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Lincoln County

county

Lincoln County, located in southeastern Nevada, is a vast and sparsely populated area known for its rugged beauty and rich history. As of 2020, the population was 4,499, making it the fourth-least populous county in the state. The county seat is Pioche, a town that retains its Wild West character. Lincoln County offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, historical sites, and a glimpse into Nevada's frontier past. Historically, Lincoln County's economy was based on mining and agriculture. Today, the service industry and government employment are major sectors. Tourism is also a significant contributor, with attractions like state parks, the Extraterrestrial Highway, and the Area 51. The county is also recognized for its renewable energy potential, particularly solar energy. What sets Lincoln County apart is its blend of natural wonders and quirky attractions. Cathedral Gorge State Park offers otherworldly landscapes, while the Nevada State Route 375, also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway, draws UFO enthusiasts. The county's remote location and vast open spaces provide a sense of escape and a chance to experience the quiet beauty of the Nevada desert.

Lincoln County, Nevada

Overview
Classification
County
FIPS Code
32-017
Country
United States
County
Lincoln County
Geography
Region
Southeastern Nevada
Elevation
10,640 ft
Total Area
10,637 sq mi
Land Area
10,633 sq mi
Water Area
3.8 sq mi
Latitude
37.64
Longitude
-114.88
Climate
Mostly desert and semi-arid climate regions. Long, cold winters in the northern areas and short, mild winters in the southern part of the county. Scarce precipitation throughout the year.
Notable Features
Mount Rummel · Cathedral Gorge State Park · Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge · Rainbow Canyon · Meadow Valley
Neighboring Areas
White Pine County (North) · Millard County, Utah (Northeast) · Beaver County, Utah (East) · Iron County, Utah (East) · Washington County, Utah (East) · Mohave County, Arizona (Southeast) · Clark County, Nevada (South) · Nye County, Nevada (West)
Demographics
Population (2020)
4,499
Est. Population (2026)
4,187
Median Age
45.4
Median Income
$69,496
Poverty Rate
5.04%
Owner-Occupied
73.7%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
In 2023, the racial makeup of the county was 84.7% White (Non-Hispanic), 4.18% Black or African American (Non-Hispanic), 3.57% American Indian & Alaska Native (Non-Hispanic), and 5.28% Hispanic or Latino.
Governance
Government Type
Board of Commissioners
Governing Body
Board of Commissioners
Body Size
5 members
School District
Lincoln County School District
Municipal Services
Fire Protection District · Sheriff's Office · Planning Department · Building Department · Road Department · Emergency Management
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.84%
Economic Profile
Rural · Mining · Tourism · Ranching & Agriculture · Local government & public services
Employment Sectors
Retail Trade · Accommodation & Food Services · Construction · Education and Hospitals · Local Government · State Government
Education
Schools
8
Students
959
Student-Teacher Ratio
21:1
School Districts
Lincoln County School District
Infrastructure
Transportation
U.S. Highway 93 · Nevada State Route 375 · Nevada State Route 319
Utilities
Lincoln County Power District #1
Major Facilities
Lincoln County Courthouse in Pioche
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Cathedral Gorge State Park · Beaver Dam State Park · Echo Canyon State Park · Spring Valley State Park · Kershaw-Ryan State Park · Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge
Parks & Trails
Silver State OHV Trail · Juniper Draw Trail · Ash Canyon Trail · Overlook Trail
History
Founded
1866
Named After
Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States
Historical Significance
Historically significant for its mining past and role in Nevada's statehood. The county's early economy centered on mining booms in Pioche, famously known as “The Roughest Town in the Old West.”
Key Events
Establishment after Congress enlarged Nevada · Mining booms in Pioche · Creation of Clark County from southern portion in 1909