History & Arts Buyers
- Only Comstock-era hamlet in Lyon County
- Victorian-era and miner's cabin properties with genuine provenance
- Arts-colony community of ~170 residents
- Virginia City events and culture 10 minutes north
Silver City, Nevada
Silver City Homes For Sale
Nevada Real Estate Group -- Northern Nevada specialists for Silver City real estate. Historic Comstock-era homes and canyon custom builds from $300K to $600K+, 10 minutes from Virginia City. Live NNRMLS listings, expert Lyon County guidance.
Where Can I Find Silver City Homes for Sale?
Silver City typically holds fewer than a dozen active listings in the 89428 ZIP -- restored Comstock-era structures from $300K to distinctive custom canyon homes near $600K -- according to NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS data. Every active property appears in the live portal below, updated daily.
MEDIAN LIST PRICE
$52K
NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of November 3, 2026
DAYS ON MARKET
—
NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of November 3, 2026
TO VIRGINIA CITY
10 min
SR-342 north
TO CARSON CITY
25 min
SR-342 to US-50 west
Property research
Verify for your address
Confirm current school assignments, association documents, parcel taxes, and insurance with the applicable sources.
Last updated
September 26, 2026
Individual data periods may differ from the page update date.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What Should You Know About Silver City at a Glance?
Silver City is Lyon County's only Comstock-era residential hamlet -- homes in Gold Canyon on SR-342 between Dayton and Virginia City, median list price $51,500 and —-day path to contract per NREG’s MLS analysis / NNRMLS (89428). Takeaways cover what these numbers mean for buyers comparing this Lyon County Assessor-rated community against Dayton Valley and Virginia City.
- Price range: $300K-$600K+ for historic and custom canyon homes; documented Comstock-era structures at the top of the range. Median near $51,500 with wide variation by condition and provenance.
- Historic character: Founded 1859 -- Victorian-era and Comstock mining-era buildings alongside miner's cabins and newer custom builds on irregular Gold Canyon lots. No tract product.
- Best for: History and arts buyers, California relocators seeking character unavailable at any price in California metros, remote workers, dark-sky enthusiasts, and retirees seeking a genuinely small town.
- Lyon County context: Unincorporated Lyon County CDP (89428) -- no HOA for most parcels, low property taxes, and land-use rules that differ significantly from Washoe County; a Lyon County specialist matters for Comstock title review.
- Comstock corridor access: Virginia City 10 minutes north on SR-342; Carson City 25 minutes southwest; Reno 40 minutes north via Geiger Grade -- three major destinations from one historic canyon address.
Last updated November 2026 -- Sources: NREG’s MLS analysis, U.S. Census, Lyon County Assessor
PRICE DISTRIBUTION
How Many Silver City Homes Sell in Each Price Range?
The Silver City median list price sits near $52K per NREG’s MLS analysis November 2026 NNRMLS data for the 89428 ZIP. Inventory spans a wide range -- from entry-level miner's cabins to fully-restored Comstock-era structures. Each card shows approximate active-listing counts; given the thin inventory, ranges are approximate.
Browse Silver City Listings
How Can You Find a Silver City Home by Type, History & Price?
Silver City's active listings break down by property type, historic era, and price range -- each link opens our live NNRMLS search pre-filtered to that slice, with counts updated daily from NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS data. Inventory rarely tops 10 homes, so each type slice may show just 2-5 results.
Which Dayton-Corridor Communities Should You Compare?
Tap a community to see current listings, price ranges, and what daily life looks like inside.
By Property Type
By Price Range
2 active listings as of November 3, 2026 · MLS data
STAY AHEAD OF THE MARKET
How Can You Get New Silver City Listings First?
Custom alerts by price, beds, historic designation, and features -- no spam, unsubscribe anytime. Silver City carries fewer than 10 active listings at any moment per NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data. Buyers who see new 89428 listings within hours gain a decisive edge over those waiting for weekend discovery.
- Custom criteria — neighborhood, price, beds, baths, features
- Instant alerts — emailed within minutes of a new MLS listing
- 1,200+ buyers used NREG alerts last year
Create your alert
School planning
Which Schools Serve a Silver City Address?
Ask the district for the address-specific school assignment for the enrollment year, since boundaries change, and confirm it before you buy. Proximity to a school does not guarantee admission; charter, magnet and private schools set their own rules. Find your school district · Nevada Report Card
CRIME DATA
How Can You Check Reported Crime Near a Home?
Ask the law-enforcement agency that serves the address for its current reports, and compare places only across the same reporting period, boundary and offense definitions. Missing records do not mean zero crime, the FBI cautions against ranking communities on crime totals alone, and a citywide figure does not describe a particular street.
FBI crime data resources · FBI guidance on comparing communities
Living In
What's It Like Living in Silver City?
The Answer
Silver City is a tiny historic hamlet in Lyon County -- Victorian-era and Comstock-era homes in Gold Canyon on SR-342, with canyon terrain, dark skies, and an arts-colony community of roughly 170 residents. The Lyon County setting delivers authentic mining-era character, minimal density, and Nevada's zero income tax advantage at a price impossible in California historic towns.
What is Silver City known for?
Silver City is Lyon County's only Comstock-era residential hamlet -- founded in 1859 as a staging point between the Virginia City mines and the Carson River ore-processing mills. Today around 170 residents live among preserved Victorian buildings, restored miner's cabins, and custom canyon homes. The community has reinvented itself as a small arts colony, and residents prize its authenticity and quiet character over the tourist bustle of Virginia City four miles north.
Who should live in Silver City?
Silver City fits buyers drawn by genuine historic character, extreme quiet, and the Comstock heritage corridor. Remote workers who want a singular home-office address without suburban compromise, California arts and history buyers priced out of comparable towns near major metros, dark-sky enthusiasts, retirees seeking a truly small town, and buyers willing to drive 25 minutes to Carson City for services in exchange for a one-of-a-kind property. It is not for buyers who need urban walkability or tract-home move-in convenience.
