Founded in 1849 in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces has agricultural roots but is shooting for the stars with its growing aerospace industry. Long known as the home of New Mexico State University, today Spaceport America and NASA’s nearby White Sands Test Facility have attracted more than just college students to the area. Retirees also move here for its low housing costs and desert climate. “It’s a mid-sized town with a low cost of living,” says Steve Montanez, president and CEO of New Mexico Properties who’s lived here for over 20 years. “People like it because there’s not a metro feel to it, but it’s not too small.”
The Organ Mountains dominate the city’s skyline, and the Rio Grande flows through the city’s west side. Las Cruces’ downtown has seen recent growth, and the neighboring town of Mesilla is home to locals’ favorite restaurants. El Paso, Texas is about 47 miles away. “Las Cruces has a hometown feel,” says Cristal Duran, a lifelong resident and an owner and qualified broker at A-Mountain Realty. “Everyone knows everybody, and people are nice.”
Alameda Depot boast historic homes and charming streetscapes.
Rows and rows of pecan trees can be found in the many orchards in La Mesa.
Sonoma Ranch East residents are just 45 minutes from White Sands National Park.
Mesilla offers quality time for Alameda Depot families, only a short drive away.
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Pueblo Revival-style homes with mountain views
The median home sale price in Las Cruces is $280,000, a little higher than El Paso's $271,000 but lower than the nation's $419,000. “A lot of people live in Las Cruces and commute to El Paso,” says Luis Larrinua, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty who’s sold homes here for 12 years. “The property taxes are less expensive. If you compare your monthly payments, the difference is going to be between $300 and $500 a month.”
Yards here feature low-water plantings, and the Organ Mountains are visible from most neighborhoods. Early- and mid-20th-century ranch-style homes sit close together along gridded streets in the city’s center, with prices ranging from around $130,000 to $525,000. Many have the flat roofs and stucco exteriors of the Pueblo Revival style, but those in midcentury areas often have brick exteriors and shingle roofs.
Late 20th- and early 21st-century homes in neighborhoods like Sonoma Ranch and Picacho Hills typically have Spanish Revival influences like clay-tiled roofs, stucco exteriors and arched doorways. These homes typically sit along suburban cul-de-sacs, with some in gated communities. Prices typically range from about $220,000 to $1.1 million. The Mesquite Historic District's adobe-walled Spanish Colonial date to the early 19th century and rarely come on the market.
Sonoma Ranch East offers beautiful earth-toned homes.
Pueblo Revival-style homes built in the 2000s and 1990s are common in the Villages of Northrise.
The Organ Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for Sonoma Ranch East.
Country Club boasts many classic adobe style homes.
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Near Spaceport America
Spaceport America, the world’s first commercial spaceport, is located about 45 miles from downtown, and NASA operates out of the White Sands Test Facility, 18 miles away. “You can see the launches from the city,” Larrinua says. The Department of Defense’s White Sands Missile Range is also nearby. Doña Ana County, where Las Cruces is located, is the largest pecan-producing county in the U.S., and the green chile, another staple crop, features heavily in the city’s cuisine. “Everywhere you go, everything has green chiles in it,” says Karen Polanco, an associate broker with Berkshire Hathaway who’s sold homes here for 8 years. “Even the McDonalds here has a green chile burger, and Domino’s has green chile pizza.”
Spaceport America is just outside of Las Cruces providing private space travel.
Pecans are a large crop coming out of Las Cruces and is a local favorite.
Las Cruces is home the Fresh Chile Company, providing quality chile to residents.
You will enjoy the hand-crafted pizzas from Dion’s Pizza in High Range.
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The Chile Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University
Local kids can attend Las Cruces Public Schools, which earn a B from Niche. The B-rated Las Cruces High and B-minus-rated Mayfield High have a renowned football rivalry, and their games can bring out thousands of community members to the schools’ shared Field of Dreams football field. High school students can also apply to the A-rated Arrowhead Park Early College High, where they can enroll in STEM or medical pathways and earn an associate degree with their high school diploma.
New Mexico State University is one of the city’s biggest draws, enrolling nearly 15,000 students in over 180 degree programs. As a NASA Space Grant College, the school offers several degrees in space-focused studies. It also houses the world’s only Chile Pepper Institute, dedicated to studying chile peppers. The community is very involved in university events, coming out to watch the NCAA Division I Aggies play sports or celebrate the holidays with the annual Noche de Luminarias.
