Carlin
Carlin is a small city in Elko County, Nevada, located along Interstate 80 approximately 23 miles west of Elko. As of the 2020 Census, Carlin had a population of around 2,050.[1]
Founded in the 1860s as a railroad and supply stop, Carlin grew with the arrival of the Central Pacific Railroad. It later gained prominence as a hub for the region’s gold mining industry. Today, Carlin is home to major mining operations, including the nearby **Carlin Trend**, one of the richest gold-mining districts in the world.[2]
Quick Facts
- **Incorporated:** 1971
- **County:** Elko County
- **Population:** ~2,050
- **ZIP Code:** 89822
- **Elevation:** ~4,900 ft
- **Major Route:** Interstate 80
Local Economy
Carlin is closely tied to:
- **Gold mining and mineral processing**
- **Rail freight and logistics**
- **Energy infrastructure and water utilities**
- **Support industries for mining and transportation**
Education
Carlin is part of the Elko County School District, and includes:
- Carlin Combined School (K–12)
- Access to higher education in nearby Elko via Great Basin College
Community Features
- Community parks and small-town civic events
- Local museum exhibits on mining and railroad history
- Proximity to outdoor recreation and desert landscapes
Government and Services
Carlin has its own city government, including public works and a volunteer fire department. Law enforcement is coordinated with Elko County and regional support agencies.
Related Pages
References
- ↑ U.S. Census Bureau. QuickFacts: Carlin city, Nevada. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/carlincitynevada
- ↑ Nevada Mining Association. History of the Carlin Trend. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from https://www.nevadamining.org