Honestly, when you live here in LV you don't even pay attention to the strip and all the fake - never see the strip unless I'm crossing over to the east side of town which is very seldom. I think it's one of the fastest growing cities around and real estate values increasing daily. Cost of living is one of the highest -- no state taxes but higher DMV fees - this that the other and people complain. Unfortunately, landlords are raising rents so high many young families are leaving LV - they're heart broken and do not want to leave LV. They're unable to find a place to rent or affordable housing. There's an influx of Californians fleeing here.
The weather is amazing except for summer months. People that grew up here and live elsewhere all miss the LV summer nights. The fall, winter and spring time is gorgeous. Clear sunny days most of the time - (only rains about 6-7 times a yr) and a crispness in the air. Beautiful sunsets and mountain ranges surrounding the valley.
Before the 8 yr. Great Recession LV had more 5-star restaurants than any other place on planet earth. Renown chefs from around the world are here and it was #2 for shopping behind Rome, Italy.
The state university now has not only the legal school but medical/dental - has had the Ford Engineering and hotel management for several yrs.
Have never gambled but have many friends who bet on sports. I do see the strip for dinners/socials which are avoided during busy times as much as possible.
Home of Area 51 and the Air Force Thunderbirds -- and another military base besides Nellis - Creech, I think (drones).