What is daily life like?
Daily life in Silver City centers on the canyon, the arts community, and the Comstock corridor. Morning walks on Gold Canyon trails, studio work or remote-office hours, and short drives north to Virginia City for dining and events or southwest to Carson City for grocery and medical needs define the rhythm. Virginia City's weekend festivals bring visitors to the area but leave Silver City itself quiet. Lake Tahoe is 50 minutes west for summer and winter recreation.
Location
Where Is Silver City
Silver City sits in Gold Canyon along State Route 342 in Lyon County, Nevada -- about four miles north of US-50 and four miles south of Virginia City. Elevation roughly 4,700 ft. The hamlet is centered at approximately 39.270 N, 119.640 W -- 10 min from Virginia City and 25 min from Carson City.
Virginia City
10
Min
Carson City
25
Min
Dayton
20
Min
Reno
40
Min
Lake Tahoe
50
Min
Silver City
At a Glance$51,500
Median List Price
2
Active Listings
Varies widely
Price / Sq Ft
—
Days on Market
Median, active-listing and days-on-market tiles: NREG analysis of NNRMLS data via Repliers, as of November 3, 2026.
- Community Type
- Historic Hamlet
- County
- Lyon County
- Primary ZIP
- 89428
- Elevation
- ~4,700 ft
- Founded
- 1859 (Comstock era)
- Setting
- Gold Canyon, SR-342 corridor
- Price Range
- $300K-$600K+
- HOA
- Low / none for most parcels
- Guard-Gated
- No
- To Virginia City
- 10 min
- To Carson City
- 25 min
- Schools
- Lyon County School District
Quick Answer
Is Silver City, NV a good place to live?
Yes -- for buyers who prioritize historic character, canyon solitude, and a genuine arts-colony community over urban density. Silver City offers the only Comstock-era residential address in Lyon County, a median near $420,000 that is a fraction of comparable California historic towns, zero Nevada state income tax, and Virginia City 10 minutes north. According to the Nevada State Demographer, the broader Dayton-Lyon County corridor is among Northern Nevada's faster-growing areas as California households seek the tax advantage and the authenticity that modern corridor communities can't replicate.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (Lyon County)
Census Housing Data / Silver City
What Does the Census Show About Housing in Silver City?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the tiles below compare housing and population figures for Silver City and its surrounding area with the wider county. Each tile's label names the area it covers.
These are housing and population counts only. We don't describe who lives in a neighborhood or suggest which buyers it suits. Compare homes by their features, location, HOA terms and total cost, and use the Census source for the full tables.
118
vs Lyon County 65,088
$319K
vs Lyon County $366K
~74%
vs Lyon County 77%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimates (Silver City CDP) and Vintage 2025 population estimates (Lyon County) · Updated
POPULATION & GROWTH
How Fast Is Silver City and Lyon County Growing?
Silver City itself is stable at roughly 170 residents -- the hamlet's canyon terrain and historic character limit intensive growth. Lyon County and the broader Comstock corridor have absorbed in-migration from Reno and California, and Silver City's scarcity profile supports steady appreciation as Northern Nevada demand increases.
118Silver City CDP residents (ACS 2020–24)
~62,000Lyon County total
+0.0%Silver City CDP growth, 2010–2020 (Census)
Silver City CDP population trajectory, 2010–2024 (Census counts and ACS)
Growth in Silver City is intentionally constrained by terrain and the community's own character. New canyon lots are rare and expensive to prepare. The appeal is scarcity: owning in Silver City means owning one of very few Comstock-era residential addresses in Lyon County -- a finite and non-reproducible asset. Lyon County's countywide growth brings more buyers to the Comstock corridor without fundamentally changing Silver City's intimate character.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (decennial counts) and U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024. Silver City CDP: 2010 and 2020 are decennial Census counts; the last bar is the ACS 2020–2024 5-year estimate. Last updated September 2026.
REPORTED MARKET SERIES
How Is the Silver City Real Estate Market Trending?
Median list price, days on market, and active inventory in the 89428 ZIP from Northern Nevada Regional MLS data, updated monthly. Silver City's thin inventory -- typically fewer than 10 active listings -- means monthly medians shift with each new listing. The trend from 2021 to 2026 shows steady appreciation as Comstock corridor interest grows.
Median List Price
+3.0% YoY (May 2025 -> May 2026)
Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers
Days on Market
42 -> 48 days YoY
Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers
Active Inventory
5-10 active listings; very thin specialty market
Source: NREG analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data via Repliers
—
MEDIAN DAYS ON MARKET · NOV 3, 2026
$52K
MEDIAN LIST PRICE · NOV 3, 2026
2
ACTIVE LISTINGS · NOV 3, 2026
< 1 hr
OUR RESPONSE TIME
RARE INVENTORY
Get matched with a
Northern Nevada specialist.
Market Competitiveness
How Competitive Is Silver City Right Now?
Silver City is a slow-moving specialty market -- fewer than 10 active listings at any moment per Northern Nevada Regional MLS data. The narrow buyer pool means less competition than Dayton or Carson City, but well-documented Comstock-era homes priced correctly attract serious out-of-state buyers quickly. Pricing and patience matter more than speed here.
- 48 daysMedian days on market
- 40-72DOM range by property type
- Wide rangePrice per sq ft (varies by provenance)
- 2Active listings (November 3, 2026)
Before You Buy
What Should You Compare Before Buying a Home in Silver City?
Compare individual homes by the features, services, and total ownership costs that matter to you. The points below can help structure your property research before you make an offer.
Which Buyer Types Fit Silver City?
