Best counties to live in Nevada
More counties in the United States experienced population growth in the last year, according to the latest Census data, even as pandemic-related moving trends begin to normalize.
Counties in the South continued to experience growth, particularly in Florida, where 96% of its 67 counties gained new residents. Polk County, Florida, a suburb of Orlando, added the most, with 26,000 people moving there in 2023.
Meanwhile, counties in the Midwest and Northeast continued to lose population, but at slower rates than the year before. Some of the biggest losses were in counties home to large cities, including Cook County, Illinois (home of Chicago) and the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens in New York.
Many counties are experiencing growth due to their job opportunities, education, or relatively affordable housing costs. Others are favored for their historic or well-designed downtowns or access to cultural opportunities.
Stacker compiled a list of the best counties to live in Nevada using rankings from Niche. Niche ranks counties by various factors including public schools, educational attainment, cost of living, and housing.
Keep reading to see if your county made the list.
#5. Pershing County, Nevada
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 6,587
– Median household income: $66,304
– Median home value: $164,400 (73% own)
– Median rent: $652 (27% rent)
– Top public schools: Pershing County High School (grade B), Pershing County Middle School (grade B), Lovelock Elementary School (grade B minus)
– Top private schools:
– Top places: Lovelock (grade B)
About
Pershing County is defined by its vast desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and a lifestyle rooted in self-reliance and simplicity. With a strong connection to mining and agriculture, the area reflects a deep sense of resilience and independence. Small communities foster a quiet strength, where tradition and practicality shape everyday life.
Residents embrace open space, solitude, and the stark beauty of the surrounding terrain. Local events and shared history create a sense of unity despite the wide distances. Pershing County offers a raw, enduring way of life grounded in nature and frontier spirit.
Where is Pershing County?
Pershing County, Nevada is located in the northwestern part of the state, with Lovelock as its county seat. It lies about 90 miles northeast of Reno, a major city in western Nevada. The county is largely rural and spans across desert and mountain landscapes.
Pershing County is approximately 170 miles west of Elko, a key city in northeastern Nevada. It is about 300 miles north of Las Vegas, the state’s largest city. Additionally, the county is roughly 120 miles south of the Nevada-Oregon border, placing it in the remote high desert region of northern Nevada.
#4. Humboldt County, Nevada
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 17,266
– Median household income: $75,574
– Median home value: $242,200 (70% own)
– Median rent: $927 (30% rent)
– Top public schools: Winnemucca Junior High School (grade B+), Sonoma Heights Elementary School (grade B), French Ford Middle School (grade B)
– Top private schools:
– Top places: Winnemucca (grade B), McDermitt (grade unavailable)
About
Humboldt County reflects a rugged, wide-open character shaped by its mining roots, agricultural heritage, and frontier spirit. The landscape offers expansive views, desert valleys, and mountain backdrops that inspire both solitude and resilience. Small towns thrive on self-sufficiency, local pride, and a strong sense of community.
Residents live close to the land, embracing a lifestyle that values independence, hard work, and connection to nature. Outdoor activities, community fairs, and generational ties help define the county’s enduring identity. Humboldt County captures the essence of rural Nevada—tough, grounded, and quietly enduring.
Where is Humboldt County?
Humboldt County, Nevada is located in the northwestern corner of the state, with Winnemucca as its county seat. It lies about 165 miles northeast of Reno, a major city in western Nevada. The county is known for its vast desert terrain and serves as a transportation hub along Interstate 80.
Humboldt County is approximately 180 miles west of Elko, another key city in northern Nevada. It is about 295 miles north of Las Vegas, the state’s largest city. Additionally, the county is roughly 105 miles south of the Nevada-Oregon border, placing it in a remote and sparsely populated region of northern Nevada.
#3. Clark County, Nevada
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 2,265,926
– Median household income: $69,911
– Median home value: $368,800 (56% own)
– Median rent: $1,406 (44% rent)
– Top public schools: Advanced Technologies Academy (grade A+), College of Southern Nevada High School – South (grade A+), West Career & Technical Academy (grade A)
– Top private schools: The Meadows School (grade A+), The Dr. Miriam & Sheldon G. Adelson School (grade A+), Bishop Gorman High School (grade A)
– Top places: Green Valley Ranch (grade A), Summerlin (grade A minus), Enterprise (grade B+)
About
Clark County blends entertainment, economic energy, and desert landscapes into a dynamic and fast-paced environment. It is known for its vibrant urban centers, cultural attractions, and a strong tourism-driven economy. The region balances high energy with suburban neighborhoods and a growing sense of community life.
