas Country Club

            Las Vegas Country Club was the city’s first private guard-gated golf course community. The 1.2-square-mile development began in the 1950s as Las Vegas Downs, a thoroughbred racetrack, and underwent several transformations before gaining notoriety in the 1970s as a country club and golf course in the hands of developers Irwin Molasky, Merv Adelson, Moe Dalitz and Allard Roen. The area became a hotspot for celebrities, sports stars and local industry players.

            Today, homes surrounding the private 18-hole course include custom and semicustom houses, townhouses and luxury high-rises. The course, built in 1965 and redesigned in 1981 and 2009, hosts several PGA tournaments each year and remains one of the last courses in town with trees.

            The community’s proximity to the Strip and McCarran International Airport make it a great fit for sports enthusiasts living here part time and locals seeking a classic Las Vegas feel.

            Las Vegas native and Tennis Hall of Famer Andre Agassi cut his teeth playing on Las Vegas Country Club tennis courts.

            Schools:

            John S. Park Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

            Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

            Valley High School: 2/5 stars

            Pricing:

            What you’ll find: Custom homes and townhouses, and condos that range from one bedroom to 3,000 square feet in the Regency Towers high-rise.

            Median sales price: $205,000

            Rent: $850-$3,500/month

          • The Las Vegas Country Club on November 8, 2014.

            The Las Vegas Country Club on November 8, 2014.

            Los Prados

            This guard-gated golf community in northwest Las Vegas is one of the few in Nevada where residents own and manage their own golf course. Los Prados also is more affordable than many luxury golf communities in town.

            The grassy development is home to 1,358 homes surrounding an 18-hole executive course and features both an age-restricted adult community and a family neighborhood. On-site amenities include a clubhouse, pool and restaurant, tennis courts and walking trails.

            Los Prados’ golf course, built in 1987, stretches just under 6,000 yards and is par 70.

            Schools

            Ernest May Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

            Lied Middle School: 3/5 stars

            Shadow Ridge High School: 3/5 stars

            Pricing:

            What you’ll find: Single-story houses and attached townhouses, most two- to three-bedroom, from 1,000 square feet to more than 3,600 square feet.

            Median sales price: $220,000

            Average rent: $1,200-$1,800/month

          • This is a view of the par 3 17th hole at Southern Highlands Golf Club May 22, 2014.

            This is a view of the par 3 17th hole at Southern Highlands Golf Club May 22, 2014.

            Southern Highlands

            Set in the southern foothills of Las Vegas, Southern Highlands is a 2,300-acre master-planned community popular with families and golf enthusiasts. The area offers more than 50 acres of parks, trails, sports fields, lakes and recreational facilities.

            The community also includes shopping, restaurants, a fire station and plans for both public and private schools.

            The northern half of the development, composed of houses and condos, features tree-lined streets with a family-friendly feel. The southern half is devoted to the upscale Southern Highlands Golf Club and Spa and custom and semicustom luxury homes.

            The Southern Highlands Golf Club is one of only four in the world co-designed by golf course architect Robert Trent Jones and his son Robert Trent Jones Jr.

            Schools:

            Evelyn Stuckey Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

            Tarkanian Middle School: 5/5 stars

            Desert Oasis High School: 5/5 stars

            Pricing:

            What you’ll find: A variety of sizes and styles, from single-story Tuscan villas to three-bedroom, 2,000-square-foot townhouses to seven-bedroom, 12,000-square-foot custom estates.

            Median sales price: $873,013

            Highest list price: $10.5 million

            Lowest list price: $182,900

            Rent: $1,100-$3,000/month


          Hidden gems


            • Glen Heather is a small (just one-third of a square mile) lesser-known vintage Vegas community which draws a mix of artists, small business owners and young families on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

              Glen Heather is a small (just one-third of a square mile) lesser-known vintage Vegas community which draws a mix of artists, small business owners and young families on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

              Glen Heather Estates

              Sized at just a third of a square mile, Glen Heather is a lesser-known vintage Vegas community, similar to the nearby Scotch 80s and Charleston McNeil.

              Established in the 1950s and 1960s, the development features desert modern and ranch modern architecture, large grassy lots and old growth evergreens and mulberry trees. It draws a mix of artists, small-business owners and young families.