California Relocators
- Historic character impossible at this price in California
- Zero Nevada income tax vs California 13.3%
- Canyon home for $300K-$600K vs $1M+ comparable in CA
- Lake Tahoe 50 minutes west on US-50
Remote Workers
- Canyon home-office solitude with no suburban compromise
- One-of-a-kind address at a fraction of California pricing
- Zero income tax on all Nevada-sourced remote income
- Carson City and Reno when needed -- 25-40 min
Dark-Sky Enthusiasts
- Canyon setting with minimal light pollution
- Virginia Range open land for nighttime viewing
- Among the darkest skies accessible from a Northern Nevada address
- Astrophotography and stargazing from private canyon lots
Historic Preservationists
- Documented Comstock-era structures with authentic 1860s provenance
- Non-reproducible historic character no modern build can match
- Lyon County historic designation research available
- Scarcity of supply supports long-term value appreciation
Best Fit For
- History and arts buyers — the only Lyon County hamlet with documented Comstock-era structures at a median under $500,000.
- California relocators — historic character impossible at this price in any California market, stacked on zero Nevada income tax.
- Remote workers — canyon solitude, one-of-a-kind address, zero income tax, and Carson City and Reno within 25-40 minutes.
- Dark-sky enthusiasts — some of the darkest skies near a Northern Nevada metro, on canyon lots in the Virginia Range.
- Historic preservationists — finite and non-reproducible Comstock-era structures whose scarcity supports long-term appreciation.
Ready to tour Silver City? Our Northern Nevada team knows every canyon parcel, Lyon County Comstock title nuance, and historic provenance in the 89428 ZIP.
Start Your Silver City Home SearchPros
- Only Comstock-era residential hamlet in Lyon County -- founding 1859, non-reproducible historic character
- Median ~$420,000 for authentic Victorian-era and canyon custom homes impossible at this price in California
- Zero Nevada state income tax -- statewide benefit, five-figure annual savings for California relocators
- Gold Canyon terrain, dark skies, and Virginia Range open BLM land on the community doorstep
- 10-minute access to Virginia City Comstock historic district for dining, arts, and events
- Property taxes capped at 3% annual growth under Nevada law (NRS 361.4723)
- Lake Tahoe accessible in 50 minutes via Carson City and US-50 over Spooner Summit
Honest Considerations
- Extremely thin inventory -- typically fewer than 10 active listings; selection is narrow
- Wide price variation by condition and historic provenance makes valuation and appraisal more complex
- Limited urban amenities -- grocery, medical, and most services require 20-25 min to Carson City
- Lyon County School District ratings are below Carson City and Reno district averages
- Car-dependent with no public transit; SR-342 is the only corridor
- Canyon terrain can add significant site-preparation cost on any improvement or custom build
Community Comparison
How Does Silver City Compare to Dayton Valley and Virginia City?
A side-by-side comparison of Silver City's Comstock character against Dayton Valley's golf-course community and Virginia City's historic-tourism town -- using active-listing data from NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS. Each market serves a different buyer profile despite sharing the Comstock corridor.
| Submarket | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active Listings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver City | $420,000 | Varies widely | 48 | < 10 | Comstock historic -- Arts colony -- Canyon solitude |
| Dayton Valley | $470,000 | ~$240 | 45 | ~45 | Golf-course -- Carson River -- Established |
| Virginia City | $385,000 | ~$200 | 55 | ~18 | Tourist historic -- Victorian district -- Events |
Source: NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS data, June 2026. Median prices based on active listings; days on market from closed sales.
Community Deep Dive
What's Inside the Comstock Corridor Communities?
Submarket 1
Silver City
The only Comstock-era residential hamlet in Lyon County -- Victorian-era structures, miner's cabins, and canyon custom homes in Gold Canyon on SR-342. About 170 residents; arts-colony character; no tract product.
Browse Silver City homes →$420KMedian Price
48Days on Market
< 10Active Listings
Varies widelyPrice / Sq Ft
Submarket 2
Dayton Valley
Lyon County's golf-course community along the Carson River -- established SFR resales with course and mountain views, 20 minutes from Carson City. More inventory and faster pace than Silver City.
Browse Dayton Valley homes →$470KMedian Price
45Days on Market
~45Active Listings
~$240Price / Sq Ft
Submarket 3
Virginia City
The Comstock National Historic Landmark town -- Victorian storefronts, mining museums, and an active tourism economy. Silver City residents prefer it for visits; residential life there means living in a tourist destination.
Browse Virginia City homes →$385KMedian Price
55Days on Market
~18Active Listings
~$200Price / Sq Ft
Submarket 4
Dayton Valley -- Golf-Course Community 20 Min East
Dayton Valley is Lyon County's golf-course community along the Carson River -- established SFR resales from $350K to $600K, 20 minutes from Carson City, with more inventory and a faster market pace than Silver City.
Browse Dayton Valley -- Golf-Course Community 20 Min East homes →$470KMedian List Price
~45Active Listings
20 minTo Carson City
18 holesIn-Community Golf
Where Is Silver City on the Map?
Silver City sits in Gold Canyon along State Route 342 in Lyon County -- about four miles north of US-50 and four miles south of Virginia City, at approximately 39.270 N, 119.640 W. The hamlet is entirely within ZIP 89428, 10 minutes south of Virginia City and 25 minutes northeast of Carson City.
#1
TEAM IN NEVADA
9,600+
HOMES SOLD SINCE 2011
9,097+
★★★★★ REVIEWS
< 1 hr
AVERAGE RESPONSE
STILL DECIDING?
Not sure if Silver City
or Virginia City fits?
BY ZIP CODE
What Does the Silver City Market Look Like by ZIP Code?
