Ely

Nearby Communities

• McGill
• Baker
• Ruth
• Lund
• Eureka

Ely is a city in eastern Nevada and the county seat of White Pine County, located at the crossroads of U.S. Route 50 and U.S. Route 93. As of the 2020 Census, Ely had a population of approximately 4,000 residents.

Founded as a stagecoach station and later booming with copper mining, Ely is now known for its **historic railroad**, mining museums, and surrounding mountain scenery. It serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Great Basin and is a key economic and cultural hub in eastern Nevada.

Quick Facts

• **Incorporated:** 1907
• **County Seat:** White Pine County
• **Population:** ~4,000
• **ZIP Code:** 89301
• **Elevation:** ~6,400 ft
• **Major Routes:** U.S. 50, U.S. 93, and U.S. 6

Local Economy

Ely’s economy includes:

• **Tourism and heritage sites** – railroads, museums, parks
• **Mining and natural resources** – copper, lithium, gypsum
• **Government and public services**
• **Retail, hospitality, and small business**

Attractions and Historic Sites

• **Nevada Northern Railway Museum** – scenic train rides and railyard tours
• **White Pine Public Museum** – archaeology, pioneer life, and mining
• **Ely Renaissance Village** – restored historic homes and cultural center
• **Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park** and nearby **Great Basin National Park**

Education

Ely is served by the White Pine County School District, including:

• White Pine High School
• White Pine Middle School
• David E. Norman Elementary
• Great Basin College (Ely campus)

Governance and Services

Ely operates under a city council and mayor system and is also the seat of White Pine County government. Services include:

• Police and fire departments
• Regional healthcare and hospital
• Libraries, parks, and public works