Students at Las Cruces High can join over 15 sports teams.
At the B-rated Mayfield High, students can join 14 sports teams.
New Mexico State University is a short drive from Tortugas and a very important University.
New Mexico State University is under 2 miles from Las Alturas.
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Dining and entertainment downtown and in nearby Mesilla
Las Cruces’ downtown encompasses several blocks of Main Street near the Mesquite Historic District, the city’s original townsite. “They’ve done a lot of work to the downtown area to revamp it and bring in businesses,” Duran says. On Saturdays, the Farmers and Crafts Market lines Main Street with over 200 vendors selling produce and artisan goods; it was voted New Mexico’s top farmers market by the American Farmland Trust in 2023. The Plaza de Las Cruces here hosts popular events like New Years Eve’s Las Cruces Chile Drop, where a 19-foot chile pepper signals the start of the new year. Downtown is also the home of several museums and theaters, including the Rio Grande Theatre, built in 1926, which shows films, musical performances and plays.
The Mesilla Valley Mall and the area’s largest concentration of national retailers are set around the intersection of Telshor Boulevard and Lohman Avenue. Mesilla, a historic town bordering the city, has some of the community’s longtime favorite restaurants, dating as far back as the 18th century.
Main Street's bars and restaurants are just minutes away from Alameda Depot.
Alameda Depot is just minutes away from the Mesquite Historic District.
Las Cruces Farmer's Market is only minutes away from Alameda Depot.
Mesilla Valley Mall offers 70+ stores only a short drive from Sonoma Ranch.
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Hiking in the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument
Las Cruces has nearly 1,500 acres of parks within sight of the Organ Mountains. The Rio Grande passes through the city’s west side, and Montanez says that it only really flows during the summer irrigation season, when temperatures often top 100 degrees; tubing, swimming and kayaking here are popular ways for locals to cool off. The city’s desert climate grants it around 350 sunny days each year, so locals can take advantage of their proximity to state and national parks. The nearly 500,000-acre Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument nearby has hiking trails that climb Las Cruces’ iconic peaks. About 52 miles away, White Sands National Park is a 275-square-mile stretch of desert spread with bright-white gypsum sand dunes.
La Mesa residents can enjoy a scenic hike on the nearby Tortugas Mountain and it's trails.
The Rio Grande is a large part of Las Cruces bringing water for the farmers and their crops.
The Baylor Pass trailhead begins at the foot of the mountains minutes away from Homestead Acres.
White Sands National Park is about a 50-minute drive from Alameda Depot.
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Along Interstates 25 and 10
Interstate 25 is the main north-south route through the city, leading roughly 47 miles to El Paso. Interstate 10 and Highway 70 run east and west. “You’re probably an hour away from Ruidoso and Cloudcroft, and you’re an hour away from El Paso and Mexico,” Polanco says. Roadrunner Transit has eight fare-free bus routes throughout the city. The Trivitz Multipurpose Trail along I-25 is popular for cyclists, but commuting bike paths and sidewalks are inconsistent. According to the city’s Active Transportation Plan, 98 miles of new bike paths and over 150 miles of sidewalks are in the works to help improve connectivity throughout the city. Las Cruces International Airport, located about 10 miles west of downtown, is a general aviation airport with flights to Albuquerque. For more flight options, El Paso International Airport is a 51-mile trip. Las Cruces’ three largest hospitals are located near I-25.
A higher property crime rate than most of New Mexico
The Las Cruces Police Department reports that violent crime decreased by 8% in 2023, while property crime decreased by 22%. However, the city's rates of violent and property crime remain higher than state and national figures, according to FBI statistics. Most local incidents of crime occurred in the commercial areas near Telshor Boulevard and Lohman Avenue, and in the area around Main Street and Idaho Avenue. The police department employs 220 sworn officers, and the city is in the planning stages to build a public safety complex downtown that will improve policing with new technology and faster response times.
