NOTE: Originally posted by alohavalley but has recently been modified and updated.
Central - The worst parts of the valley as far as crime and living standards is central. Areas around downtown Las Vegas and downtown North Las Vegas. Especially the lettered and numbered streets. Although not far from the Stratosphere there is an area of nice historical homes (Las Vegas time standards).
North Las Vegas - (called North Town by many) The area near and around downtown NLV isn't the greatest. Near the area I discribed in the above paragraph. Heading north to the newer parts of NLV, it's a world of difference. Very nice, new and growing fast.It's a great area. You do have to be cautious of the Pig farm.
NW - Very nice area. I Beautiful areas such as Summerlin, Desert Shores and Lone Mountain neighborhoods. Close to everything like hospitals,Medical centers, shopping , schools and parks. Easy access with the 95 and the 215.
(Summerlin) - Very nice! they've won several national awards. Lots of trees, winding roads, and beautiful neighborhoods. Being at a higher elevation and shaded from the west mountains it's cooler than most parts of the valley. High standards of living. If you're a HOA type, great! If not you'll have a hard time finding a non-HOA neighborhood.
NNW-Centennial Hills - Very nice area , all new and growing. Easy access with the 95 and 215. Most of the roads out there are wide roads, traffic is way less congested than the SW.All new schools, parks and shopping. Close to the State park and the beautiful Mt. Charleston.
SW - The least crowded area, nice and quiet (for now). It's nice to drive around the SW and not have so many cars on the road. The area is growing, but no where as fast as the NW. Unfortunately I think It'll change with new neighborhoods popping up and two new hospitals. Right now amenities aren't as plentyful, but still only a short drive away. Certain areas are in the airport flight patterns.
NE - Older part of town, lots of industrial areas. Nellis AFB is in the NE. With all the commercial/government land it has little room to grow residentially. You can still find nice homes/neighborhoods. If you're thrilled by military aircraft maneuvers and watching the Thunderbirds you'll like it, if not, better stay away.
East - Also an older part of town although it's mixed with some new progress. East side isn't as large because of Sunrise Mountain to the east, Henderson to the south, and Nellis to the north stopping out-spread. Has all amenites and is close to major amenities (airport, UNLV, etc). Just a 5 minute drive to Green Valley. Easy access to the 95 which isn't congested like the NW parts. The East is a diverse area, many nationalities. It's mixed with older and newer neighborhoods, also has some horse ranch areas mixed in. There are some spots that can be avoided, but still has it's share of nice areas. Certain areas are in the airports flight pattern.
West - Has a few areas near central that could be avoided, but overall a nice area with all amenites. The far west side has the 215, but besides that surface streets can get congested with no freeway access. Has some mid-age neighborhoods with established landscaping - trees and yard, yeah! Further west, has lots of nice and new neighborhoods.Close to China Town. people say its as rough getting to the strip from this area than it is from the NW, due to congested traffic, lights, school zones and no freeway access.
Green Valley - GV is part of Henderson. Like it's name, has a lot of greenery. Near to the airport, some areas maybe a little to close - flight patterns. Nice homes and neighborhoods, lots of amenities. Lots of new progress. Certain amenity areas seem to get congested, especially around the mall area. Traffic in the 15 and 215 area can get bad, 2nd worst in the valley.
Henderson - "Old Henderson" as people call it. Older, original parts of Henderson. There are some areas that seemed a little run-down, but for the most it's a nice area. Out of the way from all the hussle and bussle of the neon, but like the NW it seems so far out (unless you live in the area). Has all the everyday amenites. The further down you go the less crowded it seems. Closer to Lake Mead, Lake Las Vegas.
While most areas are safe, crime does happen everywhere. Common sense and safety precaution is your best protection.