Overview

Storey County blends Nevada’s industrial innovation with a strong sense of history. Home to both the historic community of Virginia City and the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (TRI)—the world’s largest industrial park—the county plays a critical role in regional manufacturing and logistics. Between 2017 and 2022, employment grew by 81%, reaching nearly 20,000 jobs, making Storey County one of the fastest-growing economies in Nevada.

Major employers such as Tesla, Panasonic, Google, and Switch continue to attract advanced manufacturing and technology investment. The workforce is highly skilled, with 21% of residents holding bachelor’s degrees and labor force participation rising to 57%, above the national average.

These strengths—paired with streamlined permitting and close coordination with state leadership—make Storey County a leading center for business growth in western Nevada.

Fast Facts

  • Population: 4,112 (2024)
  • Land Area: 264 sq mi
  • Elevation: 3,819 ft
  • County Seat: Virginia City
  • Key Asset: Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center (TRI)
  • Higher Education: Served by Western Nevada College, UNR

Additional Advantages

  • Major industrial hub: TRI hosts global employers including Tesla Gigafactory 1, Panasonic, Google, and Switch, contributing to over $7.7B in regional exports.
  • Diverse economy: Key industries include manufacturing, transportation and warehousing, construction, and information technology, with strong projected growth.
  • Strategic location: Immediate access to Interstate 80 and proximity to Reno–Tahoe International Airport and major western markets.
  • Historic and cultural value: Virginia City attracts global visitors and supports Nevada’s heritage tourism sector.
  • Pro-business governance: Storey County’s streamlined permitting and direct access to local decision-makers foster rapid project development.

County Resources

Storey County Official Website
Virginia City Tourism Commission

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

Mineral County

Mineral County is a rural center in western Nevada known for its industrial potential, open space, and connection to federal logistics assets. Anchored by the town of Hawthorne, the county supports mining, manufacturing, and transportation industries within a scenic desert landscape.
Population
4,475 (2024)
Key Industries
Government
Retail Trade
Accommodation & Food
Existing Infrastructure:  
Missing Information
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