Written By
Annie Franklin
Photography Contributed By
Carlos Luevano
Video By
Aiyshanti Green
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Las Cruces, NM sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Las Cruces, NM over the last 12 months is $284,990, down 31% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this expansive 3,900+ sqft. home, located on a huge 1.6-acre pet friendly lot. Inside, you'll find a bright and spacious layout featuring a large living room, cozy den, and a formal dining room perfect for gatherings. You'll appreciate the BRAND NEW carpet throughout! Families will enjoy the spacious kitchen with plenty of counter top space for cooking, wood cabinets, gas cook top, and
Built in 2022, this custom crafted Arista Home is truly BETTER THAN NEW! It sits on a beautifully landscaped corner lot with a full irrigation system and breathtaking Organ Mountain views. Lightly lived in, this home features vaulted ceilings, skylights, and an abundance of windows that flood the space with natural light. The open living area is anchored by a cozy fireplace and a stunning
Welcome to your own private paradise in the heart of the desert! This 4-bedroom, 5-bathroom masterpiece features soaring 16-ft ceilings, six fireplaces, and sweeping views from nearly every room. Designed for both grand entertaining and serene living, the home has multiple living areas, a full bar, and a spacious entertainment room. The gourmet kitchen flows seamlessly into open-concept spaces.
Welcome to this expansive 3,900+ sqft. home, located on a huge 1.6-acre pet friendly lot. Inside, you'll find a bright and spacious layout featuring a large living room, cozy den, and a formal dining room perfect for gatherings. You'll appreciate the BRAND NEW carpet throughout! Families will enjoy the spacious kitchen with plenty of counter top space for cooking, wood cabinets, gas cook top, and
One of the best Las Cruces has to offer in Mesa Grande Estates! You'll enter the property into a private gated courtyard with mature plantings and a lovely porch. Inside this meticulously cared for 3 bed 2 bath home, you are greeted with vaulted tray ceilings, an inviting gas fireplace and an adjoining kitchen that doesn't disappoint, complete with a gorgeous quartz island. The spacious primary
Beautiful home with great potential! Come see this 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath, single-story townhome situated on a spacious .33-acre corner lot. With 1,657 sq. ft. of living space, this property offers plenty of room to make it your own.The outdoor space is perfect for enjoying New Mexico's sunshine -- featuring a large backyard with a pool, covered patio, side yard with covered porch, and a
Experience the best of Las Cruces living in this Sonoma Ranch Stunner! Situated on a large corner lot with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a Sparkling Heated Pool, Hot Tub and gorgeous Outdoor Kitchen, this home has something for everyone. This Beauty has serious curb appeal, with a Xeriscaped exterior teaming with native plants so you will enjoy flowers nearly year-round. Step inside and enjoy large
Discover this beautifully updated Southwestern home near Radium Springs. This 1530 sq. ft. single family residence sits on a spacious 1.26-acre lot and boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a cozy great room with a fireplace. Enjoy a modern kitchen with granite counters, and energy-efficient solar panels. The property offers stunning mountain views and a detached 2-car garage. With refrigerated central
Experience the charm of the Historic Mesquite District in this beautifully preserved adobe home offering both warmth and versatility. Thick adobe walls, exposed wood vigas, hardwood flooring, and classic Southwestern character. Solar panels, wired security cameras, and thoughtful updates add efficiency and peace of mind. Positioned on a corner lot, this property provides true mixed-use potential,
Beautifully updated 4-bed, 3-bath home on a spacious lot with mountain views! This 3319 square foot home features a large living room with flagstone fireplace, a 43' x 15' family room with hardwood floors and wood stove, plus an office/study. The kitchen boasts granite counters, custom cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Professionally remodeled in 2008 with new roof, Low-E windows, HVAC,
Bright, Spacious & Move-In Ready!This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. All three bedrooms are generously sized, giving everyone the space they need to relax and recharge.You'll love the bright, open feel throughout, thanks to plenty of natural light streaming in through large windows. The spacious kitchen offers ample cabinet
Welcome to your dream home in highly sought-after Sonoma Ranch. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condominium offers 2,146 sq. ft. of comfortable and stylish living space with an effortless, low-maintenance lifestyle on a corner lot and community pool.Step inside to an open and inviting floor plan filled with natural light. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a spa-like ensuite
Built in 2022, this custom crafted Arista Home is truly BETTER THAN NEW! It sits on a beautifully landscaped corner lot with a full irrigation system and breathtaking Organ Mountain views. Lightly lived in, this home features vaulted ceilings, skylights, and an abundance of windows that flood the space with natural light. The open living area is anchored by a cozy fireplace and a stunning
Nestled on the corner of Calle del Norte and Snow Road, this 10.85-acre Mesilla property blends adobe charm, modern comfort, and natural beauty. The estate includes two adobe homes: the first (mostly adobe home) is approx. 1,556 sq. ft. with 2 bedrooms, an office, refrigerated air, and wood floors. The second is approx. 2,100 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, cove ceilings, and an attached 4,300
Elegant 3-Bedroom Estate with Office, Pool & Panoramic Views in Picacho Hills. Welcome to 6652 Vista Hermosa--an exceptional 5,042 sq ft custom home perched on a premium view lot in the prestigious Picacho Hills Golf Course community. This thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence includes a dedicated office, workout room, and wet bar, offering an elevated lifestyle in one of Las
A rare rental opportunity in Las Cruces, NM! This beautifully designed 4-unit property offers spacious two-story living, with each unit featuring 1,666 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a double-car garage. Enjoy a small yard and stylish tile flooring throughout every room. The modern kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Located in the
Welcome to your next home in the vibrant new community of Metro Verde! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offers 1,635 square feet of open-concept living. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into a stylish kitchen featuring a modern color palette, quartz countertops, a center island, pantry, and stainless steel appliances. Perfect for entertaining or everyday living.
