Las Cruces, NM
Las Cruces is a mid-sized city located in the southern part of New Mexico, with a population of around 100,000 residents. It is the second-largest city in the state, after Albuquerque. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and diverse culture. Las Cruces is situated in the Mesilla Valley, surrounded by the Organ Mountains to the east and the Doña Ana Mountains to the west. It has a strong agricultural industry and is famous for its chile peppers. The city is also home to New Mexico State University, a leading public research institution that contributes to the region's academic and economic development. Las Cruces has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and cultural events throughout the year.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
Desert Southwest
Population (2020)
111,738
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
30.6
Median Income (2020)
$45,140
Average Home Value (2022)
$275,163
Average Annual Cost of Living
$27,535
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Location: Las Cruces is located in the beautiful Mesilla Valley, surrounded by the Organ Mountains to the east and the Rio Grande to the west. This location offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports.
Diversity: The city is home to a diverse population, with a rich Hispanic culture and a growing number of young professionals and retirees.
Education: Las Cruces is home to New Mexico State University, a top-ranked research university with over 20,000 students.
Economy: The city has a growing economy, with a strong emphasis on science and technology, healthcare, and hospitality.
Community: Las Cruces has a strong sense of community, with numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market and the Whole Enchilada Fiesta.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Poverty: Las Cruces has a higher poverty rate than the national average, with over 20% of residents living below the poverty line.
Crime: While the crime rate in Las Cruces has decreased in recent years, the city still faces challenges related to property crime, drug-related crime, and gang activity.
Education: Despite the presence of a top-ranked university, Las Cruces struggles with low high school graduation rates and achievement gaps.
Water scarcity: Like many cities in the arid Southwest, Las Cruces faces water scarcity issues, with limited water resources and increasing demand.
Transportation: Las Cruces has limited public transportation options, which can be a challenge for residents without access to a car. Additionally, the city is located far from major transportation hubs, such as airports and interstates.