About Carson City

Carson County is located in the western portion of Nevada bordered by Lyon County, Douglas County and the State of California. Average elevation of Carson City is 4,600 feet. 

A Historical Perspective

Carson City is recognized as one of the least populated state capitols; however, it is one of the largest with an area of 143.5 square miles.  

Originally settled by ranchers in 1851, Eagle Valley was the beginning of Carson City.  A group of lawyers in 1885 purchased part of Eagle Valley for $500 and a herd of horses.  He surveyed and plotted the town’s site including 10 acres for a state capitol building.

John C. Fremont scouted out the area, together with “Kit” Carson, who identified the nearby Carson River.  Nevada was signed into statehood by President  Abraham Lincoln who recognized the importance of the state’s silver and gold mining during the Civil War.  Nevada became part of the Union on October 31, 1864 and shortly thereafter, was selected as the capitol.

Carson City Now

Carson City is booming and offers many amenities of larger cities:  cultural arts, dining, music, and fine health care.  As the state capitol, one can tour the capitol as well as the legislative building which houses the senate and assembly.  The Nevada State Supreme Court is in close proximity as is the State Attorney General’s office.   Carson City is only 25 minutes from spectacular Lake Tahoe as well and approximately 40 minutes to the Reno Tahoe International Airport.

Whether visiting for a day or longer, be sure and take your time as you stroll through the “garden-like atmosphere” of “downtown”.   Welcome to Nevada!

State Taxes
In Nevada, you will not pay any of the following state taxes: Personal, Corporate, Franchise Tax on Income, Unitary, Inventory, Inheritance, Estate, gift, Admissions, or chain Store Tax. 

Median Housing Cost
Single-Family Units:
Carson City $181,000
Tahoe Area $390,000

Multi-Family Units: (2 bedroom rental)
Carson City $650.00/Month
Tahoe Area $950.00/Month

Precipitation
Average Annual Rain 9.37 inches
Average Annual Snowfall 19.40 inches

Population Estimates and Projections
Carson City
1999 51,590
2005 55,350
2015 59,590
2018 61,190

Carson City Schools
View a list of local schools in the Carson City area.
View Local Schools

Informative Website
Carson City Convention & Visitors Bureau