Silver City falls within ZIP 89428 -- a ZIP that also covers parts of the Gold Hill area immediately south of Virginia City. The table shows the 89428 snapshot alongside neighboring markets on the Comstock corridor and US-50 for direct price comparison.
| ZIP | Primary Area | Median Price | $ / Sq Ft | Days on Market | Active | YoY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89428 | Silver City -- Gold Hill corridor | $420K | Varies | 48 | < 10 | +3.0% |
| 89440 | Virginia City (89440) | $385K | ~$200 | 55 | 18 | +2.2% |
| 89403 | Dayton -- Dayton Valley | $470K | ~$240 | 45 | 45 | +3.3% |
| 89701 | Carson City (central) | $520K | ~$300 | 38 | 285 | +2.5% |
Source: NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS. Medians from active listings; YoY from closed sales, 2026 vs 2025 year-to-date. ZIP boundaries per Lyon County GIS.
New Construction
Who Are the Top Builders Near Silver City?
Silver City has virtually no new construction -- canyon terrain and historic preservation leave almost no room for builder-grade product. Buyers seeking new construction in the $400Ks within 20 minutes should look at Santa Maria Ranch in Dayton, where LGI Homes and Ryder Homes build from the $400Ks. Call (775) 277-2120.
Outdoor Recreation
What Outdoor Amenities Does Silver City Offer?
Silver City's outdoor life is anchored by Gold Canyon's canyon trails, the Virginia Range terrain, and the Comstock historic corridor -- with Lake Tahoe 50 minutes west and Dayton State Park 20 minutes east. The Lyon County setting delivers canyon solitude, dark skies, and open BLM land without the crowds or price premium of the Tahoe basin.
IN-COMMUNITY
Gold Canyon Trails
Multi-mileHiking -- HistoryFree
Gold Canyon's canyon walls and Virginia Range terrain provide informal hiking throughout the year. Mining-era ruins, old mill sites, and the canyon's natural rock formations create a landscape unlike any in the Northern Nevada corridor.
10 MIN N
Virginia City Historic District
Full townHistory -- Dining -- EventsFree entry
The full Comstock National Historic Landmark 10 minutes north on SR-342 -- Victorian storefronts, mining museums, seasonal events, and dining that Silver City residents can access in a casual 10-minute drive.
20 MIN E
Nevada State Historic Park at Dayton
17 acresHistory -- WalkingFree
Dayton State Park preserves Nevada's first gold-discovery site from 1849 -- a historic stamp mill location and Carson River picnic area.
50 MIN W
Lake Tahoe (Spooner Summit)
191 sq miBoating -- Hiking -- SkiingFree shoreline
North America's largest alpine lake over Spooner Summit on US-50 -- beaches, marinas, hiking, and world-class skiing in winter. Accessible from Silver City via Carson City in about 50 minutes.
ADJACENT
BLM Open Land (Virginia Range)
Open rangeHiking -- EquestrianFree
Bureau of Land Management open range surrounding Silver City and the Virginia Range provides informal hiking, equestrian access, and the solitude that draws buyers to canyon living.
50 MIN E
Lahontan State Recreation Area
17,000 acresBoating -- Swimming -- CampingDay-use fee
Lahontan Reservoir on US-50 east of Fernley offers desert boating, swimming, and camping -- a high-desert lake recreation area rarely crowded even on summer weekends.
The Silver City Lifestyle
What Does a Weekend in Silver City Look Like?
A morning hike through Gold Canyon with canyon terrain and Virginia Range views, an afternoon in Virginia City 10 minutes north for galleries and dining, and evenings watching the stars per Lyon County -- or a drive 50 minutes west to Lake Tahoe for a full weekend. Canyon solitude, Comstock culture, mountain-state access.
170Residents in the hamlet
10 minTo Virginia City
50 minTo Lake Tahoe
$420KMedian List Price
THIS WEEKEND'S OPEN HOUSES
Can You Tour Silver City Homes This Weekend?
Open houses in Silver City are rare given fewer than 10 active listings. Private showings through the Nevada Real Estate Group Northern Nevada team -- call (775) 277-2120 -- are the most reliable way to tour Silver City homes. Set up NNRMLS alerts to see new 89428 listings within hours.
Planning a move
What Should I Verify Before Moving to Silver City?
Budget around the specific home, not a community average. Before you compare the cost of a move to Silver City, get these in writing:
- The parcel's annual assessment, prior-year tax bill and abatement eligibility. A sale alone does not reset Nevada’s tax cap. Nevada tax-abatement rules
- Lender, insurance and utility quotes for the exact address, plus the association's resale documents and any special assessments.
- The school assignment for the enrollment year, confirmed with the district.
- Your tax situation, reviewed by an adviser — California-source income can remain taxable after a move (Franchise Tax Board).
- Qualifying new residents generally must obtain a Nevada driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days. Check the Nevada DMV’s requirements and exceptions for your circumstances.
The full step-by-step relocation checklist, from timeline to first-week setup, is in one place.
Open the relocation guideECONOMY & JOBS
What Drives Silver City's Economy?
Silver City residents draw from Carson City state-government and healthcare employers 25 minutes southwest and the Reno-Sparks metro 40 minutes north. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Reno-Sparks MSA holds 4.0% unemployment in July 2026 (BLS, preliminary). Virginia City tourism and arts employment is 10 minutes north, adding a third employment option for residents who work in the Comstock corridor.
$68,056Median household incomeU.S. Census ACS, Silver City CDP
25 minTo Carson City employersState government -- Healthcare -- Retail
40 minTo Reno-Sparks metro jobsTRI Center -- Tech -- Logistics
10 minTo Virginia CityArts -- Tourism -- Event economy
Top Employers Accessible from Silver City
- State of Nevada (Carson City)State government, DMV, and agency offices 25 minutes southwest on SR-342 and US-50 -- the largest single employer cluster for Silver City commuters.
- Carson Tahoe HealthHealthcare system serving Carson City and the region, 25 minutes southwest.
- Virginia City Tourism & Arts EconomyComstock historic district businesses, galleries, and event venues 10 minutes north on SR-342.
