New Mexico’s 2nd Largest City May Shift Sooner Than You Think

Albuquerque continues to hold the title of New Mexico’s largest city, boasting a population of 560,274 residents. That places it ahead of El Paso’s neighbor, Las Cruces, and keeps it firmly in the top spot for now. But change is on the horizon, and Las Cruces may soon lose its rank as the state’s second-largest city.

Albuquerque and the Population Gap

While Albuquerque is home to over half a million people, it’s still smaller than El Paso, Texas, which has a population of 678,958. The difference between the two cities is roughly equivalent to the entire population of Las Cruces, which currently stands at 114,892. However, it’s not Albuquerque that Las Cruces should be worried about—it’s Rio Rancho.

Rio Rancho: The Rising Star

Sitting just outside Albuquerque, Rio Rancho is rapidly growing and quickly closing in on Las Cruces. According to the 2023 U.S. Census, Rio Rancho now has 110,660 residents, leaving just 4,300 people between it and overtaking Las Cruces for the #2 spot in New Mexico. At its current growth rate, Rio Rancho’s rise to second place appears inevitable—and could happen much sooner than expected.

A Look at Rio Rancho’s Growth

Rio Rancho’s explosive development began in the 1980s and gained significant momentum during the 1990s. This growth was driven largely by younger residents seeking a quieter alternative to the bustling life of Albuquerque. Today, the city offers an appealing blend of suburban charm and accessibility to big-city amenities, with Albuquerque just 20 miles away.

The city’s attractions include parks, breweries, art galleries, hiking trails, and more. These amenities, coupled with affordable living, make Rio Rancho an increasingly popular choice for New Mexico residents.

What Does This Mean for Las Cruces?

With Rio Rancho’s growth showing no signs of slowing, Las Cruces’ status as the state’s second-largest city is on shaky ground. The margin between the two cities is so narrow that Rio Rancho could surpass Las Cruces almost immediately, solidifying its place as New Mexico’s second-largest city.

Final Thoughts

As Rio Rancho climbs the ranks, Las Cruces may soon find itself in third place. While Albuquerque’s reign as New Mexico’s largest city remains unchallenged for now, the shifting population dynamics in the state underscore the growing appeal of cities like Rio Rancho. Whether you’re drawn to Rio Rancho’s suburban lifestyle or the historic charm of Las Cruces, one thing is certain: New Mexico’s cities are evolving rapidly.

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