Discover Farmington: A Dynamic Hub in the Four Corners Region

Photo by Brad Ryan

In the heart of the Four Corners region of New Mexico, Farmington punches above its weight in business climate and quality of place. This city of just under 50,000 people, which sees its daytime population more than double on weekends, has created an infrastructure to accommodate that ebb and flow for residents and tourists alike. 

“For the past 10 years, we’ve spent a lot of time and effort raising the bar,” says Warren Unsicker, Farmington’s director of economic development and the outdoor recreation industry initiative. “As a commercial and retail hub for the four-state region, we serve close to 300,000 people. We provide for much greater than just ourselves.” 

On the Map 

Over time, the community has invested heavily in making Farmington a beautiful place to live. The city has over 60 parks, including a surfable standing wave in the river – bringing surfing to the high desert – and has one of the top 10 municipal golf courses in the nation. Brand new parks are coming too, such as an all-abilities park to allow outdoor play for everyone. The city also invested over $12 million in revamping its entire downtown Arts & Cultural District. 

Photo by Brad Ryan

“We’re putting ourselves on the map as a unique destination for visitors, and as a place you want to live and work,” Unsicker says. “We’re seeing more tourists, and they’re staying longer. People who moved away are moving back to Farmington, bringing with them their business and investment dollars.” 

Businesses are taking notice. 

“We are an energy economy,” says Unsicker, “but that’s not all we are. We’re seeing growth and diversification, with target industries like outdoor recreation, health care and value-added agriculture, for example. SasquatchXC, which makes high-end, rugged camper trailers, moved here to access our highly skilled workforce. With that and our myriad outdoor recreation experiences, we are a perfect fit for outdoor manufacturers.” 

A reactivated commercial airport now offers direct flights to Denver, connecting to major hubs, and is also host to a soon-to-be-activated 120-acre industrial park. San Juan College offers degrees and certificates specifically focused on creating workforce-ready graduates and providing customized training to meet business needs. 

On the Move

The influx of new residents from across the country is driving a boom in new housing. Farmington has the region’s critical care hospital, and a second hospital is under construction, offering both care for locals and good jobs. New fiber internet is creating business and residential growth, appealing to location-neutral workers who want to work where they play. There’s growth in professional services companies, as well as expansion among existing companies and manufacturers. 

Courtesy of the City of Farmington

From a new Market Pavilion to a thriving local theater scene and public art displays, Farmington is on the move. “It’s intentional growth,” Unsicker says. “It takes into account the people who live here and our history, and builds on the personality and vibe of the community. It’s a formula that speaks to a lot of people, and the word is getting out!” 

To learn more about Farmington or to plan your trip, visit Farmingtonnm.gov/edd.