Mineral County, Nevada: A Comprehensive Overview
As of 2025, Mineral County is home to approximately 4,510 residents, marking a slight decline of –0.2% year-over-year and a −5.9% change since 2010. With just one person per square mile, this county offers vast open landscapes, clean air, and a close-knit community—ideal for homebuyers seeking space, privacy, and a slower pace of life.
Cities and Communities Inside Mineral County
County Seat & Largest CDP: Hawthorne (≈3,118 residents)
Other CDPs: Mina, Schurz, Walker Lake
Unincorporated Communities: Luning, plus historical locales like Aurora, Walker Lake resort area, Luning. Hawthorne Army Depot also anchors the local economy.
Top 3 Industries in Mineral County
Military & Government: Hawthorne Army Depot is the county's economic backbone.
Tourism & Outdoor Recreation: Walker Lake boating and fishing, hot springs, and a new “Plaza on Main” park event space draw visitors.
Mining & Minerals: Historical and ongoing mining operations support jobs in small towns like Luning and Schurz.
Annual Events and Festivals for Mineral County
Quarterly Bingo Nights: Community-driven events at the USO building, drawing over 200 players.
Plaza on Main Ribbon Cutting: May 2025 debut featuring local performances and ribbon ceremony.
Skate Night & Seasonal Community Gatherings: Rotating monthly events that build local engagement.
Why This Matters to Home Buyers
In Mineral County, affordability meets opportunity. FHA loan limits define what you can finance—whether you’re mulling over a starter home in Hawthorne, a cabin near Walker Lake, or a multi-unit rental by the Depot.
Knowing the FHA limit gives you clarity on budget range, avoids jumbo financing surprises, and keeps your home search focused on properties that qualify right away.
Reference Annotations
World Population Review – Mineral County Population Estimates (2025)
Nevada Demographics – Population & Income Data
Visit Mineral County – Community Events & New Plaza on Main
Wikipedia – Mineral County, Hawthorne, Luning Communities
Mineral County Master Plan & County Park Data
Wikipedia – Luning Mining History
HUD FHA Mortgage Limits Database
