Reno, Nevada Area Info
History
The township of Reno was founded in 1868 when
Myron Lake, landowner and entrepreneur, offered 80 acres of his land as
a town site to the Central Pacific Railroad in exchange for a train
station at his crossing. Within a month, trains were running six days a
week through Reno, a depot hotel was opened for business, and a post
office was established. Lake's Crossing was the first name for the Reno
area. In 1903, Reno was incorporated, named after Civil War General
Jesse Reno. In 1928, Reno celebrated the completion of the
transcontinental highway system by revealing the first lighted "Biggest
Little City in the World" arch. Once known for its ability to offer
"quickie" divorces, Reno is now a hot spot for marriages, and many
people travel here to initiate their nuptials.
Today the Reno area is known for more than just
world-class entertainment, excellent dining and exceptional weather.
It's also famous for being one of the nation's most desirable places to
reside. With a tax and business climate as agreeable as the weather
itself, it's no wonder so many individuals and companies are moving to
the area.
Physical Environment
Located in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains,
and minutes away from Lake Tahoe, the Reno community sits at 4,400 feet
above sea level and is surrounded by natural beauty and limitless
recreational opportunities. The Reno region has access to over 16
alpine ski resorts and over 40 golf courses.
Business Environment
The Reno area sees an average of 6,000 new jobs
per year, and wages outpace inflation by 13 percent. Thirty-three
Fortune 500 companies have a significant presence in Northern Nevada.
These companies represent a range of top multi-national brands that
have chosen Reno/Sparks/Lake Tahoe in which to do business because of
Nevada's tax-friendly environment and unparalleled quality of life.
Climate
While a summer afternoon high may exceed 90
degrees, a light jacket or sweater is often needed after sunset. Nights
with low temperatures over 60 degrees are rare. Afternoon temperatures
in the winter are moderate. This mild climate and abundant sunshine
allow for full time access to recreation and make Reno an attractive
year-round destination.
Population
Reno: 180,480
Sparks: 66,346
All of Washoe County: 333,486
Elevation
Reno is at an elevation of 4,400 feet (1,341
meters) above mean sea level. To the West, the Sierra rises from
elevations of 9,000 feet (2,743 meters) to 11,000 feet (3,352 meters)
feet. Lower mountains to the East reach 6,000 feet (1,828 meters) to
7,000 feet (2,133 meters).
Notable Rankings
- Ranked 2 as the "Best State for Business" (Chief Executive Magazine 01/01/06)
- Ranked 3 among the "Best Places to Live" (Men's Journal 03/16/05)
- Ranked top 3 "Hot Residential Markets" (Forbes Magazine 03/01/04)
- Ranked 3 in the nation for "Growth in Women-owned Firms" (Center for Women's Business Research (04/28/04)
- Ranked in the top 5 "Best States for Business" (Development Counselors of New York 09/20/05)
- Ranked 21 in the "Best Performing Cities" (Milken Institute 02/01/2006)
Size
Total Area: 85 square miles
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