Goldfield

Nearby Communities

• Tonopah
• Silver Peak
• Dyer
• Beatty
• Hawthorne

Goldfield is the county seat of Esmeralda County, Nevada, and a legendary mining boomtown that once held the title of Nevada’s largest city. Located along U.S. Route 95 between Tonopah and Beatty, Goldfield had a population of approximately 250 as of the 2020 Census.

Goldfield exploded onto the national stage in the early 1900s with one of the richest gold strikes in Nevada history. At its peak around 1906, the town had over 20,000 residents, five railroads, and some of the most extravagant buildings in the state. Today, it remains a small, quiet town known for its ghost-town atmosphere, preserved ruins, and deep historical roots.

Quick Facts

• **Status:** Unincorporated
• **County Seat:** Esmeralda County
• **Population:** ~250
• **ZIP Code:** 89013
• **Elevation:** ~5,600 ft
• **Founded:** 1902
• **Historic Peak Population:** ~20,000 (1906)

History and Landmarks

• **Goldfield Hotel** – A historic, reportedly haunted landmark
• **Goldfield High School** – Restoration of a 1907 building in progress
• **Esmeralda County Courthouse** – Still in use since 1907
• **Ghost town tours** and old mining equipment scattered throughout town
• **Goldfield Days** – Annual celebration with parades, reenactments, and vendors

Local Economy

While no longer a booming gold center, Goldfield’s economy includes:

• **Tourism and heritage tourism**
• **Art galleries and antiques**
• **Rockhounding and outdoor recreation**
• **County government and services**

Education

Students attend schools in nearby Tonopah through the Esmeralda County School District.

Governance and Services

Goldfield is the county seat of Esmeralda County, and all major government offices are located in the town. Local law enforcement, emergency response, and civic management are overseen by county officials.