              Though its proximity to the freeway isn’t for everyone, its central location puts residents in arm’s reach of SLS and the downtown Arts District, the Premium Outlet Mall, World Market Center and the Smith Center for the Performing Arts.

              Unlike many neighboring communities, Glen Heather emerged relatively unscathed from the housing crisis and is poised to gain value as the north Strip continues to develop and the Project Neon transportation plan improves access to the area.

              Although Glen Heather includes houses from many decades, many of its residences were constructed during the heart of the mid-century modern movement, with the first of its homes built in 1955 and 1956.

              Schools:

              Howard Wasden Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

              Hyde Park Middle School: 5/5 stars

              Ed W. Clark High School: 3/5 stars

              Pricing:

              What you’ll find: Three- to four-bedroom, 1,500- to 2,500-square-foot, single-story mid-century modern and ranch-style bungalows.

              Median sales price: $200,000

              Rent: $850-$1,500/month

            • Bill Gilcrease, during a tour of the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary in Las Vegas on Wednesday, April 25, 2012.

              Bill Gilcrease, during a tour of the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary in Las Vegas on Wednesday, April 25, 2012.

              Gilcrease

              One of Las Vegas’ best kept secrets, this northwest enclave is unusually lush for the region, thanks to wells from nearby Gilcrease Orchard that pump water through the neighborhood. The area has mostly horse-zoned properties, with the exception of a few small planned housing developments.

              The neighboring orchard and Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, along with nearby dining and shopping, make Gilcrease an oasis for horse owners and families alike.

              The neighborhood emerged when parcels of Gilcrease Orchard were sold and alfalfa fields were established in the early 1900s.

              Schools

              Joseph Neal Elementary School: 4/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

              Saville Middle School: 4/5 stars

              Shadow Ridge High School: 3/5 stars

              Pricing:

              What you’ll find: Three- to eight-bedroom custom homes and ranches on lots from 1 acre to 20 acres or more.

              Sales price: $1 million-$20 million

              Rent: $1,500-$10,000/month

            • Glen Heather is a small (just one-third of a square mile) lesser-known vintage Vegas community which draws a mix of artists, small business owners and young families on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

              Glen Heather is a small (just one-third of a square mile) lesser-known vintage Vegas community which draws a mix of artists, small business owners and young families on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

              Iron Mountain Ranch

              This guard-gated, master planned community borders federal land and is at the center of growth in the northern part of the valley. The area offers a quiet, rural feel and includes four wooded parks with ponds and walking paths. Its more remote location makes for a lower price point appealing to first-time homeowners.

              About 48 percent of Iron Mountain Ranch residents are married with children in this family-friendly neighborhood.

              Schools:

              Kitty McDonough Ward Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

              Saville Middle School: 4/5 stars

              Shadow Ridge High School: 3/5 stars

              Pricing:

              What you’ll find: Ranch and custom homes from 2,507 to 10,061 square feet on lots up to an acre.

              Median sales price: $202,000

              Rent: $1,000-$1,400/month

            High-rises

              • Formerly known as Streamline Towers, the 275-unit Ogden sits in the heart of downtowns quickly gentrifying Fremont East district on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                Formerly known as Streamline Towers, the 275-unit Ogden sits in the heart of downtowns quickly gentrifying Fremont East district on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                The Ogden

                The 275-unit Ogden sits in the heart of downtown’s gentrified Fremont East district. Like many of the neighborhood’s luxury high-rises, the Ogden struggled during the recession but started selling units again this fall.

                The condo units tout an elegant urban vibe with open floor plans, high ceilings and spacious terraces. Many young artists, entrepreneurs and techies leading downtown’s transformation, including Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh, call the Ogden home.

                The Ogden opened in spring 2008 as Streamline Tower.

                Schools:

                Howard E. Hollingsworth Elementary School: 2/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

                John C. Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

                Rancho High School: 3/5 stars

                Pricing:

                What you'll find: One- to three-bedroom condos that range from 847 to more than 2,000 square feet. Amenities include a rooftop pool, hot tub and sun terrace, 24/7 security, a gym, concierge service, an on-site pet park and ground floor dining.

                Median sales price: $400,000

                Rent: $1,500-$2,500/month

              • The Panorama Towers.

