Explore the elevation of Las Vegas—situated over 2,000 feet above sea level in the Mojave Desert, surrounded by towering mountains and home to one of the world’s most iconic entertainment cities built on high desert terrain.

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Where is Las Vegas?

  • Location: Las Vegas is located in the heart of Nevada, deep within the Mojave Desert.

City Profile

  • Nicknames: Known as Sin City, The Entertainment Capital of the World, and America's Playground.
  • Fame: Renowned for luxury hotels, world-class casinos, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Population: Around 650,000 residents in the city, with over 2 million in the greater metro area.
  • Size rank: Largest city in Nevada and the county seat of Clark County.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Las Vegas is situated at 2,001 feet (610 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Nevada’s average elevation is 5,500 feet (1,520 m), so Las Vegas sits significantly lower.
  • Tallest building: The Stratosphere Tower is the tallest structure at 1,149 feet (350 m).
  • City founding: Settled in 1905 and incorporated in 1911.
  • Name origin: Named “Las Vegas” by Antonio Armijo, meaning “the meadows.”
  • Growth story: Legalization of gambling in 1931 spurred development into a major global destination.
  • Modern evolution: Today, the Las Vegas Strip is lined with spectacular resorts, shows, and attractions that draw millions each year.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Local contrast: Las Vegas is low for Nevada but surrounded by peaks over 10,000 feet (3,048 m).
  • Highest nearby point: Mount Charleston – 11,916 feet (3,632 m).
  • Other nearby mountains: Several climbable peaks surround the Las Vegas Valley.
  • State city comparison: Las Vegas is lower than Reno – 4,505 feet (1,373 m), but higher than Henderson – 1,867 feet (538 m).
  • Highest point in Nevada: Boundary Peak – 13,147 feet (4,007 m).
  • Lowest point in Nevada: Part of the Colorado River – 481 feet (147 m) above sea level.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Las Vegas has a subtropical hot desert climate.
  • Rainfall: Receives only a few inches of precipitation annually—making it one of the driest major cities in the U.S.
  • Humidity: Typically low, contributing to dry and hot conditions.
  • Summer temperatures: May through September often sees highs well over 100°F (38°C).
  • Entertainment: World-famous for adult entertainment, resort casinos, and luxury attractions like Caesars Palace, The Bellagio, The Mirage, and Luxor.
  • Live shows: Features concerts, comedians, magicians, acrobats, and spectacular performances across the Strip.

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