Moving to Las Cruces, NM
$270K median homes, White Sands Missile Range, NMSU campus, and El Paso amenities 45 minutes away. The Borderplex's best-kept secret.
$270K
Median Home
215K
Metro Population
350
Sunny Days
0.65%
Property Tax
Living in Las Cruces
Las Cruces is New Mexico's second-largest city and part of the Borderplex region — a tri-state, bi-national economic zone with El Paso, TX and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. The city offers small-town charm with access to big-city amenities (El Paso's airport, shopping, and medical centers are 45 minutes away). New Mexico State University anchors the local economy alongside White Sands Missile Range, Spaceport America (Virgin Galactic), and a growing healthcare sector. The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument provides stunning desert landscapes. The farmer's market is one of the best in the Southwest. Housing is remarkably affordable — $270K median with some of the lowest property taxes in the nation.
Top Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Picacho Hills | Upscale, views, golf | $350K-$600K | Retirees, professionals |
| Sonoma Ranch | Master-planned, family | $280K-$450K | Families |
| Mesilla | Historic, charming, dining | $250K-$400K | History lovers, foodies |
| East Mesa | New construction, affordable | $220K-$330K | First-time buyers |
| University Area | Student-friendly, walkable | $180K-$280K | Investors, students |
| Telshor/Roadrunner | Central, shopping, suburban | $250K-$380K | Convenience seekers |
Pros & Cons of Las Cruces
✅ Pros
- ✓ Incredibly affordable ($270K median)
- ✓ 350 sunny days per year
- ✓ El Paso amenities 45 min away
- ✓ NMSU & White Sands employment
- ✓ Organ Mountains National Monument
- ✓ Lowest property taxes in US (~0.65%)
- ✓ Strong agricultural community
⚠️ Cons
- ✗ State income tax (1.7-5.9%)
- ✗ Smaller job market
- ✗ Limited nightlife/entertainment
- ✗ Water scarcity concerns
- ✗ Wind storms in spring
- ✗ Far from major metro areas
Financing in Las Cruces
- USDA-eligible — most of Las Cruces qualifies for $0 down USDA loans
- VA loans — significant military community (White Sands, Fort Bliss nearby)
- NM MFA down payment assistance for first-time buyers
- Property taxes among lowest in US at ~0.65%
- El Paso mortgage rates apply — cross-state comparison recommended