Almost 90% of People Think Las Vegas Is Too Expensive for Tourists

A recent poll conducted by Las Vegas Locally on X reveals a troubling trend: 88% of over 15,500 respondents believe Las Vegas has become too expensive for tourists.

Most People Think Las Vegas Is Too Expensive

Although visitors are still coming to Sin City, tourism numbers have been steadily declining since the beginning of the year. In June alone, visitor traffic was down 11% compared to the same month in 2024. High prices across the board, from parking and resort fees to beverages, are contributing to the problem. Shocking examples include someone being charged $26 for a bottle of water at the Aria, and another guest paying $50 simply for charging a laptop at Paris Las Vegas.

Even gamblers are feeling the pinch. Many report that single-zero roulette tables are becoming scarce on the Strip, and blackjack payouts have increasingly shifted from the traditional 3:2 ratio to a less favorable 6:5. 

This new trend comes amidst a significant tourism slump that Las Vegas has been seeing over the past few months. It could be argued that due to the fewer tourists, hotels and casinos have increased their prices to combat expenses while having fewer guests.

People Comment on the Matter

Comments regarding the poll results were not far away. Many online users commented on how things were different a couple of decades ago and gave their opinion on why today’s Las Vegas prices are such. For example, one longtime Las Vegas visitor who frequented the city during the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s expressed frustration over the transformation of the city’s casino landscape. They lamented the loss of classic, character-filled local casinos such as the Frontier, Westward Ho, and Stardust, which have been replaced by more corporate-run establishments.

According to the visitor, many of the perks that once defined the Vegas experience before, such as affordable buffets, generous breakfasts, and free parking, have disappeared. They criticized the shift toward what they see as corporate-driven decision-making, which they believe has eroded the charm and accessibility that once made Las Vegas special.

Another commenter argued that Las Vegas is facing the consequences of its own pricing practices. They pointed out extreme markups, such as hotels charging guests up to 1,000% more for basic items like bottled water from in-room fridges, and suggested that such treatment of customers has contributed to the city’s current struggles.

One individual noted that even everyday expenses have become overwhelming, stating that they can no longer leave the grocery store with any extra money, let alone afford a vacation in Las Vegas.