                The Panorama Towers.

                Panorama Towers

                In the heart of the Strip, Panorama’s two blue glass towers offer privacy and luxury to those who want to keep their fingers on the pulse of Las Vegas. The 30-story building includes a retail pavillion with coffeehouse and laundry service and views of Red Rock Canyon and the Strip. Grocery stores and other neighborhood amenities require traveling off-Strip.

                Panorama Towers was co-developed by Andrew Sasson, owner and founder of Las Vegas nightlife powerhouse The Light Group.

                Schools

                Thiriot Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                Sawyer Middle School: 3/5 stars

                Clark High School: 3/5 stars

                Pricing:

                What you'll find: Floor plans range from 750-square-foot, one-bedroom condos to 4,000-square-foot, two-story lofts and townhouses.

                Average sales price: $603,669

                Highest list price: $2,888,888

                Lowest list price: $219,950

                Rent: $1,450-$3,500/month

              • Formerly known as Streamline Towers, the 275-unit Ogden sits in the heart of downtowns quickly gentrifying Fremont East district on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                Formerly known as Streamline Towers, the 275-unit Ogden sits in the heart of downtowns quickly gentrifying Fremont East district on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                Turnberry Towers

                Located just east of the Strip, Turnberry Towers offers high-end condominiums and an urban lifestyle with some traditional neighborhood features, including a garden landscape. The building caters both to full-time and seasonal residents.

                Amenities include a pools, tennis courts and on-site dog park.

                Turnberry Towers has carved a niche for itself by marketing its units to Canadians for seasonal housing.

                Schools:

                Park Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

                Valley High School: 2/5 stars

                Pricing:

                What you'll find: Condos range from one-bedroom, 915-square-foot units to three-bedroom, 1,970-square-foot units.

                Average sales price: $491,345

                Rent: $1,500-$3,500/month

              Downtown

                • Though not technically part of downtown Las Vegas, Huntridge has enjoyed a revitalization movement in recent years that has become synonymous with the growth and development of downtown on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                  Though not technically part of downtown Las Vegas, Huntridge has enjoyed a revitalization movement in recent years that has become synonymous with the growth and development of downtown on Sunday, November 8, 2014. L.E. Baskow.

                  Huntridge

                  Though not technically part of downtown Las Vegas, Huntridge has enjoyed a revitalization in tandem with the growth and development of downtown.

                  The historic 2.5-square-mile neighborhood is home to some of Las Vegas’ first tract housing, built in 1942 for airmen stationed at what was then Army Air Field, now Nellis Air Force Base. Its narrow streets and central Circle Park were designed for walking and biking. But few of the original two-bedroom bungalows remain, as most were converted and expanded for a custom look.

                  The neighborhood fell into disrepair with run-down homes and the closure of Circle Park 2006 after a fatal stabbing, but the area has been on the upswing thanks to efforts by neighborhood associations and the Las Vegas City Council. The park reopened, and many homes have been renovated as rentals or for owner occupancy.

                  Referred to by some as the “Original Las Vegas,” Huntridge was the neighborhood of choice for Elvis Presley and Bob Stupak.

                  Schools:

                  Crestwood Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

                  Park Elementary School: 5/5 stars

                  Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

                  K.O. Knudson Middle School: 4/5 stars

                  Valley High School: 2/5 stars

                  Pricing:

                  What you'll find: Small, single-story, two- to four-bedroom, 1,500- to 2,000-square foot modified bungalows and mid-century modern homes with crawl spaces and hardwood floors.

                  Median sales price: $116,000

                  Rent: $900-$1,500/month

                • Bill Gilcrease, during a tour of the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary in Las Vegas on Wednesday, April 25, 2012.

                  Bill Gilcrease, during a tour of the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary in Las Vegas on Wednesday, April 25, 2012.

                  John S. Park Historic District

                  On the edge of downtown, John S. Park includes two subdivisions built between the 1930s and 1950s. Its proximity to the courthouse and downtown nightlife makes it a popular choice among lawyers and artists.

                  The neighborhood is named for pioneer John S. Park, who arrived in 1905 and helped found what eventually became the Southern Nevada Power company.