- Tesla Gigafactory Nevada (Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center)Battery and EV manufacturing, 40-45 min via Carson City and I-80 east from Reno.
- Switch Data CentersHyperscale data center campus in the Reno-Sparks area, about 40 minutes north.
- Lyon County School DistrictK-12 campuses across Dayton, Fernley, and Silver Springs -- local Lyon County employer 20 minutes east.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau. Last updated June 2026.
COMMUNITY COMPARISON
How Does Silver City Compare to Virginia City, Carson City & Sacramento?
If you're choosing between Silver City and the nearest alternatives -- the tourist Comstock town 10 minutes north, the state capital 25 minutes southwest, or staying in California -- this table covers the metrics buyers ask about most. Sources are NREG’s MLS analysis, the U.S. Census, and BLS Reno-Sparks MSA.
| Metric | Silver City | Virginia City | Carson City | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median List Price | $420K | $385K | $525K | $650K |
| Historic Character | Comstock 1859 residential | Comstock tourist town | Capital city services | Victorian-era urban |
| Days on Market | 48 | 55 | 38 | 22 |
| State Income Tax | None | None | None | Up to 13.3% |
| Community Size | ~170 residents | ~700 residents | ~55,000 residents | 500,000+ |
| To Lake Tahoe | 50 min | 45 min | 30 min | 2 hrs |
| Urban Amenities | Drive 25 min | Drive 25 min | In town | In city |
| Best For | History -- Arts -- Remote work | Tourism -- Victorian shopping | Capital jobs -- Services | Urban -- Higher cost |
Sources: NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data, U.S. Census ACS. Last updated June 2026.
Cost of Ownership
What Will Silver City Cost You Each Month?
Build a property-specific budget using a lender quote, the parcel tax estimate, insurance quotes and association documents. The starting amounts below are editable illustrations, not current local rates or verified fees. Compare the result with your Loan Estimate, and budget separately for maintenance, utilities and closing costs.
Illustrative Payment Estimator
Estimate Your Silver City Payment
$3,231
Illustrative Monthly Payment
- Principal & Interest$2,515
- Property Tax$208
- Insurance$150
- HOA$200
- PMI$158
Inputs are assumptions, not a loan offer, insurance quote or parcel tax calculation. This simplified fixed-rate example applies the selected PMI rate below 20% down; actual mortgage-insurance eligibility, cost and cancellation depend on the loan. Maintenance, utilities, closing costs and special assessments are additional. Review the CFPB housing budget guide and confirm amounts with the relevant providers.
BUYING AND RENTING
How should you compare buying with renting?
Compare actual homes that meet the same needs over your expected time in the area. A purchase price and an advertised rent alone do not establish which option costs less. Use current quotes and separate monthly cash flow, upfront cash, and the amount you might recover when moving.
Purchase worksheet
Start with the down payment, lender and closing charges, and any immediate repairs. Add principal and interest, property taxes, insurance, mortgage insurance where applicable, association dues, utilities and ongoing maintenance. Identify expenses paid outside escrow so they are included in your household budget.
For a later sale, model the remaining loan balance and selling expenses. Appreciation is uncertain; compare unchanged-price and lower-price cases as well as any growth assumption. Principal repayment builds an ownership interest, but that does not guarantee a profit or make every cash payment recoverable.
Rental worksheet
Use an actual lease offer and confirm the term, deposit, renewal provisions, parking, pet charges, utilities and renter's insurance. Record which maintenance services are included and any costs or restrictions associated with an early move. An advertised starting rent may not include every required charge.
Keep the comparison consistent: use the same time period, household needs and moving assumptions. Include the cash that remains available when a down payment is not used, without assuming a guaranteed investment return. Your need for flexibility and responsibility for repairs also matter alongside the financial figures.
Use scenarios rather than a promised break-even date
There is no verified community-wide holding period or five-year equity gain shown here. Ask your lender to explain financing assumptions and have a tax professional assess any claimed tax benefit for your circumstances. Keep a copy of the quotes and dates so you can update the comparison before making an offer.
PROPERTY-SPECIFIC ASSOCIATION COSTS
Which HOA charges apply to this address?
A community name does not establish a property's current dues or all the associations that govern it. Obtain the applicable resale package, budget and governing documents for the exact address. Confirm the effective date and payment frequency of each fee with the association or its manager.
Recurring charges
Identify master and sub-association dues separately. Check whether utilities, exterior maintenance, insurance, amenities or club access are included, optional or billed separately. A listing's monthly figure may omit a quarterly or annual charge, and an advertised amenity does not establish membership rights.
Closing and special charges
Ask about transfer, document, capital-contribution and other transaction fees, as well as approved or proposed assessments. Confirm who pays each item under the contract. Review available reserve and budget information; historical dues are not a guarantee of future charges.
Rules and access
Verify the actual rules for leasing, pets, parking, property changes and amenity access. Age restrictions and gate staffing require their own current documentation. Do not assume neighboring subdivisions or similarly named communities have identical rules, services or fees.
COMMUTE & TRANSPORTATION
How Easy Is Getting Around from Silver City?
SR-342 connects Silver City to Virginia City in 10 minutes and Carson City in 25 minutes via US-50. The hamlet is fully car-dependent -- but mean commutes to the state capital run under 30 minutes per U.S. Census ACS data for the 89428 ZIP -- shorter than Bay Area commuters typically leave behind. No public transit exists.
Drive Times from Silver City
- 10 minVirginia CitySR-342 north
- 25 minCarson City (downtown)SR-342 south to US-50 west
- 20 minDaytonSR-342 south to US-50 east
- 40 minReno (downtown)SR-341 (Geiger Grade) or via Carson City to I-580
- 50 minLake Tahoe (Spooner Summit)Carson City to US-50 west over Spooner
- 70 minNAS FallonUS-50 east from Carson City
- 45 minReno-Tahoe Intl AirportSR-342 to Carson City to I-580 north
- 2.5 hrsSacramentoUS-50 west over Echo Summit
Transportation Options
Drive times are typical off-peak estimates for the route named; check live traffic before you rely on one.
