RANK #257 / 996 · POP 51,698 · NV
PROJECTED GROWTH: +1.7%
Tonopah, the county seat of Nye County, offers a glimpse into Nevada's rich mining history and is recognized as a top stargazing destination due to its remote location. This vast county, the largest in Nevada, is located in the south-central part of the state. Pahrump, the most populous town, sits about 60 miles west of Las Vegas, making commutes to the city possible for some residents. The community feel varies across the county's distinct northern and southern regions, with diverse natural scenery ranging from the hot springs and snowy mountains of Big Smokey Valley to the desert landscapes of Amargosa Valley, which borders Death Valley National Park. Outdoor recreation opportunities include hiking, off-roading, and exploring areas like the Alta Toquima Wilderness and Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park.
Life in Nye County often involves a connection to its natural surroundings and a more spread-out community lifestyle. Many residents own their homes, and the area attracts retirees. While some families commute to Las Vegas, local public transportation options are available in Pahrump and connect to other towns and even to Las Vegas and Reno via a bus service. The economy is supported by various sectors, including retail trade, construction, and accommodation and food services. Recent economic developments show a focus on renewable energy, with significant interest in solar power and potential for lithium extraction, particularly in areas like the Amargosa Valley. The county is also working to enhance recreational infrastructure, such as the Carvers Arena and Recreation Area.
Above national median (4.7x)
Above national median (13x)
Housing is fairly valued at 6.0x relative to local economic output. Climate and geography support a structural premium. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Rock Valley Energy Center (Solar & Battery Storage)
Boulevard Associates, LLC
|
$3,200M | Planned |
|
Tidewater Solar Farm & Battery Energy Storage System
Tidewater Solar Farm, LLC
|
$2,400M | Proposed |
|
Amargosa West Solar Project & Battery Energy Storage System
US Solar Assets, LLC
|
$2,400M | Proposed |
|
Ashton Energy Center (Solar & Battery Storage)
Undisclosed
|
$2,049M | Planned |
|
Tarantula Canyon Energy Center Project (Solar & Battery Storage)
Boulevard Associates, LLC
|
$2,000M | Proposed |
|
Amargosa Phase 1 Solar-plus-Storage Project
NV Energy (Berkshire Hathaway Energy)
|
$600M | Proposed |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Nye County has a Boom Town Index score of 74/100, ranking #257 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +1.8% and a median household income of $53,602, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Nye County is $235,500 with median rent at $1,004/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.2276, which is less affordable than the national average.
Population growth: +3.2% year-over-year. Job growth: +1.8%. Home values changed +2.5% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 3.74% of Nye County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.