                  Schools

                  Park Elementary School: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                  Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

                  Valley High School: 2/5 stars

                  Pricing:

                  What you'll find: Single-story, one- or two-bedroom, ranch and minimal traditional style homes averaging about 1,000 square feet.

                  Sales price: $133,000

                  Rent: $800-$1,300/month

                • A view of the Soho Lofts condo building in downtown Las Vegas Thursday, December 16, 2010.

                  A view of the Soho Lofts condo building in downtown Las Vegas Thursday, December 16, 2010.

                  Soho Lofts

                  This 17-story building is in the hub of downtown’s Arts District, with shops and restaurants on the ground floor and galleries and music venues in walking distance. It is a popular choice among young entrepreneurs, artists and other creative types. Amenities include a 24-hour doorman, gym and rooftop pool.

                  Units feature high ceilings with exposed piping and glass enclosed terraces, modeled after the urban lofts in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood. The building offers a variety of floor plans, with units ranging from single bedroom, 1336 sq. ft. spaces to larger two to three bedroom lofts at 1855 sq. ft.

                  The high-rise is 225 feet tall and includes 120 units.

                  Schools:

                  Howard Hollingsworth Elementary School: 2/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                  Fremont Middle School: 3/5 stars

                  Rancho High School: 3/5 stars

                  Pricing:

                  Average sales price: $336,225

                  Rent: $1,500-$3,000/month

                Luxury estates

                  • MacDonald Highlands

                    MacDonald Highlands

                    Spanish Trails

                    Developed by Joe and Mary Blasco in the mid-1980s, Spanish Trail helped set the precedent for high-end private, guard-gated golf communities in Las Vegas and continues to be recognized as one of Clark County’s premiere neighborhoods. It is named for the route pioneers used to travel through the valley on their way to California’s gold rush.

                    The subdivision sprawls across 640 acres and includes 1,252 homes in 11 neighborhoods with two guard-gated entrances. It is built around a 27-hole, 15-lake golf course and country club. The community features three custom-home neighborhoods, four semicustom developments and four townhome collections, each with a private pool and clubhouse. The community is surrounded by six parks and four hospitals.

                    Spanish Trails, with a median age of 35 and average household net worth of $509,617, touts itself as an upscale community for families and high-powered people.

                    One of Spanish Trail’s most lavish properties is a 140,000-square-foot compound of multiple houses and pools built for the Sultan of Brunei. The 15-acre lot overlooks the golf course.

                    Schools:

                    Rogers Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

                    Sawyer Middle School: 3/5 stars

                    Durango High School: 3/5 stars

                    Pricing:

                    What you’ll find: Condos starting at 1,157 square feet to mansions spanning 16,649 square feet.

                    Average sales price: $1,380,733

                    Average rent: $2,125/month

                  • One Queensridge Place

                    One Queensridge Place offers residents high-rise living away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. The development is adjacent to Tivoli Village and a few minutes from Badlands Golf Course and Red Rock Canyon. Amenities include several indoor and outdoor pools, spas and fitness centers, a wine cellar with private lockers for residents, a bar and lounge, and 24-hour security patrol and surveillance.

                    The development includes private guest casitas that residents can reserve for visitors.

                    Schools

                    Bonner Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                    Sig Rogich Middle School: 5/5 stars

                    Palo Verde High School: 4/5 stars

                    Pricing:

                    What you’ll find: Condos that range in size from two-bedroom, 2,638-square-foot units to the 15,000-square-foot Crown Penthouse equipped with a private 15-car garage.

                    Average sales price: $1,669,353

                    Rent: $4,000-$5,000/month

                  • MacDonald Highlands

                    Set in the foothills of the McCullough Mountains, this private guard-gated community is considered one of the most exclusive in the valley, planned as a low-density luxury development with 10 distinct neighborhoods, large lots and dazzling views.

                    The community includes the upscale DragonRidge Golf Course and Country Club, home to a 27,000-square-foot clubhouse, steakhouse, ballroom, golf pro shop, and pool.

                    The 18-hole DragonRidge golf course was home to the prestigious Jack Nicklaus Golf Academy.

