For years, Los Angeles has been synonymous with luxury real estate, from the iconic mansions of Beverly Hills to the oceanfront estates of Malibu. But a new trend is emerging—one that’s reshaping the high-end housing market in the West. More and more LA buyers are setting their sights on Las Vegas, drawn by its evolving luxury landscape, financial benefits, and an unparalleled lifestyle.
I recently sat down with Kofi Nartey, Executive Director of REAL Broker’s Luxury Division and head of GLOBL RED (GLOBL Real Estate Development), to discuss this growing trend. As a team with deep expertise in both the Los Angeles and Las Vegas luxury markets, we’ve seen firsthand how this shift is transforming real estate in both cities.
Las Vegas: More Than Just an Entertainment Capital
For a long time, Las Vegas was seen primarily as a city of entertainment, gaming, and tourism. But over the past decade, the city has undergone a remarkable luxury evolution—a shift that has only accelerated in recent years. According to Kofi, the change has been driven by several key factors:
A growing international presence – Las Vegas is becoming a truly global city, attracting high-net-worth individuals from all over.
Major investments in sports and entertainment – The arrival of teams like the Raiders and Golden Knights, along with high-profile events like Formula 1 and the Super Bowl, have solidified Vegas as a world-class city.
A maturing luxury real estate market – The definition of luxury in Vegas has changed. It’s no longer just about square footage—it’s about high-end finishes, world-class architecture, and curated lifestyle communities.
Why LA Buyers Are Making the Move
So, why are Los Angeles luxury buyers looking to Las Vegas? The answer lies in a combination of lifestyle, financial incentives, and the unique synergy between the two cities.
Luxury Without the LA Price Tag
Even though Las Vegas home prices have risen significantly, they still pale in comparison to LA. Many buyers find they can purchase more home for their money while still enjoying a high-end lifestyle. In many luxury communities, homes are hitting the $1,000 per square foot mark—a price that’s still well below what’s expected in LA’s high-end neighborhoods.
The Co-Primary Home Trend
Rather than completely relocating, many LA buyers are purchasing co-primary homes in Las Vegas. These aren’t just vacation homes—they’re fully functional residences where owners split their time between both cities. The ability to work remotely, combined with easy access between LA and Vegas, makes this arrangement increasingly appealing.
Tax & Financial Advantages
Nevada’s lack of state income tax is a game-changer for high-income earners. Some buyers are even establishing Nevada residency to take advantage of these tax savings while maintaining professional and social ties to LA.
4. A Growing Luxury Community
Affluent buyers aren’t just moving to Las Vegas in isolation—they’re bringing their friends, networks, and entire social circles. Kofi noted that in communities like The Ridges, Summerlin, and MacDonald Highlands, it’s common to see buyers quietly tapping their LA friends on the shoulder and saying, “Hey, you need to look at Vegas.” This organic movement is creating a true luxury ecosystem.
The GLOBL RED Advantage: A Tailored Experience for LA Buyers
At GLOBL RED, we’ve developed a tailored approach to help LA buyers navigate this transition seamlessly. Whether it’s finding the perfect luxury home, understanding market trends, or structuring a purchase that makes the most financial sense, our expertise in both markets sets us apart.
As Kofi mentioned in our discussion, Vegas is not just growing—it’s evolving. The level of sophistication in luxury real estate is higher than ever, and buyers need the right representation to make informed decisions.
Thinking About Your Next Move?
Whether you’re selling in Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, or beyond, or considering a luxury home in Las Vegas, masterful representation makes all the difference. Let’s connect.
