Henderson NV for Retirees: Why It's Nevada's Best Retirement City (2026)

by Ryan Rose

Henderson has emerged as Nevada's premier retirement destination, offering retirees a rare combination of America's second-safest large city, no state income tax on any income including retirement distributions, world-class healthcare facilities, and multiple 55+ communities with resort-style amenities. For California and other high-tax state retirees, the financial benefits are substantial—keeping 10-13% more of retirement income while accessing quality healthcare, entertainment, and outdoor recreation year-round. With 300-plus sunny days annually, proximity to Las Vegas entertainment, and communities specifically designed for active adult living, Henderson delivers retirement lifestyle that few cities can match. This guide covers everything retirees need to know about retiring in Henderson.

Why Retirees Choose Henderson

Financial Advantages

Nevada's tax structure benefits retirees significantly. There is no state income tax on any income including Social Security, pensions, IRA distributions, and 401(k) withdrawals. Property taxes rank ninth lowest nationally at 0.59% effective rate. No estate or inheritance tax exists in Nevada. Sales tax at 8.375% is moderate compared to services-heavy state taxes.

For a retiree household with $100,000 in retirement income from California, moving to Henderson saves $6,000-$9,000 annually in state income tax alone. These savings compound over retirement years, potentially adding $100,000-plus to lifetime wealth.

Safety Record

Henderson's number two ranking among America's safest large cities provides peace of mind for retirees. Violent crime rates run 75% below Las Vegas and 32% below Nevada averages. Property crime rates are similarly favorable. Master-planned communities with controlled access add security layers. Active HOAs maintain property standards and community oversight.

Healthcare Access

Henderson provides excellent healthcare infrastructure. Major facilities include Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospital with three Henderson locations, Henderson Hospital opened 2016 with modern facilities, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health specializing in neurological care, and numerous specialty practices serving senior populations.

Medicare Advantage plans are readily available from major insurers. The healthcare infrastructure has grown specifically to serve Henderson's significant retiree population.

Climate Benefits

Henderson's Sonoran Desert climate suits many retirees. Winter temperatures range from 45-65°F with rare freezing, making outdoor activity possible year-round. Low humidity reduces joint discomfort for arthritis sufferers. Abundant sunshine supports vitamin D levels and mental health. No snow or ice eliminates weather-related fall risks.

Summer heat (June through August) requires adaptation. However, air conditioning is universal, and most retirees schedule outdoor activities for morning or evening hours during peak heat.

Henderson 55+ Communities

Sun City Anthem

Sun City Anthem is Henderson's largest and most established 55+ community with 7,500 homes across multiple neighborhoods. The Del Webb development offers two championship golf courses, three recreation centers with fitness, pools, and programming, over 100 clubs and organized activities, and homes from $350,000 to $800,000.

The established community provides ready-made social networks and proven governance. Residents describe active, engaged community culture with welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

Sun City MacDonald Ranch

Sun City MacDonald Ranch is Henderson's most upscale 55+ community within the prestigious MacDonald Ranch area. Features include a private golf course, two recreation centers, smaller more intimate community (approximately 2,500 homes), and homes from $400,000 to $800,000.

The location near DragonRidge provides access to ultra-luxury amenities. The community attracts affluent retirees seeking privacy and exclusivity.

Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas

This newer 55+ community offers waterfront retirement living with Lake Las Vegas resort access, modern construction with energy efficiency, growing amenities as community develops, and homes from $400,000 to $700,000.

The location provides resort atmosphere but is more isolated than established Henderson communities.

Heritage at Cadence

Heritage at Cadence brings 55+ living to Henderson's growing Cadence community. Features include new construction with modern floor plans, access to Cadence Central Park and trails, and homes from $350,000 to $550,000.

The community suits active adults wanting new construction at accessible prices.

Solera at Anthem

This smaller 55+ community within broader Anthem offers lower HOA fees than Sun City Anthem with access to some Anthem amenities. Homes range from $350,000 to $500,000, suiting budget-conscious active adults wanting Anthem location.

Retirement Lifestyle in Henderson

Entertainment Access

Henderson's proximity to Las Vegas provides unmatched entertainment options. The Strip offers world-class shows, dining, and nightlife 20-30 minutes away. Henderson has its own growing dining and retail scene at Green Valley Ranch Casino and The District. Lake Mead, Red Rock Canyon, and Mount Charleston provide outdoor recreation. The Las Vegas arts scene includes Smith Center performances and museum access.

Outdoor Recreation

Despite desert location, Henderson offers extensive outdoor opportunities. The city maintains 66 parks with 300-plus miles of trails. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area borders Henderson with hiking access. Golf is available at seven-plus courses with year-round play. Lake Mead is 30 minutes away for boating and fishing. Mount Charleston offers cool-weather escape and winter skiing.

Social Engagement

Henderson's 55+ communities provide built-in social structures. Over 100 clubs and activities exist across Sun City communities alone. Volunteer opportunities are available through Henderson nonprofits. Lifelong learning happens through UNLV continuing education and community classes. Religious communities of all denominations serve Henderson.

Cost of Living for Retirees

Henderson's cost of living runs 10.6% above national average, but the calculation differs for retirees.

Housing is the primary above-average cost. However, California, New York, and other high-tax state retirees find Henderson dramatically more affordable. A $500,000 Henderson home might cost $1.2 million in Orange County or $1.5 million in the Bay Area.

Healthcare costs run slightly below national average. Utility costs stay below average since minimal heating is required. Food and entertainment costs approximate national averages.

The elimination of state income tax often more than offsets any cost-of-living premium. Run the numbers for your specific situation.

