Local business confidence concerns have eased compared with 2025, index shows

Southern Nevada business leaders remain uncertain about the economy's future, but concerns have eased significantly compared to last year, according to a new report from UNLV's Center for Business and Economic Research. The fourth-quarter Southern Nevada Business Confidence Index, which surveyed businesses in September about their expectations for the next quarter, scored overall expectations at 71.2. That represents a 40.9 percent increase year over year, though an index score above 100 is required to indicate positivity.

Expectations across all five measured components — Nevada's economy, sales, profits, hiring, and capital expenditures — have risen substantially since 2025. Hiring expectations saw the largest jump, increasing 64.2 percent. Researchers say the data reflect a continued theme of economic uncertainty, though pessimism has eased regarding sales and profits.

The report also highlights broader demographic and economic trends affecting the state. Researchers note that generational demographics suggest Nevada could face a "Silver Tsunami" of older adults, which would test demand on health and long-term care systems. Additionally, as the United States and Canada engage in a trade war, Nevada could be caught in the middle, with impacts extending beyond tourism.

Other economic indicators show mixed signals. Average daily auto traffic on Interstate 15 at the Nevada-California border serves as a proxy for regional economic conditions. The median household income of Las Vegas visitors has climbed since the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting a more affluent visitor profile, while summer average daily room rates have risen 36.2 percent over the past decade despite a recent dip from a 2024 peak.

Nevada led the nation in post-pandemic small business growth, according to the center's analysis. Business filings surged in 2020 when Las Vegas casinos shut down for 78 days and reached their highest level since 2006 in 2021. Air passenger traffic has also shown a strong resumption of growth after pandemic restrictions were lifted in 2021.

Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal