Zillow Names Pahrump, Nevada as Top Retirement Destination in 2024
Pahrump, Nevada, located 50 miles west of Las Vegas, has emerged as the most popular retirement destination in 2024, according to Zillow's latest report. The desert town surpassed last year's top retirement spot, Pinehurst, North Carolina.
Busy street in Pahrump, Nevada
Key attractions making Pahrump attractive to retirees:
- Warm climate with less than 30 rainy days annually
- Mild winters and cool desert nights
- One-third of the population is 65 and older
- Multiple casinos and gaming establishments
- Sanders Family Winery
- Death Valley tours
- Pahrump Valley Museum
- Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club
- Abundant outdoor recreation opportunities
The town, home to approximately 45,000 residents as of the 2020 Census, has transformed significantly since its early days. Before the 1960s, Pahrump had no telephone service or paved roads. The town's first high school opened in 1974, and infrastructure development has continued steadily since then.
Historical significance includes the famous Binion Hoard incident, where Ted Binion, son of Horseshoe casino founder Benny Binion, buried rare silver coins and casino chips in a 12-foot deep vault. This event gained national attention following Binion's controversial death in 1998 and the subsequent legal proceedings involving Richard Tabish and Sandy Murphy.
The town offers a blend of desert living and entertainment options, including legal gaming establishments. Pahrump's location near the Nevada-California border provides easy access to larger cities while maintaining a quieter, more affordable lifestyle suitable for retirees.
