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One glaring reason for the decline is the skyrocketing cost of living in Vegas. Cocktail prices range from $8 to $20, and everyday expenses like food, drinks, and even snacks at hotels are exorbitant. For instance, a single packet of potato chips can cost $12, and a typical soda might be $12 as well. Hidden fees pervade the city’s service industry; even unplugging a tray or using an outlet can incur hefty extra charges. These costs create a sense of overcharging and make visitors feel ripped off—a far cry from the carefree city where freebies like shows, food, and drinks were once staples to lure visitors in.