                    Schools:

                    Lamping Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                    Glen C. Taylor Elementary School: 5/5 stars

                    Twitchell Elementary School: 5/5 stars

                    Vanderburg Elementary School: 5/5 stars

                    Del Webb Middle School: 5/5 stars

                    Bob Miller Middle School: 5/5 stars

                    Coronado High School: 4/5 stars

                    Foothill High School: 4/5 stars

                    Pricing:

                    What you’ll find: Luxury condominiums and custom and semicustom homes that range from one story, two bedroom and 3,000 square feet to three or four stories, seven bedrooms and more than 13,000 square feet.

                    Median sales price: $890,000

                    Rent: $1,300-$3,000/month

                  Horse properties

                    • Exterior of Wayne Newton's former home, once known as Casa de Shenandoah, during an open house on Monday, September 22, 2014.

                      Exterior of Wayne Newton's former home, once known as Casa de Shenandoah, during an open house on Monday, September 22, 2014.

                      Sierra Vista Ranchos

                      Horses remain a large part of the Las Vegas landscape, with horse shows staged regularly and big annual events such as the National Finals Rodeo. Horse-zoned properties with large acreage and nearby riding facilities can be found scattered across the valley.

                      Sierra Vista Ranchos is Las Vegas’ only guard-gated equestrian development and one of the oldest guard-gated communities in the valley. The area includes 107 custom ranch homes on sprawling lots with old-growth trees. Some of the homes date to the ’60s, while others were built in the mid-2000s. The development has a common area with an arena and stables, and a riding trail around its perimeter.

                      With a more central location than most local equestrian neighborhoods, Sierra Vista Ranchos offers a suburban feel while still being just three miles from the Strip and McCarran International Airport. Many residents don’t own horses but choose to live in the neighborhood for its ambiance and location.

                      Sierra Vista Ranchos has only 70 homes, including the former Casa de Shenandoah, which once housed Wayne Newton’s famed Arabian horses.

                      Zoning isn’t the only important factor when buying a horse property. Buyers also should check for a quality barn, sensible layout and strong corral fencing.

                      Schools:

                      David M. Cox Elementary School: 4/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework

                      Greenspun Junior High School: 5/5 stars

                      Del Sol High School: 2/5 stars

                      Pricing:

                      What you'll find: Custom homes ranging from 2,507 to 10,061 square feet on lots up to one acre.

                      Median sales price: $500,000-$3 million

                      Average rent: $2,500-$6,000/month

                    • Horse Properties

                      Horse Properties

                      Henderson Foothills

                      This rural section of southeast Henderson near Racetrack Road offers a number of ranch-style estates for a relatively low price.

                      Schools

                      CT Sewell Elementary School: 5/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                      Brown Junior High School: 5/5 stars

                      Basic High School: 3/5 stars

                      Pricing:

                      What you’ll find: Large multistory custom homes and ranch houses, with an average of four or five bedrooms and 4,000 square feet.

                      Median sales price: $699,500

                      Rent: $1,500-$2,500/month

                    • Horse Properties

                      Horse Properties

                      Floyd Lamb Park

                      Originally a ranch popular among vacationing celebrities, Floyd Lamb Park was bought by the city of Las Vegas in the 1960s and has become one of the valley’s go-to spots for local riders. The 680-acre park features rolling hills, old-growth trees, roaming ducks and peacocks, natural spring ponds stocked with fish, soft-soil riding trails and camping.

                      Most of the homes west and southeast of the park are zoned for horses. The pricier southeast neighborhood features 2- to 5-acre lots with large ranch houses, while the more modest west neighborhood includes lots from half an acre to 2 acres.

                      Schools:

                      Kitty McDonough Ward: 3/5 stars, according to the Nevada School Performance Framework.

                      O’Roarke Elementary School: 5/5 stars

                      Ralph Cadwallader Middle: 4/5 stars

                      Saville Middle School: 4/5 stars

                      Arbor View High School: 4/5 stars

                      Shadow Ridge High School: 3/5 stars

                      Pricing:

                      What you’ll find: Three- to six-bedroom, single-story ranch houses.

                      Median sales price: $500,000-$1 million

                      Rent: $2,500-$10,000/month

                    Follow Andrea Domanick on Twitter at @AndreaDomanick and fan her on Facebook at Facebook.com/AndreaDomanick.

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