Largest cities in New Mexico

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

New Mexico, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 2.1 million, it ranks as the 36th most populated state in the U.S. New Mexico has experienced moderate population growth, driven by its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Colorado to the north, Oklahoma and Texas to the east, Mexico to the south, and Arizona to the west, New Mexico offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 106 cities and towns.

Living in New Mexico provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, a mild climate, and a rich cultural scene. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. New Mexico's economy is diverse, with strengths in energy, agriculture, and tourism. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in New Mexico, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of New Mexico cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Albuquerque Population: 579,406 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 485 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,095 Med. Household Income: $80,299

Albuquerque, NM, known as 'The Duke City,' offers a unique blend of Southwestern charm and urban sophistication. Located in central New Mexico, Albuquerque is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Santa Fe and Rio Rancho enhance its status as a central point in the region. Albuquerque's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Las Cruces Population: 106,024 Livability Score: 59

Area Size: 199 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,378 Med. Household Income: $66,606

Las Cruces, New Mexico, known as "The City of the Crosses," is a picturesque and historic community located near El Paso, Texas. With its rich cultural heritage, strong local economy, and welcoming community, Las Cruces offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of suburban tranquility and urban amenities makes living in Las Cruces an attractive option for families and professionals.

Rio Rancho Population: 100,592 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 268 KM² Density (sq mi): 973 Med. Household Income: $100,622

Rio Rancho, NM, known as 'The City of Vision,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Sandoval County, Rio Rancho is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Albuquerque (16 miles) and Santa Fe (55 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Rio Rancho's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Santa Fe Population: 86,648 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 135 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,660 Med. Household Income: $85,829

Living in Santa Fe, NM offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as 'The City Different,' Santa Fe is renowned for its rich artistic heritage, adobe architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The cityâ€™s historic Plaza is a focal point of activity, surrounded by galleries, museums, and shops that showcase the best of Southwestern art and culture.

Roswell Population: 49,357 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,663 Med. Household Income: $67,084

Farmington Population: 46,071 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 89 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,338 Med. Household Income: $84,140

South Valley Population: 40,361 Livability Score: 60

Area Size: 75 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,391 Med. Household Income: $62,616

Clovis Population: 39,532 Livability Score: 56

Area Size: 61 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,674 Med. Household Income: $70,538

Hobbs Population: 39,472 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 68 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,495 Med. Household Income: $84,572

Alamogordo Population: 32,584 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 56 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,520 Med. Household Income: $67,814

Full list of the largest cities in New Mexico

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Albuquerque	579,406	485	$80,299	72
2	Las Cruces	106,024	199	$66,606	59
3	Rio Rancho	100,592	268	$100,622	71
4	Santa Fe	86,648	135	$85,829	74
5	Roswell	49,357	77	$67,084	75
6	Farmington	46,071	89	$84,140	66
7	South Valley	40,361	75	$62,616	60
8	Clovis	39,532	61	$70,538	56
9	Hobbs	39,472	68	$84,572	66
10	Alamogordo	32,584	56	$67,814	77
11	Carlsbad	30,034	76	$102,852	70
12	Gallup	22,253	49	$68,638	71
13	Sunland Park	18,197	34	$49,445	59
14	Los Lunas	16,172	48	$87,529	66
15	Deming	14,383	42	$42,089	63
16	Chaparral	14,155	153	$45,796	45
17	North Valley	13,861	18	$79,026	67
18	Las Vegas	13,406	20	$46,739	70
19	Los Alamos	13,326	29	$170,572	81
20	Artesia	12,890	26	$82,617	63
21	Portales	12,084	21	$62,406	64
22	Lovington	11,822	29	$91,242	66
23	Bernalillo	10,437	13	$75,686	59
24	Española	10,349	20	$54,611	73
25	Silver City	9,895	26	$46,485	78
26	Anthony	9,529	7	$41,534	53
27	Grants	9,333	39	$66,957	60
28	Corrales	8,837	28	$127,863	56
29	Shiprock	8,762	35	$55,158	55
30	Socorro	8,717	37	$64,374	65
31	Ruidoso	8,058	42	$64,140	66
32	Bloomfield	8,020	49	$75,082	55
33	Belen	7,771	21	$52,658	63
34	Zuni Pueblo	7,030	23	$64,892	59
35	Santa Teresa	6,706	26	$78,398	63
36	Aztec	6,661	32	$66,161	61
37	Edgewood	6,322	126	$104,411	67
38	Los Ranchos de Albuquerque	6,300	12	$92,474	66
39	Raton	6,164	21	$49,292	69
40	Taos	6,117	15	$46,206	65
41	White Rock	6,052	18	$192,502	80
42	North Hobbs	5,997	67	$105,196	72
43	Truth or Consequences	5,976	73	$42,877	65
44	Eldorado at Santa Fe	5,683	54	$114,913	60
45	Lee Acres	5,530	34	$69,338	53
46	Los Chaves	5,075	27	$102,549	59
47	Paradise Hills	5,043	3	$78,934	66

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in New Mexico, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.