Las Cruces, NM


50 Reviews



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Las Cruces, NM

About Las Cruces, NM

Las Cruces, New Mexico is a vibrant city located in Dona Ana County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Las Cruces has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Dripping Springs Natural Area and the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Museum of Art or the Double Eagle ll Historic Site. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Jazzy Bar & Grille or La Posta de Mesilla. With so much to offer, Las Cruces is an ideal destination for a memorable experience! Moderate-size metro area set in the desert and mountains of the Southwest. Primary industries include education and agriculture. Also known as a college town. - Situated in southern New Mexico, near the Organ Mountains, 45 miles northwest of El Paso, Texas, and 220 miles south of Albuquerque..

Location Details

State: New Mexico
County: Dona Ana County
Metro Area: Las Cruces Metro Area
City: Las Cruces
Zip Codes: 88001 88011 88005 88012 88007
Cost of Living: -16.5% lower
Time zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)
Elevation: 3907 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Las Cruces

Las Cruces, NM, located in southern New Mexico near the Mexico border, is a city with a deep history and unique geography. It's an area where Native American traditions, Spanish heritage, and the spirit of the Old West merge together. Founded in 1849, Las Cruces has grown from a small settlement to the second-largest city in New Mexico, offering a blend of cultural influences and a gateway to natural wonders.

The city sits in the Mesilla Valley, cradled by the Organ Mountains to the east and the Rio Grande to the west. This positioning gives Las Cruces a picturesque landscape, characterized by desert expanses and rugged mountain vistas. The climate here is arid, featuring hot summers and mild winters, perfect for those who enjoy clear, sunny skies most days of the year.

Economically, Las Cruces is supported by a mix of agriculture, education, healthcare, and government sectors. Agriculture thrives with crops like pecans and chile peppers, thanks to the fertile soil along the Rio Grande. New Mexico State University, located right in Las Cruces, is a hub for education and research, contributing significantly to the local economy and culture.

In terms of politics, Las Cruces tends to lean towards the Democratic Party. However, the area does exhibit a range of political beliefs among its residents, reflecting its diverse population. The city's community is known for being engaged and active in local and national elections.

Living in Las Cruces offers a lifestyle that combines outdoor adventure with cultural richness. Residents have access to numerous hiking and biking trails in the nearby Organ Mountains, as well as activities on the Rio Grande. The city also boasts a lively arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and festivals celebrating everything from music to local cuisine. Speaking of food, newcomers should definitely try local dishes that incorporate green chile – a staple ingredient in New Mexican cuisine.

New residents moving to Las Cruces should be ready for the desert climate, which means hot summers and relatively low annual rainfall. It's important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen. The community in Las Cruces is welcoming, with a strong sense of pride in their city's heritage and natural beauty. The cost of living is generally lower than in many other U.S. cities, making it an appealing place for families, students, and retirees alike.

In summary, Las Cruces, NM, provides a unique living experience where history, nature, and culture intersect. It's a place where new residents can enjoy the tranquility of the desert, engage with a vibrant community, and explore a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and outdoor activities.

Las Cruces Cost of Living
$$$$

Reasonable home cost, college town, and very low humidity make Las Cruces a great place to live.

$269,700
-25.4% lower than avg
$47,722
-44.6% lower than avg
$990 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-44.4% lower than avg
Las Cruces Crime
64.2 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Las Cruces, New Mexico
$51,840
for a family
$34,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Las Cruces
   Reasonable home cost
High property crime
   College town
Isolated
   Very low humidity
Summer heat
Reviews for Las Cruces
    See all (50)

I've lived in Las Cruces for six months now. Before moving here I was in Albuquerque (3 hrs north) for four years and before that I lived in Northern Utah most of my  More

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Over 1 years ago

Las Cruces is a hidden gem! Homes are still affordable, you're not far from bigger city entertainment/transportation, and the scenery in beautiful. It's not all dry  More

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Over 3 years ago

It depends on what you are looking for; for me Las Cruces is and ideal place. I am retired and the kind of places I seek to live in have changed over the years. I have  More

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