Virginia City

Nearby Communities

• Gold Hill
• Dayton
• Reno
• Carson City
• Silver City

Virginia City is a historic town in western Nevada and the county seat of Storey County. Perched high in the Virginia Range above the Carson River Valley, it is famously known as the heart of the **Comstock Lode**—one of the richest silver strikes in American history. As of the 2020 Census, the town had a population of approximately 700 residents.

Founded in the late 1850s, Virginia City exploded during the silver boom of the 1860s and helped fund the Union during the Civil War. It remains one of the most significant historical communities in the West, preserved as a living museum and active tourist destination.

Quick Facts

• **Status:** Unincorporated town
• **County Seat:** Storey County
• **Population:** ~700
• **ZIP Code:** 89440
• **Elevation:** ~6,200 ft
• **Founded:** 1859
• **Access:** State Route 341 and 342

Local Economy

Virginia City’s modern economy is driven by:

• **Heritage tourism and events**
• **Museums, tours, and historic preservation**
• **Restaurants, lodging, and saloons**
• **Artisan retail and entertainment venues**

Historic Sites and Attractions

• **Comstock History Center**
• **Piper’s Opera House** – one of the oldest in the West
• **Virginia & Truckee Railroad** – historic scenic rides
• **Fourth Ward School Museum**
• **Boot Hill Cemetery and silver mine tours**

Education

Virginia City is served by the Storey County School District, including:

• Hugh Gallagher Elementary
• Virginia City Middle and High School

Governance and Services

As the county seat of Storey County, Virginia City hosts key government buildings, emergency services, and planning offices. It also benefits from preservation oversight due to its National Historic Landmark status.