Elko, Nevada (KMVT-TV) The state of Nevada has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country, almost 13 percent.

The all time high of gold prices has created many new mining jobs in Northern Nevada.

"Elko historically we've had mining here for a long time and the mining sector lately has been very strong. They do a lot of exploration with the exploration new development and new gold mines” said Delmo Andreozzi, Assistant City Manager Elko.

Elko serves as the center of Nevada’s gold rush.

"Because of the proximity to the city of Elko and even to the region the mining industry is a big industry with the price of gold and exploration and the mining that happens around here” said Delmo Andreozzi, Assistant City Manager Elko.

The two largest mining companies in the town aren't the only ones banking on the gold boom.
Local restaurants are seeing an increase in sales.

"The mining business has really been a big boom for us; our sales are quite a bit more and consistent year round” said John Lemich, Owner of Machis.

The past two years the city has seen a growth in population currently there are more than 19,000 residents.

"Commercial development continues to go on remodeling, multifamily housing projects a lot of things in the cue. I think some of the issue that faced nationally we have some financial constraints” said Delmo Andreozzi, Assistant City Manager Elko.

The unanswered question, how long will the gold rush last in Elko and will it save Nevada’s economy.