: Newly Renovated 2-Bedroom Apartment for Rent at 1306 Wyoming Unit 4, Las Cruces, NM! This charming 900 sq ft unit features modern upgrades throughout, including an updated kitchen with new appliances, fresh flooring, and in-unit laundry hookups. The spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath layout offers plenty of natural light and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Located in a quiet neighborhood, it's just
This beautifully designed home offers a smart and efficient layout with generous living space, featuring up to four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and an attached two-car garage--ideal for households seeking comfort and flexibility. From the moment you walk in, you'll notice the bright and airy feel created by the open floor plan that connects the main living room, dining area, and kitchen into
Welcome to a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 2-car garage offering 1,388 sq ft of comfortable and functional living space in the highly sought-after Metro Verde community. This turn-key property features brand new tile flooring, new carpet in the bedrooms, and fresh interior paint throughout, giving the home a clean and modern feel. The open-concept great room creates an
Brand-New 3BD/2BA Home in Parkhill Estates - $2,300/moDiscover modern Las Cruces living in this beautiful new construction home located in the friendly, inviting community of Parkhill Estates. This open-concept layout features a spacious living area, brand-new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and plenty of natural light throughout. The primary suite offers a relaxing retreat with a
This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers comfort, style, and convenience in a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood. The spacious open-concept living area features recessed lighting and ceiling fans throughout, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen is equipped with a large center island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a classic subway
Finding apartments in Las Cruces for rent has never been easier! Casas de Soledad is in the heart of Sonoma Ranch, located just off U.S. Hwy 85. We are the only golf course community in Las Cruces, with easy access to an array of fine-dining restaurants. Located near Mesilla Valley Mall, New Mexico State University, Desert Trails Community Park, and entertainment hot spots, Casas de Soledad is
Introducing a sleek and sophisticated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom modern rental home located in the prestigious Bellagio Villas at Sonoma Ranch. Built in 2026, this newly constructed residence features cutting-edge design and smart home technology for modern convenience and enhanced security. Enjoy keyless entry, high-efficiency appliances, and all-LED lighting throughout. The open-concept layout
Welcome home to Park Place Apartment Homes situated in Las Cruces, New Mexico, conveniently located just off the I-25 and University Avenue allowing for a smooth commute anywhere you want to be including NMSU. You will find medical centers, parks and trails and open spaces all around you here at Park Place. We offer one, two and three bedroom apartment homes featuring some paid
Introducing a sleek and sophisticated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom modern rental home located in the prestigious Bellagio Villas at Sonoma Ranch. Built in 2026, this newly constructed residence features cutting-edge design and smart home technology for modern convenience and enhanced security. Enjoy keyless entry, high-efficiency appliances, and all-LED lighting throughout. The open-concept layout
Brand new complex with easy access to the highway, walking trails, and community parks. Each unit is designed to feel like you are in a custom built home with high ceilings, built in shelving, and high end appliances (washer, dryer, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, full size fridge, and range included in rental price). We also make your move-in and monthly bills simple with our all
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