A Calm, Practical Checklist
Moving to Las Vegas without employment already lined up is more common than people admit. It can work — but it requires planning, flexibility, and realistic expectations.
Use this checklist to stabilize first, then build forward.
Before You Arrive (If You Still Have Time)
☐ Secure 30–60 days of living expenses if possible
☐ Research starter job options (temp agencies, CCSD, Amazon, events)
☐ Understand that Strip and casino jobs often require local experience
☐ Budget for Nevada-specific paperwork (DMV, fingerprints, licenses)
☐ Identify backup housing plans if employment takes longer than expected
☐ Save important documents (ID, Social Security card, certifications)
First 7–14 Days After Arrival
☐ Apply to temporary or fast-hire jobs first
☐ Register with event staffing agencies (Best, HADCO, etc.)
☐ Apply to Amazon or logistics roles if immediate income is needed
☐ Begin CCSD applications if interested (expect delays)
☐ Get a Nevada phone number if you don’t already have one
☐ Start building local references — even short-term work helps
Income Stabilization Phase
☐ Accept transitional work without seeing it as permanent
☐ Prioritize reliable income over ideal roles initially
☐ Track expenses carefully during the first month
☐ Avoid high-cost commitments until income stabilizes
☐ Keep one or two calm job leads moving forward at all times
This phase is about reducing pressure, not defining your future.
Licensing & Background Processes (Don’t Delay These)
☐ DMV appointment (license / ID)
☐ Vehicle registration (if applicable)
☐ Fingerprinting or background checks (schools, events, casinos)
☐ Health cards, TAM cards, or permits if working in hospitality
Some of these take weeks — start early.
Mental & Emotional Check-Ins (This Matters)
☐ Expect slower hiring than other cities
☐ Don’t interpret delays as rejection
☐ Limit comparisons to Strip success stories
☐ Build a simple daily routine (walks, library time, job blocks)
☐ Reach out for support early if resources get tight (211, food pantries)
Las Vegas can feel isolating at first — structure helps.
Red Flags to Avoid Early On
☐ Don’t rely on a single job lead
☐ Don’t burn savings waiting for a “perfect” role
☐ Don’t underestimate onboarding timelines
☐ Don’t take high-interest loans to cover rent
☐ Don’t assume prior experience automatically transfers
Stability comes before optimization.
Signs You’re On the Right Track
☑ You have any income coming in
☑ You’re completing required paperwork
☑ You’re building local familiarity
☑ You’re learning how the city actually works
☑ Pressure is slowly decreasing
Progress in Las Vegas is often quiet — but real.
Final Thought
Moving without a job isn’t reckless — it’s high-risk without structure.
With patience, flexibility, and short-term planning, many people find their footing here. The goal isn’t to land your forever job immediately — it’s to stay housed, fed, and steady while you build.
Save this list.
Come back to it when things feel noisy.
If you’re moving to Las Vegas without a job, this one-page checklist can help you stay grounded and focused during the first few weeks. Save it or download it for reference.
Download the one-page checklist (PDF)