Overview

Mineral County is a rural center for industry and outdoor recreation in western Nevada. Anchored by the town of Hawthorne—“America’s Patriotic Home”—the county offers a stable business environment, available industrial land, and access to the Hawthorne Army Depot, a key federal logistics and storage facility.

The local economy is supported by mining, manufacturing, and logistics, with additional employment in construction, education, and public services. Located along U.S. 95, Mineral County provides direct highway access to Reno, Las Vegas, and major western markets while maintaining the advantages of a smaller, connected community.

Fast Facts

  • Population: 4,475 (2024)
  • Land Area: 3,813 sq mi
  • Average Elevation: 3,933 ft
  • County Seat: Hawthorne
  • Airport: Hawthorne Industrial Airport (6,000 ft runway)
  • Higher Education: Served by Great Basin College

Additional Advantages

  • Strategic industrial access: Home to the Hawthorne Army Depot, with supporting infrastructure for logistics, defense, and advanced manufacturing.
  • Key industries: include government, retail trade, accommodation and food, and tourism, supported by a growing small-business community.
  • Quality of life: Walker Lake and over 1,000 miles of off-road trails provide unmatched outdoor access, while low crime rates and open landscapes support a relaxed rural lifestyle
  • Connected governance: Businesses enjoy direct access to county officials, pro-development policies, and streamlined permitting.

County Resources

Mineral County Official Website

Carson City (State Capital)

Nevada’s state capital and a hub for business, Carson City offers streamlined governance, a pro-business tax climate, and direct access to state leadership. With strong infrastructure and a central location, it supports growth in manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and more.
Population
58,337 (2024)
Key Industries
Government
Healthcare
Retail Trade
Manufacturing
Existing Infrastructure:  
Developed

Douglas County

Douglas County is a balanced mix of scenic alpine communities and productive valley industries. Located along the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe’s south shore, the county connects tourism, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors within a strong regional economy.
Population
49,564 (2024)
Key Industries
Accommodation & Food
Government
Manufacturing
Retail Trade
Existing Infrastructure:  
Developed

Lyon County

Lyon County is one of Nevada’s fastest-growing regions, combining strong industrial expansion with deep agricultural roots. Centered around Fernley and Yerington, the county connects major highway and rail networks that serve manufacturing, logistics, and mining operations across the Sierra Region.
Population
63,718 (2024)
Key Industries
Government
Manufacturing
Retail Trade
Construction
Existing Infrastructure:  
Developed

Storey County

Storey County is one of Nevada’s most dynamic business environments, combining historic heritage with modern industrial capacity. Anchored by Virginia City and the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center, the county connects legacy mining with cutting-edge manufacturing and logistics.
Population
4,112 (2024)
Key Industries
Advanced Manufacturing
Logistics
Construction
Existing Infrastructure:  
Developed
Newsletter