Las Cruces’ Hold on 2nd Place in New Mexico Is in Jeopardy

Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, is currently home to 560,274 residents. It sits well ahead of Las Cruces, which ranks second in the state with 114,892 residents, but Albuquerque’s neighbor, El Paso, Texas, with 678,958 residents, is still a much larger city. However, this population gap may not remain for long, as Rio Rancho, located just outside Albuquerque, is rapidly catching up.

With a population of 110,660 according to the 2023 U.S. Census, Rio Rancho is experiencing impressive growth, particularly in the past few decades. The city’s development began in the 1980s, but it was the 1990s that saw the real boom, as younger residents began flocking to Rio Rancho for a quieter alternative to Albuquerque’s bustling urban life.

At the current pace, Rio Rancho could surpass Las Cruces as New Mexico’s second-largest city sooner rather than later. With just about 4,300 residents separating them, it’s looking increasingly likely that Rio Rancho will claim the #2 spot.

Rio Rancho offers plenty for its residents, including parks, breweries, art galleries, and hiking opportunities. For those craving a bit more excitement, Albuquerque is just 20 miles away, offering an easy escape to city life. If the growth continues, Rio Rancho could soon be the new #2 in New Mexico, challenging Las Cruces for that coveted position.

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