5 Best Small Towns in New Mexico
Explore some of the best (and most enchanting!) small towns in New Mexico.
Looking to make your move to New Mexico? These five cities are just waiting to be explored.
In This Article
1. Tucumcari
In the northeast portion of the state is Tucumcari, home to Mesalands Community College, which features a dinosaur museum. Tucumcari has more than 1,200 hotel rooms because it is a long-time popular stop for travelers along Route 66.
The city’s downtown is highlighted by more than 50 murals painted on district buildings. In addition, Tucumcari has quite a few popular independent restaurants, including Kix on 66, Watson’s BBQ and Del’s Restaurant.
The median home value here is a comfortable $92,000 (Zillow, August 2022).
2. Chama
This village in the north-central part of the state is along the Rocky Mountains, about seven miles south of the New Mexico-Colorado border. The historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers train rides from Memorial Day weekend to mid-October, showcasing rugged mountain views around Chama.
Chama welcomes visitors, especially in the winter months, thanks to multiple opportunities to enjoy cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. During your visit, stay at one of the many bed-and-breakfasts available. Other outdoor recreation options include fishing local trout streams and lakes and hiking and mountain biking along many trails — including the Continental Divide Trail.
The median home value in Chama is $222,000 (Zillow, August 2022).
3. Silver City
Officially classified as a town, Silver City is in southwest New Mexico and has a population nearing 10,000 residents. Several large festivals are hosted in Silver City, including Chicano Music Festival, Red Hot Children’s Fiesta and Red Paint Powwow.
The climate here includes clear mountain air, low humidity and four distinct seasons. Silver City is nestled against the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest and several area lakes. In addition, Silver City is home to Western New Mexico University, and many musicians and artists reside in the downtown district, which features about 30 galleries and art studios, along with buildings graced by beautiful murals.
The median home value is around $209,000 (Zillow, August 2022).
4. Artesia
Developed largely by money from the oil and gas industry, the economy of Artesia today is also bolstered by the agriculture, dairy and tourism sectors. This southeast New Mexico city of 12,500 residents offers year-round sunshine without pollution or traffic congestion.
Popular recreation destinations for residents include an aquatic center, along with Baish Park and Jaycee Park. In addition, the community has recently invested heavily in its downtown area, which is now classified as a New Mexico MainStreet District.
The median home value in Artesia is $297,000 (Zillow, August 2022).
5. Bloomfield
In the northwest portion of the state is Bloomfield, with a population estimated at around 7,800 residents. The city’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in oil and gas, alternative energy, retail and tourism, and more than 400 companies making up the business community.
The San Juan River courses along the city’s boundary and provides excellent fishing, kayaking and canoeing recreation. In addition, Bloomfield is an ideal center point to visit nearby attractions like Quality Waters, Navajo Lake State Park, Angel Peak Scenic Area and Salmon Ruins & Heritage Park.
The median home value is $184,000 (Zillow, August 2022).
Want to know more?
To learn more about New Mexico, check out the latest edition of New Mexico Economic Development.
