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Russian Community in Las Vegas (Nevada, USA)

Фото 1
Las Vegas is home to a significant number of Russian-speaking residents. Initially, acrobats and other circus performers came here to work. Some extended their contracts, while others stayed permanently, bringing their families.

Unlike San Francisco or Los Angeles, there is no organized Russian community in Las Vegas. The main place for communication among Russian-speaking residents is the Russian church, as it was for the first immigrants on the east and west coasts. History repeats itself. However, today Russians actively communicate online and hope to open a Russian center at the church, where Russian language classes will be held and a children's Sunday school will operate.

Yana, who has lived in Las Vegas for almost 20 years, shares her experience of life in the 'casino capital': 'The average salary in Vegas, for example, in casinos, is $5-7 per hour. However, thanks to tips, earnings depend on the individual worker. Everyone who works legally in Las Vegas must have a license and no legal issues, which is confirmed by the police department. Rental prices here are significantly lower than in California. One-bedroom apartments or condominiums can be rented for $500-700 per month, while two-bedroom ones will cost $650-800. Utility costs for water are usually included in the rent. In two-bedroom apartments, electricity and gas bills can be around $200 per month, and in private homes, $300-400, which is quite expensive. Buying private property does not provide benefits for obtaining citizenship, but it can help in obtaining a multiple-entry visa and subsequently a green card.'

Vladimir Sergeev, who came from the Belarusian city of Orsha, shares his impressions: 'There is no Russian or Slavic neighborhood in Vegas. However, there are places familiar to anyone who came from the USSR or the CIS: Russian stores, restaurants, cafes, and clubs. Russian clubs and restaurants often hold parties and concerts for their people, but everyone is welcome, just as a Belarusian living in Vegas can freely attend a Latin American party.'

Vladimir also notes some downsides of living in Las Vegas: 'Although the crime rate in Las Vegas is unfortunately rising, the criminal situation here is still better than in the state of Nevada and the USA as a whole. Police are constantly patrolling the streets, and even at night, one can feel safe. However, a major downside of the city is the litter on the roads and the large number of homeless people.'

Geo point

Русская община в Лас-Вегасе (Невада, США)

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