Quick Answer
How long does it take to close on a home in Silver City?
Most Silver City purchases close in 30-45 days for conventional financing. Cash closes in 7-14 days and are preferred by many Silver City sellers. FHA and VA closes also run 30-45 days but require appraisers familiar with historic properties -- allow extra appraisal time. Lyon County escrow closes smoothly once Comstock-era title review is complete.
Quick Answer
What credit score do you need to buy in Silver City?
Conventional loans generally want 620+, FHA allows 580+ with 3.5% down, and VA has no official floor but most lenders look for 620. For Silver City specifically, FHA and VA appraisers apply additional scrutiny to older historic structures -- some Comstock-era properties may not qualify for government-backed financing without significant remediation. Conventional and portfolio loans are more reliable for historic Silver City properties. Jumbo financing is rarely needed at Silver City's median $52K, but buyers purchasing above $832,750 will need 700+ and stronger reserves.
Silver City FAQ — 17 Answers
What Do Silver City Buyers Most Frequently Ask?
Most AskedWhat is the median home price in Silver City, Nevada?
Silver City median list prices run roughly $51,500 per NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data and NNRMLS data for the 89428 ZIP. The core range spans $300K-$600K across restored Victorian structures, miner's cabins, and custom canyon builds, with the most distinctive documented Comstock-era properties exceeding $600K. Price variation with condition and historic provenance is wider here than in any comparable Northern Nevada market.
What kinds of homes are available in Silver City?
Silver City offers three property types found nowhere else in Lyon County: restored Victorian-era and Comstock-era structures dating from 1859, converted miner's cabins updated for modern living, and newer custom homes on irregular Gold Canyon lots. There is no tract product. Each parcel is individual -- irregular terrain, canyon walls, and historic overlay create one-of-a-kind configurations. Buyers come for character and scarcity, not square-footage value, and the market prices accordingly.
How does Silver City differ from Virginia City?
Silver City is a residential hamlet; Virginia City is a tourist destination. Virginia City is 10 minutes north on SR-342 and draws heavy weekend visitor traffic to its casinos, museums, and Victorian storefronts -- that commerce creates noise and congestion Silver City residents deliberately left behind. Silver City has reinvented itself as a small arts colony where the 170-odd residents prize quiet authenticity over the commercial bustle four miles up the canyon. Buyers choosing Silver City over Virginia City are choosing residents over tourists.
What is the average days on market in Silver City?
A current closed-sale days-on-market statistic is unavailable for this scope. Check the dated market report and recent comparable sales rather than treating an older snapshot as a current sale timeline. Marketing time is distinct from the escrow period, and neither establishes how quickly an individual home will sell.
What are property taxes like in Silver City?
Property taxes in Silver City are low. Lyon County's effective rate runs roughly 0.5-0.7% of market value per the Lyon County Assessor, and Nevada's 3% annual cap on primary-residence increases under Nevada Revised Statutes 361.4723 keeps long-run carrying costs predictable. On a $51,500 median Silver City home, annual taxes typically run $2,000-$360 -- well below California markets where a comparable historic property would carry a far heavier load. Zero Nevada state income tax stacks on top.
Does Silver City have an HOA?
Silver City carries very low or no HOA depending on the specific parcel. Most of the hamlet's historic and custom-home lots are governed only by Lyon County land-use and zoning rules -- not a private homeowner association. This is a meaningful difference from Dayton Valley or Santa Maria Ranch. Buyers should confirm with escrow whether any recorded CC&Rs attach to a specific parcel, as some lots along SR-342 were platted with shared easements, especially those with historic access rights.
What is the cost of living in Silver City?
Day-to-day living costs in Silver City track the rural Nevada average. The median near $51,500 delivers Comstock historic character unavailable anywhere else in Nevada at this price point. Nevada has zero personal income tax -- saving a California household earning $200,000 roughly $15,000-$20,000 per year versus the California Franchise Tax Board's 13.3% top rate -- and Lyon County property taxes carry one of the lowest effective rates in Northern Nevada. Grocery and services require a 20-25 minute drive to Carson City or Dayton.
What schools serve Silver City, Nevada?
Silver City is zoned for the Lyon County School District: Dayton Elementary (K-5), Dayton Middle (6-8), and Dayton High School (9-12) in nearby Dayton. According to GreatSchools, Lyon County district campuses rate in the 4-6 range -- developing relative to Washoe County. Families prioritizing higher-rated public schools look 25 minutes southwest to Carson City campuses like Seeliger Elementary (8/10). Private options include Carson Montessori and Pinon Hills Christian Academy in Carson City.
Is there new construction in Silver City?
Very little. Silver City is almost entirely a resale and restoration market -- the hamlet's 170 residents and canyon lot constraints leave minimal room for new-build activity. Occasional custom homes appear on remaining buildable canyon lots, priced from the $500Ks with significant site-preparation costs given Gold Canyon terrain. Buyers seeking volume new-construction options in the $400Ks are better served by Santa Maria Ranch in nearby Dayton, a 20-minute drive east on US-50.
How competitive is the Silver City real estate market?
Silver City is a slow-moving specialty market -- fewer than a dozen active listings at any given moment per Northern Nevada Regional MLS data. The buyer pool is narrow nationally, concentrated among California arts and history buyers, remote workers seeking radical authenticity, and Comstock heritage enthusiasts. This means well-priced properties take longer than Dayton or Carson City, but a distinctive documented historic home in excellent condition can attract serious out-of-state buyers quickly. Expect 45-75 days for most homes.
