New Mexico is a state in the southwestern region of the United States, known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant art scene. However, not all parts of the state are thriving.
According to the 2020 Census, New Mexico’s population grew by only 2.8% in the last decade, ranking 40th among the 50 states. Moreover, some counties in the state have experienced significant population losses, raising concerns about their economic and social well-being.
In this article, we will explore the five counties in New Mexico that have the most rapid population decline, based on the percentage change from 2010 to 2020.
| County | Population (2020) | Population Change (2010-2020) | Population Density (per sq. mi.) |
| De Baca | 1,748 | -16% | 1.3 |
| Hidalgo | 3,806 | -15% | 1.8 |
| Mora | 4,028 | -14% | 3.1 |
| San Juan | 113,801 | -8.80% | 18.5 |
| Colfax | 11,334 | -8.60% | 4.4 |
De Baca County
De Baca County is located in the eastern part of the state, bordering Texas. It has a population of 1,748, which is a 16% decrease from 2010, when it had 2,072 people. This is the largest percentage decrease in population among all counties in New Mexico.
De Baca County is one of the least populated and most rural counties in the state, with a population density of only 1.3 people per square mile. The county also has an aging population, with a median age of 51.9 years, compared to the state’s median age of 38.6 years.
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Hidalgo County
Hidalgo County is located in the southwestern corner of the state, bordering Arizona and Mexico. It has a population of 3,806, which is a 15% decrease from 2010, when it had 4,894 people. This is the second largest percentage decrease in population among all counties in New Mexico.
Hidalgo County is also one of the least populated and most rural counties in the state, with a population density of only 1.8 people per square mile. The county also has a high poverty rate, with 24.4% of the population living below the poverty level, compared to the state’s poverty rate of 18.2%.
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Mora County
Mora County is located in the north-central part of the state, bordering Colorado. It has a population of 4,028, which is a 14% decrease from 2010, when it had 4,881 people. This is the third largest percentage decrease in population among all counties in New Mexico.
Mora County is also one of the least populated and most rural counties in the state, with a population density of only 3.1 people per square mile. The county also has a low median household income, with $29,718, compared to the state’s median household income of $51,945.
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San Juan County
San Juan County is located in the northwestern part of the state, bordering Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. It has a population of 113,801, which is an 8.8% decrease from 2010, when it had 130,044 people.
This is the fourth largest percentage decrease in population among all counties in New Mexico. San Juan County is the second most populated county in the state, after Bernalillo County, which includes Albuquerque. The county also has a high unemployment rate, with 10.9%, compared to the state’s unemployment rate of 8.3%.
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Colfax County
Colfax County is located in the northeastern part of the state, bordering Colorado. It has a population of 11,334, which is an 8.6% decrease from 2010, when it had 13,750 people. This is the fifth largest percentage decrease in population among all counties in New Mexico.
Colfax County is also one of the least populated and most rural counties in the state, with a population density of only 4.4 people per square mile. The county also has a high median age, with 49.4 years, compared to the state’s median age of 38.6 years.
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Conclusion
The five counties in New Mexico that have the most rapid population decline are De Baca, Hidalgo, Mora, San Juan, and Colfax. These counties share some common characteristics, such as low population density, rural location, and dependence on natural resources.
They also face some common challenges, such as economic downturn, environmental stress, and demographic change. These counties may need to find new ways to diversify their economies, attract and retain residents, and improve their quality of life.
On the other hand, these counties also have some unique assets, such as rich history, culture, and natural beauty. These counties may need to leverage their strengths, promote their identity, and enhance their resilience.
