A retired Air Force Chief's guide to choosing the right neighborhood, commute, and home for your next PCS.
Orders to Nellis Air Force Base? Welcome to Las Vegas! I remember the first time I received my orders to Nellis back in 2007. I remember thinking, "Wait, I am going to be living in Las Vegas?". I figured it was just, you know...the Strip.
In fact, there are many great communities around Las Vegas!
One of the first questions military families ask is: Where should we live when stationed at Nellis AFB?
The answer depends on your budget, commute, family priorities, and whether you're planning to rent or buy.
I'm AJ Kehl, a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant with 22 years of military service and a Las Vegas Realtor. I've experienced PCS moves firsthand, and I understand how important it is to make the right housing decision before arriving at your next duty station.
Here are five areas worth exploring.
1. Aliante and North Las Vegas: Convenient for Nellis
If minimizing your commute is a priority, start with Aliante and northern North Las Vegas. Enclaves like Club Aliante and Valley Vista make this area perfect for a short commute, near essential amenities.
Aliante offers established neighborhoods, parks, shopping, and a variety of single-family homes. Other North Las Vegas communities provide options across different budgets and home styles.
Consider this area if: You want to prioritize access to Nellis while exploring suburban housing options.
2. Centennial Hills: Northwest Las Vegas Convenience
Centennial Hills offers a combination of established neighborhoods, newer developments, shopping, restaurants, and access to US-95 and the 215 Beltway. Think of the 215 as a big band around the entire Las Vegas valley, where the 95 cuts right through it.
In short, you have even more access to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment, with only a slightly longer commute than Aliante.
It's worth exploring if you want northwest Las Vegas amenities without moving as far west as Summerlin.
Consider this area if: You want a balance between commute, housing options, and everyday conveniences.
3. Skye Canyon and Providence: Newer Communities
Skye Canyon and Providence are popular areas to explore in northwest Las Vegas. Many families love it for the Master-Planned feel.
You'll find newer construction, modern floor plans, parks, and community amenities, although offerings vary by neighborhood and HOA. Plus, the biggest grocery store in the area is in Skye Canyon, and yes, it has a bar inside of it!
These locations can also be worth considering for personnel assigned to Creech AFB because of their access to the US-95 corridor. The US-95 is a straight shot right to the Creech AFB front gate.
Consider this area if: You prefer newer homes and master-planned community amenities.
4. Summerlin: Lifestyle and Outdoor Recreation
Summerlin is known for its extensive parks, trails, shopping, dining, and proximity to Red Rock Canyon.
Housing ranges from established neighborhoods to newer developments, with a broad selection of home styles and price points.
The trade-off for someone assigned to Nellis is generally a longer commute. You get more nature and established neighborhoods, but the commute is double Aliante's.
Consider this area if: Outdoor recreation, community amenities, and west-side living outweigh the convenience of being closer to base.
5. Henderson: Another Option Worth Exploring
Henderson offers established neighborhoods, master-planned communities, parks, and access to shopping and recreation throughout the southeast Las Vegas Valley.
Did You Know? Henderson is actually its own city. It is still a part of Clark County, but there's a noticeable difference between Las Vegas and Henderson when it comes to public services and parks.
Communities such as Green Valley, Cadence, Inspirada, and Anthem provide different housing and lifestyle options.
However, commuting to Nellis from Henderson can be substantial, depending on your exact location and work schedule.
Consider this area if: You prefer Henderson's housing and amenities and are comfortable evaluating a longer commute.
What If You're Assigned to Creech AFB?
This changes the equation.
Creech AFB is located near Indian Springs, northwest of Las Vegas. For many personnel assigned there, neighborhoods along the US-95 corridor deserve particular attention.
Centennial Hills, Skye Canyon, and Providence may offer more practical commuting routes than communities on the opposite side of the valley.
Before choosing a home, confirm your assigned installation, expected work schedule, and actual commute. I am here to help!
Should You Rent or Buy During Your Nellis PCS?
Before purchasing, ask yourself three questions:
How long do I expect to stay? A shorter assignment can increase the financial risk of buying and selling. Real Estate will always 'make you right' in the long run, but the market can fluctuate in the short term.
What is my true monthly housing budget? Consider your BAH alongside mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities, and maintenance. Homeownership is an amazing thing; just make sure you have full clarity on the numbers.
What happens when I PCS again? You may decide to sell, retain the home as a rental, or pursue another housing option. The team at Frontline exists to help answer these questions, provide clarity, and assist with the transition.
Eligible buyers may be able to use VA loan benefits to purchase with no down payment, subject to lender approval and program requirements.
Rent Or Buy? Check out this article on the subject.
Frequently Asked Questions
What neighborhoods are near Nellis AFB?
Aliante and northern North Las Vegas are useful starting points. Centennial Hills, Skye Canyon, Summerlin, and Henderson are additional options depending on your priorities.
Can I buy a Las Vegas home before arriving for my PCS?
Yes. With the right preparation, buyers can explore homes remotely, conduct video tours, and coordinate much of the purchase process before arriving. Loan and closing requirements still apply.
Is Summerlin too far from Nellis AFB?
Not necessarily. It depends on your tolerance for commuting and what you value in a neighborhood. Test the route during your expected commute hours before deciding.
Should I use a VA loan when buying near Nellis?
A VA loan can be an excellent financing option for eligible buyers, but it should be compared against other available loan structures based on your financial situation. I would always recommend talking to more than one lender.
Your PCS Deserves a Better Plan Than Guesswork
After 22 years in the Air Force, I understand that a PCS isn't just another move. It's a major decision affecting your finances, commute, and family.
Whether you're arriving in 30 days or six months, I'd be happy to help you explore your options and build a relocation plan that fits your needs.
PCSing to Nellis or Creech AFB? Let's build your relocation plan before you arrive.
Ready to get started?
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📞 Call or Text AJ: 702-808-1150
✉️ Email: aj@ajkehl.com
AJ Kehl | The Real Estate Chief
Retired USAF Chief Master Sergeant | Las Vegas Realtor
Moving somewhere other than Las Vegas? Through Frontline Relocation Network, I provide education, resources, and even help connect you with a vetted real estate professional at your next duty station.