What is Nevada vs California income tax savings for Silver City buyers?
Nevada levies zero personal state income tax. A household relocating from California and earning $200,000 per year saves roughly $15,000-$20,000 annually versus the California Franchise Tax Board's 13.3% top marginal rate; a $500,000 earner saves $50,000 or more. For Silver City specifically, the appeal to California buyers is doubly strong: Comstock-era properties at $350K-$600K are impossibly cheap compared with any historic California town near a major metro, and the Nevada tax savings stack on top of a housing price that can be 40-60% below a Bay Area equivalent.
What outdoor amenities does Silver City offer?
Gold Canyon is the setting and the amenity -- canyon trails, Virginia Range rock formations, and dark skies that draw serious stargazers. The Comstock corridor between Silver City and Virginia City is rich with mining-era hiking paths, abandoned mill sites, and open BLM land. Virginia City is 10 minutes north for dining, events, and the historic district. Lake Tahoe is about 50 minutes west via Carson City and US-50. Dayton State Park, Nevada's first gold-discovery site, is 20 minutes east on US-50.
How is the commute from Silver City?
Most Silver City residents commute by car. Virginia City is 10 minutes north on SR-342. Carson City is roughly 25 minutes southwest via SR-342 to US-50 west -- the closest major employer cluster including state-government and healthcare jobs. Reno is about 40 minutes via the Geiger Grade (SR-341) or via Carson City and I-580. NAS Fallon is roughly 70 minutes east on US-50 for military and contractor personnel. No public transit exists -- a car is essential.
What should I know before buying in Silver City?
Before buying in Silver City, confirm whether any historic easements, mining rights, or recorded access agreements attach to the parcel -- these are common on Comstock-era lots and should be reviewed by a Nevada real estate attorney. Budget for a thorough inspection including foundation condition on canyon terrain, roof age, and any environmental review on former mining-adjacent land. Lyon County Assessor records the taxable value; verify the assessed value matches the purchase price for your first-year tax projection. Confirm your Lyon County School District campus assignment, and factor the 20-25 minute drive to grocery and medical services into daily-life planning.
What's the minimum down payment to buy in Silver City?
Most Silver City buyers put down 3-20%. Conventional loans start at 3% for qualified first-time buyers, FHA at 3.5% with a 580 credit score, and VA at 0% for eligible veterans. On a $51,500 median Silver City home, 3% is $1,550 and 10% is $5,150. Buyers under 20% down should budget for PMI. Note that FHA and VA appraisers apply additional scrutiny to historic properties with deferred maintenance or unusual canyon foundations -- consult the Nevada Real Estate Group Northern Nevada team to confirm loan eligibility for a specific Silver City parcel before writing an offer.
Is Silver City better than Virginia City for a buyer seeking historic character?
For residential buyers, Silver City usually wins the character comparison. Virginia City has more preserved Victorian streetscapes and the full Comstock historic district, but its tourism economy creates weekend crowds, commercial noise, and higher average prices on comparable square footage. Silver City is quieter, more residential, and less expensive -- the arts-colony reinvention means neighbors are primarily artists, remote workers, and history enthusiasts rather than absentee owners renting to tourists. Buyers who want to live the Comstock lifestyle rather than visit it consistently prefer Silver City.
Can Nevada Real Estate Group help me buy in Silver City?
Yes. Call (775) 277-2120 to reach the Nevada Real Estate Group Northern Nevada team. We specialize in Lyon County purchases -- Silver City historic structures, canyon-lot custom homes, and the full 89428 ZIP. Our agents know Comstock-era title nuances, Lyon County easement review, and the narrow buyer pool that moves these properties. Virtual tours, relocation coordination, and same-day offer support are all available. Over 9,600 closed transactions and $4.85 billion in volume since 2011 back every negotiation.
Updated November 2026
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PEOPLE ALSO ASK
What Else Do People Ask About Silver City, Nevada?
These are the queries Silver City buyers most commonly search -- answered with verifiable specifics: median prices and days on market from NREG’s MLS analysis and NNRMLS, historic records from the Lyon County Assessor, and school ratings from GreatSchools. Eight questions cover the most frequent buyer gaps.
Is Silver City, Nevada a real town?
Yes. Silver City is a small unincorporated community (CDP) in Lyon County, Nevada, on State Route 342 in Gold Canyon between Dayton and Virginia City. Founded in 1859 during the Comstock Lode silver rush, it has roughly 170 residents today and uses the 89428 ZIP code.
What is Silver City, Nevada known for?
Silver City is known as the only surviving Comstock-era residential hamlet in Lyon County -- a community that grew up in 1859 as a staging point between the Virginia City silver mines and the Carson River ore mills. Today it is a small arts colony with preserved Victorian-era structures, miner's cabins, and canyon custom homes, prized for its authenticity and quiet character.
How far is Silver City from Virginia City?
Roughly 10 minutes north on State Route 342 from Silver City to Virginia City. The two communities share the Comstock historic corridor -- Silver City is the quieter residential hamlet; Virginia City is the active tourist destination with casinos, museums, and Victorian storefronts.
Is Silver City Nevada safe?
Yes. Silver City is one of the quietest communities in Lyon County -- roughly 170 residents, near-total owner-occupancy, and a canyon setting with no commercial traffic. According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data, rural Nevada communities post crime rates far below Nevada's larger cities. The arts-colony character keeps the hamlet stable and neighborly.
What ZIP code is Silver City Nevada?
Silver City uses ZIP code 89428, which also covers the Gold Hill area immediately south of Virginia City on SR-342. All Silver City properties are in Lyon County, not Storey County (where Virginia City is located).
What school district is Silver City in?
Silver City is zoned for the Lyon County School District -- Dayton Elementary, Dayton Middle School, and Dayton High School in nearby Dayton. Families who want higher-rated campuses look 25 minutes southwest to Carson City School District options, including Seeliger Elementary (8/10 GreatSchools) and Carson High (7/10).
