Las Vegas is facing a tourism downturn as rising prices deter international visitors. Discover how high costs are reshaping the city’s appeal for business and leisure travellers alike.
Once a magnet for international tourists and corporate events, is experiencing a steady decline in visitor numbers—raising concerns about the city’s escalating costs and shifting market focus.
According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, overall visitor numbers have dropped every month in 2025, with a 6.5% year-on-year decline compared to 2024. International arrivals at Harry Reid International Airport fell by 8.7% in May alone, signalling a broader trend that could impact the city’s reputation as a global destination for both leisure and business travel.
Industry observers point to rising prices as a key deterrent. From $30 (£22) glasses of house wine to $50 (£36) minibar water charges, travellers are increasingly voicing frustration over what they perceive as excessive costs. One British visitor reported paying $74.31 (£54.63) for two drinks at the Sphere, while another was stunned by a $26 (£19.11) charge for a single bottle of Fiji water at the Aria Resort & Casino.
Anthony Curtis, publisher of the Las Vegas Advisor, told The Times that many visitors feel exploited once they arrive. “On the Strip, people get taken for a ride,” he said. “They’re tired of being treated like this and having to pay these ridiculous prices.”
Curtis also noted a strategic pivot by many casinos and resorts, which are increasingly targeting high-net-worth individuals at the expense of the middle market. A 2024 study revealed that the average income of Las Vegas visitors now stands at $93,000 (£68,365), effectively pricing out many budget-conscious travellers.
Despite the backlash, some travellers argue that Las Vegas can still be enjoyed on a budget—with the right expectations. “People come to Vegas expecting champagne on a beer budget,” one user wrote. “You can have an amazing time, but you may need to skip certain experiences or restaurants.”
For business travellers, the implications are significant. As Las Vegas continues to reposition itself as a luxury-first destination, companies may need to reassess the value proposition of hosting events or meetings in a city where even basic amenities come at a premium.
With international arrivals declining and online sentiment turning sour, Las Vegas faces a critical juncture. Whether the city can balance its high-end ambitions with broader accessibility may determine its future as a global hub for business and leisure alike.