Economy

We’re diverse and proud of it!

The authors of “Boomtown USA” ranked Carson City as one of the top 50 communities in the West for the greatest opportunities for business, jobs and lifestyle and a favorite relocation spot for companies interested in low taxes, affordable housing and real estate costs, and an abundant labor force.

The discovery of silver in Virginia City brought the first economic boom to Carson City in 1859. Today’s economy is fueled by lower taxes, less regulation, less traffic, less crime and pollution, and a high quality of life.

Carson City has one of the most diversified and balanced economies in Nevada. There are over 1,800 business establishments in Carson City, employing over 34,000 persons. The services category employs 28,500 and is the largest single employment category.

Government (state and local) employs over 11,500. Retail trade is the third-largest employer followed by manufacturing.

Carson City Employment Summary

Overall Average Hourly Wage - $18.25
 

• Construction: $19.19
• Manufacturing:   $17.62
• Information: $17.76
• Financial:         $15.77
• Education & Health:   $19.69
• Leisure & Hospitality: $9.37
• Government: $23.64

 
Largest Private Employers (over 200 employees)

• Carson City Nugget
• Casino Fandango
• Chromalloy Nevada
• Wal*Mart Supercenter
• Gold Dust West
• Carson Station Hotel
• Harley-Davidson Financial
• PCF Structurals
• Costco Wholesale Corp
• Mission Industries

Source: Nevada Job Connect

Manufacturing

176 manufacturers call Carson City home making our city the largest light industry manufacturing base in Nevada and accounts for approximately 24 percent of the total primary earnings in Carson City, employing 17 percent of all workers. Most manufacturers are located in the Airport Industrial Park (AIP). Our proximity to major highways, rail (Reno), airports, mild seasonal weather and a favorable regulatory climate make this a convenient location for manufacturers.

The top 5 Carson City manufacturing industries include:

• Electronics
• Transportation
• Machinery
• Plastics and Rubber
• Chemical