In recent months, Carson City has made significant strides in enhancing its economic landscape. Beginning in December, the Carson City Community Development Department began restructuring, driven by directions from the Board of Supervisors. This restructuring included bringing the building department in-house and introducing an economic development component aimed at bolstering the local economy.
Interestingly, amidst these internal changes, Carson City received an impressive acknowledgment in an economic report published by Area Development in collaboration with Chmura Economics & Analytics. The findings for 2025 placed Carson City at the top of the list for economic strength among 30 U.S. regions. This report evaluated various metrics, including job growth, unemployment trends, and advanced industry output for 2025, showcasing the capital city’s resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges.
As categorized as a small metro area, Carson City’s achievement is particularly noteworthy when compared to larger cities like Las Vegas, which ranked seventh in the mega metro category. The report highlighted a transformative shift in economic measures, stating, “Competitiveness is no longer measured by population or skyline — it’s defined by how well a region aligns its people, policies and possibilities.”
Commenting on this impressive feat, Governor Joe Lombardo emphasized the momentum behind Carson City’s success, stating, “From Las Vegas to Carson City, Nevada is creating an economy that works for residents, supports local businesses, and keeps our communities strong as we grow.” This sentiment reflects a broader vision for economic development in Nevada — one that prioritizes sustainability and community resilience.
As of February 10, 2025, the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation reported Carson City’s unemployment rate at a commendable 4 percent (non-seasonally adjusted), marking a decline of 0.7 percent from the previous year. Furthermore, the total employment in the city stood at 29,161 individuals, an increase of 1,349 from the previous year. Such statistics underscore a robust job market and signify a positive trend in the city’s economic health.
In fiscal year 2025, ending June 30, taxable sales also witnessed a positive trend, rising by 1 percent from approximately $1.69 billion to $1.71 billion. However, despite these encouraging signs, Carson City continues to face certain economic challenges that require strategic attention.
As part of updating the city’s master plan, adopted on May 1, both planning commissioners and supervisors recognized the necessity of having an economic development champion — a dedicated local liaison for the business community. Enter Hope Sullivan, who has dedicated 10 years to working with the city and was appointed as the director of Community Development in 2021. Her recent promotion to director of Community and Economic Development reflects the city’s commitment to proactive and integrated economic strategies.
With over 35 years of land use planning experience, Sullivan combines her expertise in both public and private sectors with a master’s degree in regional planning focused on land use management. Her appointment symbolizes a pivot towards a more cohesive approach to economic development, bridging the gap between policy-making and community engagement.
Sullivan’s desire to assume the economic development role sprang from a vision to foster connections among existing businesses and address their specific needs. “It would be interesting; it would be fun to work with businesses, to work with the other economic development groups in the city,” she remarked in a recent interview. This sentiment highlights her enthusiasm for creating a network of support for local businesses throughout Carson City.
As the city transitioned from relying on an external contractor for building inspections to appointing an in-house building official, Sullivan is keenly focused on revitalizing vacant buildings and repurposing them in ways that meet community needs. In doing so, she emphasizes the importance of engaging local stakeholders and involving them in the decision-making process.
One of her immediate priorities is examining and potentially reducing parking requirements in Redevelopment Area 1, particularly in downtown Carson City. Sullivan recognizes that maintaining the area’s historical character while promoting economic viability requires careful consideration of existing regulations. She is slated to hold public meetings in late February to gather community input on these matters, demonstrating her commitment to inclusive governance.
Sullivan advocates for a more diverse housing portfolio within the city, particularly focusing on affordable options for first-time homebuyers. As median sales prices for a single-family home in Carson hover around $480,750, with townhomes priced at approximately $256,000, she believes expanding the availability of townhomes is essential. “People need homeownership,” she emphasized, expressing a desire to create affordable pathways that enable individuals to put down roots within the community.
Her vision includes crafting opportunities for small infill projects, emphasizing that townhomes should include backyards suitable for children and pets. Sullivan acknowledges that while there may be resistance from proponents of traditional single-family neighborhoods, affordable housing options represent crucial investments in a community that deserves revitalization.
Ultimately, Hope Sullivan’s approach reflects a broader narrative of economic development that intertwines housing, community engagement, and inclusive growth. She envisions a Carson City where residents have access to diverse opportunities — both in their careers and their living arrangements — ensuring that anyone can thrive in this vibrant community.