Establishing Nevada Residency

To capture tax benefits, establish Nevada residency properly within 30 days of moving. Obtain Nevada driver's license. Register vehicles in Nevada. Update voter registration. Update bank accounts and financial institutions with Nevada address. Spend more than 183 days annually in Nevada. Document presence with utility bills, medical records, and club memberships. Consult with a tax professional about your specific situation.

Healthcare Considerations

Before moving, verify healthcare coverage will transfer. Medicare covers you anywhere in the US. Medicare Advantage plans are location-specific, so research Henderson options. Medigap policies transfer across states. Specialist relationships may require rebuilding since find new providers before moving if possible.

Henderson's healthcare infrastructure is robust, but retirees with complex medical needs should research specific specialty availability.

The Bottom Line

Henderson delivers an exceptional retirement package—safety, tax advantages, healthcare, climate, and lifestyle in one location. The 55+ communities provide turnkey active adult living with established social networks. The broader Henderson community offers amenities, shopping, and entertainment that more isolated retirement communities lack. For retirees from high-tax states especially, the financial and lifestyle benefits create a compelling case.

I specialize in helping retirees find the right Henderson community. Whether you're considering Sun City Anthem's established lifestyle or newer options like Heritage at Cadence, reach out for a personalized consultation and community tours.

Planning your retirement move to Henderson? Call or text Ryan Rose at 702-747-5921 for personalized guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retiring in Henderson, Nevada

Q1: Does Nevada tax Social Security benefits or retirement income?

No. Nevada has no state income tax, which means Social Security benefits, pensions, IRA distributions, and 401(k) withdrawals are completely tax-free at the state level. This can save retirees from high-tax states like California $6,000-$9,000 annually on $100,000 of retirement income.

Q2: How safe is Henderson for retirees?

Henderson ranks as America's second-safest large city. Violent crime rates are 75% below Las Vegas and 32% below Nevada state averages. Property crime is similarly low. Master-planned 55+ communities offer additional security with controlled access and active HOAs that maintain property standards and community oversight.

Q3: What are the best 55+ communities in Henderson?

Henderson's top 55+ communities include Sun City Anthem (largest with 7,500 homes and extensive amenities), Sun City MacDonald Ranch (most upscale with private golf), Del Webb at Lake Las Vegas (waterfront living), Heritage at Cadence (newest construction with modern floor plans), and Solera at Anthem (lower HOA fees). Homes range from $350,000 to $800,000 depending on community and features.

Q4: What healthcare facilities are available in Henderson?

Henderson offers excellent healthcare with Dignity Health St. Rose Dominican Hospital (three Henderson locations), Henderson Hospital (modern facility opened in 2016), Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health specializing in neurological care, and numerous specialty practices serving senior populations. Medicare Advantage plans are readily available from major insurers.

Q5: How hot does Henderson get in summer?

Summer temperatures (June-August) can be intense in the desert climate, but most retirees adapt by scheduling outdoor activities for morning or evening hours. Air conditioning is universal in all homes and buildings. The benefit is 300+ sunny days annually with mild winters (45-65°F), no snow or ice, and low humidity that reduces joint discomfort for arthritis sufferers.

Q6: How much does it cost to live in Henderson as a retiree?

Henderson's cost of living runs 10.6% above the national average, primarily due to housing. However, for retirees from high-tax states, Henderson is dramatically more affordable. A $500,000 Henderson home might cost $1.2 million in Orange County or $1.5 million in the Bay Area. The elimination of state income tax often more than offsets any cost-of-living premium, and healthcare costs run slightly below the national average.

Q7: What do I need to do to establish Nevada residency for tax purposes?

Within 30 days of moving, obtain a Nevada driver's license, register vehicles in Nevada, update voter registration, and update bank accounts with your Nevada address. Spend more than 183 days annually in Nevada and document your presence with utility bills, medical records, and club memberships. Consult with a tax professional about your specific situation to ensure proper residency establishment.

Q8: What entertainment and activities are available in Henderson for retirees?

Henderson offers exceptional entertainment access with the Las Vegas Strip 20-30 minutes away for world-class shows, dining, and nightlife. Locally, Henderson has Green Valley Ranch Casino, The District retail area, 66 parks with 300+ miles of trails, seven golf courses, Lake Mead (30 minutes away), Red Rock Canyon, Mount Charleston, and over 100 clubs and activities within 55+ communities alone.

Q9: Will my Medicare coverage work in Henderson?

Medicare covers you anywhere in the US, so standard Medicare transfers seamlessly. However, Medicare Advantage plans are location-specific, so you'll need to research Henderson options before moving. Medigap policies transfer across states. If you have complex medical needs, research specific specialty availability in Henderson before relocating.

Q10: What are Henderson's property taxes like for retirees?

Nevada's property taxes rank ninth lowest nationally at a 0.59% effective rate. Additionally, Nevada has no estate or inheritance tax. While sales tax is 8.375%, the absence of state income tax on all retirement income typically results in significant overall tax savings compared to high-tax states.

Q11: Can I stay active and social in Henderson 55+ communities?

Absolutely. Henderson's 55+ communities provide built-in social structures with over 100 clubs and activities across Sun City communities alone. Recreation centers offer fitness facilities, pools, and organized programming. There are volunteer opportunities through Henderson nonprofits, lifelong learning through UNLV continuing education, community classes, and religious communities of all denominations.

Q12: How far is Henderson from Las Vegas attractions?

Henderson is 20-30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, providing easy access to world-class entertainment, dining, shows, and casinos. The Smith Center for performing arts and various museums are also readily accessible. This proximity allows retirees to enjoy big-city amenities while living in Henderson's safer, more community-oriented environment.