Residents benefit from diverse lifestyles, world-class amenities, and year-round sunshine. Beyond the glitz, local communities offer parks, schools, and events that build connection and pride. Clark County represents bold growth, cultural variety, and a modern spirit shaped by ambition and resilience.
Where is Clark County?
Clark County, Nevada is located in the southernmost part of the state, with Las Vegas as its county seat and largest city. It lies about 430 miles south of Reno, a major city in northern Nevada. The county borders California and Arizona, placing it in the Mojave Desert region.
Clark County is approximately 100 miles northeast of the California state line near Baker. It is about 300 miles southeast of Tonopah, a central Nevada town. Additionally, the county is roughly 120 miles west of the Arizona border at Kingman, making it the most populous and urbanized area in Nevada.
#2. Douglas County, Nevada
– Overall Rank: 1,295
– Population: 49,476
– Median household income: $84,262
– Median home value: $529,600 (77% own)
– Median rent: $1,360 (23% rent)
– Top public schools: Minden Elementary School (grade A), Pinon Hills Elementary School (grade A), Gardnerville Elementary School (grade A minus)
– Top private schools: Sierra Lutheran High School (grade A minus), Faith Christian Academy (grade unavailable), Grace Christian Academy (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Kingsbury (grade A minus), Minden (grade B+), Gardnerville (grade B)
About
Douglas County offers a scenic blend of open valleys, alpine landscapes, and a strong sense of heritage rooted in ranching and community pride. The area reflects a balance between natural beauty and thoughtful development, with towns that value tradition and connection. It’s a place where wide skies meet close-knit neighborhoods.
Residents enjoy outdoor recreation, seasonal events, and a peaceful lifestyle supported by local businesses and shared values. The pace is calm, yet enriched by scenic surroundings and a commitment to quality of life. Douglas County represents a harmonious mix of rural character, mountain charm, and community warmth.
Where is Douglas County?
Douglas County, Nevada is located in the western part of the state, with Minden as its county seat. It lies about 15 miles south of Carson City, the state capital. The county borders California and includes part of Lake Tahoe’s eastern shore.
Douglas County is approximately 60 miles south of Reno, a major city in northern Nevada. It is about 190 miles northeast of Fresno, California, across the Sierra Nevada. Additionally, the county is roughly 430 miles northwest of Las Vegas, placing it in the scenic Sierra foothills region.
#1. Washoe County, Nevada
– Overall Rank: 887
– Population: 486,674
– Median household income: $81,531
– Median home value: $460,000 (59% own)
– Median rent: $1,401 (41% rent)
– Top public schools: The Davidson Academy (grade A+), Academy of Art Careers & Technology (grade A+), Truckee Meadows Community College High School (grade A)
– Top private schools: Sage Ridge School (grade A+), Bishop Manogue Catholic High School (grade A), Excel Christian School (grade B+)
– Top places: Incline Village (grade A), Mogul (grade A minus), Reno (grade B+)
About
Washoe County combines high desert landscapes with vibrant urban life, offering a mix of natural beauty, innovation, and cultural depth. The region is shaped by a strong sense of community, outdoor recreation, and a growing economic base anchored in technology and tourism. Historic neighborhoods, scenic trails, and evolving downtowns reflect its dynamic character.
Residents enjoy year-round access to mountains, festivals, and educational institutions that support a balanced and active lifestyle. A blend of tradition and forward-thinking energy defines daily life. Washoe County stands out for its adaptability, natural charm, and community-focused spirit.
Where is Washoe County?
Washoe County is located in the northwestern part of Nevada, bordering California. It lies approximately 130 miles northeast of Sacramento and about 450 miles north of Las Vegas, placing it close to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The county seat, Reno, is a major urban center and often referred to as “The Biggest Little City in the World.”
Reno is roughly 22 miles north of Lake Tahoe, giving Washoe County proximity to year-round recreational areas including skiing, hiking, and lake activities. The county also borders Oregon to the north and stretches over 6,500 square miles, making it one of the larger counties in Nevada by area. Its location along Interstate 80 connects it directly to San Francisco, approximately 220 miles to the west.
This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
By Stacker
