Largest cities in New Mexico

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: 560,447 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 485 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,993 Med. Household Income: $53,936

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: 102,950 Livability Score: 60

Area Size: 199 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,338 Med. Household Income: $45,140

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: 97,976 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 268 KM² Density (sq mi): 948 Med. Household Income: $66,733

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: 84,418 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 135 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,616 Med. Household Income: $57,274

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Roswell Population: 47,751 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,607 Med. Household Income: $45,493

Farmington Population: 44,967 Livability Score: 63

Area Size: 89 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,305 Med. Household Income: $56,576

South Valley Population: 39,150 Livability Score: 58

Area Size: 75 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,349 Med. Household Income: $41,537

Clovis Population: 38,701 Livability Score: 58

Area Size: 61 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,638 Med. Household Income: $47,794

Hobbs Population: 38,475 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 68 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,457 Med. Household Income: $57,646

Alamogordo Population: 31,635 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 56 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,479 Med. Household Income: $45,786

Full list of the largest cities in New Mexico

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Albuquerque	560,447	485	$53,936	72
2	Las Cruces	102,950	199	$45,140	60
3	Rio Rancho	97,976	268	$66,733	69
4	Santa Fe	84,418	135	$57,274	74
5	Roswell	47,751	77	$45,493	74
6	Farmington	44,967	89	$56,576	63
7	South Valley	39,150	75	$41,537	58
8	Clovis	38,701	61	$47,794	58
9	Hobbs	38,475	68	$57,646	65
10	Alamogordo	31,635	56	$45,786	71
11	Carlsbad	29,278	76	$69,786	70
12	Gallup	21,637	49	$45,754	69
13	Sunland Park	17,581	34	$33,342	58
14	Los Lunas	15,814	48	$59,636	65
15	Deming	14,083	42	$28,463	63
16	Chaparral	13,744	153	$31,186	45
17	North Valley	13,331	18	$52,654	66
18	Las Vegas	13,055	20	$30,877	66
19	Los Alamos	12,978	29	$114,034	81
20	Artesia	12,463	26	$56,503	64
21	Portales	11,713	21	$41,507	66
22	Lovington	11,400	29	$60,401	66
23	Bernalillo	10,077	13	$50,528	56
24	Española	10,071	20	$37,206	72
25	Silver City	9,530	26	$30,821	76
26	Anthony	9,283	7	$27,625	52
27	Grants	8,987	39	$44,122	62
28	Corrales	8,636	28	$84,398	56
29	Shiprock	8,588	35	$36,747	54
30	Socorro	8,406	37	$43,337	63
31	Ruidoso	7,879	42	$43,847	64
32	Bloomfield	7,791	49	$50,450	56
33	Belen	7,476	21	$35,448	63
34	Zuni Pueblo	6,822	23	$44,033	58
35	Santa Teresa	6,553	26	$51,726	63
36	Aztec	6,467	32	$44,018	60
37	Los Ranchos de Albuquerque	6,120	12	$62,261	67
38	Edgewood	6,113	126	$68,766	67
39	Raton	6,020	21	$32,440	71
40	Taos	5,950	15	$30,709	65
41	North Hobbs	5,860	67	$71,272	71
42	White Rock	5,845	18	$128,723	80
43	Truth or Consequences	5,839	73	$28,250	70
44	Eldorado at Santa Fe	5,510	54	$77,576	59
45	Lee Acres	5,318	34	$46,875	52

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.