Is Silver City in Lyon County or Storey County?
Silver City is in Lyon County, Nevada -- not Storey County where Virginia City is located. This is a common source of confusion because the two communities sit on the same SR-342 corridor. Lyon County Assessor records govern Silver City parcels, and Lyon County land-use rules (not Storey County's) apply.
Are there historic homes in Silver City Nevada?
Yes -- Silver City has documented Comstock-era structures dating from 1859, including Victorian-era buildings, restored miner's cabins, and properties with continuous ownership histories from the mining era. These are genuinely historic properties, not reproductions, and they represent the most characterful real estate on the entire Comstock corridor.
WHY NEVADA REAL ESTATE GROUP
Why Is Nevada Real Estate Group the #1 Real Estate Team in Nevada?
Deep knowledge of Lyon County title, Comstock-era easements, and Northern Nevada specialty markets backs every Silver City negotiation. Across 9,600+ closed transactions and $4.85 billion in volume since 2011, Nevada Real Estate Group ranks #1 in Nevada and #44 nationally -- the largest licensed real estate team in the state.
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Tell the team about your preferred area, budget, timing and property requirements. Ask about representation and the records needed to evaluate a particular home. Review current listings, comparable sales and the written terms of any services before deciding how to proceed. Contacting the team does not guarantee a purchase, sale price or response deadline.
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
Which Communities Are Within 45 Minutes of Silver City?
Compare Silver City with neighboring Northern Nevada communities along the SR-342 and US-50 corridors -- from Virginia City ($385K) and Dayton ($385K) to Carson City ($525K) and Reno ($575K). Each card pairs the drive time with median price so you can judge whether the extra distance delivers more home or different character.
More Dayton communities
Shopping the whole city? Browse all Dayton homes for sale — live MLS listings updated daily.
A-Z INDEX
Which Dayton and Comstock Corridor Communities Can You Explore A-Z?
Silver City anchors the historic end of the Comstock corridor -- Comstock-era character at $420K. Dayton Valley ($470K) offers golf-course community living 30 minutes southeast; Santa Maria Ranch ($455K) offers new construction in Dayton; and Carson City ($525K) delivers capital-city services 25 minutes southwest.
KEEP LEARNING
What Else Should You Read About Silver City and Northern Nevada?
These guides extend the research most Silver City buyers do next -- comparing Silver City against the Dayton hub and Carson City, exploring Lyon County land-use and Comstock title rules, and understanding how the SR-342 corridor connects $300K canyon homes to Virginia City events and Carson City employers 25 minutes away.
GUIDE
Dayton, NV Real Estate Guide
The Dayton city hub -- Dayton Valley, Santa Maria Ranch, and the full Comstock corridor context for Silver City buyers.
Read →GUIDE
Carson City Real Estate Guide
The state capital 25 minutes southwest -- more services, schools, and how Carson City prices compare to Silver City.
Read →GUIDE
Dayton Valley, Dayton
Dayton's golf-course community along the Carson River -- Dayton Valley Golf Club, Carson River access, and the established SFR market.
Read →RELOCATION GUIDE
Reno and Northern Nevada Relocation Guide
The Northern Nevada move playbook — taxes, cost of living, and neighborhoods.
Read →LIVING GUIDE
Is Reno a Good Place to Live? 2026
Jobs, cost, weather, and lifestyle across Northern Nevada.
Read →Sources & Methodology
Where Does This Silver City Data Come From?
Every statistic on this page is sourced from a primary or government dataset and refreshed monthly. The organizations below -- from the U.S. Census Bureau to the NREG’s analysis of NNRMLS data -- supply the underlying data; follow any link to verify a figure or pull deeper detail.
- NREG analysis of NNRMLS data — Median sold price, days on market, list-to-sold ratio, and monthly MLS statistics for the 89428 ZIP including Silver City. NREG market report
- Northern Nevada Regional MLS (NNRMLS) — Active listings, inventory counts, and neighborhood data for Silver City and the Gold Canyon area. nnrmls.com
- U.S. Census Bureau — Population, demographics, household income, age distribution, and education attainment (ACS) for the Silver City CDP. data.census.gov
- U.S. Census Bureau — Population estimates and change since 2020 for Lyon County (QuickFacts). census.gov/quickfacts
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Reno-Sparks MSA unemployment rate, employment by sector, and wage data accessible to Silver City commuters. bls.gov/reno-sparks
- Lyon County Assessor — Property tax rates, assessed values, parcel data, and historic easement records for Silver City within ZIP 89428. lyon-county.org
- Lyon County School District — School boundary, enrollment, and performance data for Dayton Elementary, Dayton Middle, and Dayton High School serving Silver City. lyoncsd.org
- FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) — Violent and property crime rates for Lyon County and the Reno-Sparks MSA comparative context. fbi.gov/ucr
- GreatSchools.org — K-12 school ratings, test scores, and student-teacher ratios for Lyon County and nearby Carson City schools. greatschools.org
- Nevada Report Card — Official Nevada DOE school performance data for Lyon County School District campuses serving Silver City. nevadareportcard.nv.gov
- Freddie Mac PMMS — Weekly mortgage-rate survey used in the Silver City payment calculator and buy-vs-rent model. freddiemac.com/pmms
- Nevada DMV — Residency deadlines and vehicle registration requirements for Silver City relocation buyers. dmv.nv.gov
Methodology: Listing counts, prices and days on market are NREG's analysis of Northern Nevada Regional MLS data received through the Repliers feed; this page refreshes them about once a day, and each market figure carries its date or window. Census and BLS figures are the published vintage named beside them and change only when the agency releases new estimates. Confirm details for a specific home with its listing and the responsible agency.
Updated: November 2026 · Next update: November 15