Henderson

• Location: Clark County, southeastern Nevada, U.S., part of the Las Vegas–Henderson metro area.
   
• Incorporation: Officially became a city on April 16, 1953.
   
• Population: Around 350,000+ residents (2026 estimate), making it Nevada’s second-largest city after Las Vegas.
   
• Area: About 120–121 square miles.
   
• City Slogan: “A Place to Call Home.”
   
• Median Household Income: Roughly $88,000–$90,000+.
   
• Median Age: Approximately 42–43 years.
   

Henderson began in the early 1940s as a federal government planned community to support the Basic Magnesium Plant (BMI), built during World War II. This plant produced magnesium -  known as the “miracle metal” - essential for military aircraft and munitions. It supplied a significant portion of all magnesium used by the U.S. during the war. 

The city was named after U.S. Senator Charles Belknap Henderson when the local post office adopted the name in 1944. The senator never visited the town, but the name stuck after incorporation. 

After WWII, when magnesium production ended, Henderson nearly became a ghost town — but locals revitalized it through private ownership and community planning. Over decades, Henderson evolved into a thriving suburban city with master-planned communities, business growth, and improved infrastructure. 

• Population Growth: Rapid growth year over year, continuing into 2026.
   
• Households & Families: A mix of families, young professionals, and older adults; average household size around 2.5 people.
   
• Education: A well-educated community with a significant share holding bachelor’s or advanced degrees.
   
• Lifestyle: Known for a suburban feel, quality neighborhoods, and many parks and trails.
   

• Diverse Economy: Retail, health care, hospitality, professional services, and manufacturing are major sectors.
   
• Top Employers: Includes the City of Henderson, Barclays, Amazon distribution, Green Valley Ranch Resort & Spa, Sunset Station, and major health systems.
   
• Growing Job Market: The city attracts advanced industries and talent due to a relatively high percentage of residents with higher education.
   

Henderson has extensive outdoor amenities with hundreds of miles of trails, parks, and recreation areas, appealing to families and outdoor lovers.

Public schools in Henderson are generally above average in performance, and the city supports higher education and workforce development partnerships. 

• Often ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. due to safety, planning, and quality of life.
   
• Received the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for performance excellence - one of only a few U.S. cities honored.
   

• Master-Planned Communities: Green Valley Ranch, Anthem, Lake Las Vegas, MacDonald Highlands, and more offer diverse housing and lifestyle options.
   
• Sunset Station: One of the area’s major resorts and entertainment destinations in Henderson.
   
• Historic Sites: Henderson Townsite Historic District and other landmarks reflect the city’s WWII heritage.
   
• Trails & Natural Areas: Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area offers cultural rock art and scenic outdoor recreation near the city.
   

• Second Largest in Nevada: It surpassed Reno to become Nevada’s No. 2 city behind Las Vegas.
   
• Safety Reputation: Frequently recognized as one of the safest cities in the U.S..
   
• Green City: Named among Nevada’s “Greenest Cities” due to parks, air quality, and open space.

Contact Krista Larason, REALTOR® or any Reside agent for current listings, market insights, and a personalized tour of homes in the Henderson area.