United States >> States >> New Mexico
New Mexico Population Overview (2026 Projection)
New Mexico is a state in the Southwestern United States. It borders Texas to the east and southeast, Oklahoma to the northeast, and the Mexican states of Chihuahua and Sonora to the south.
New Mexico is the 36th most populous state of the United States and the fifth-largest by area. The total land area is 121,298 sq. mi. (314,161 km²), with an average of 17.2 people per square mile, making it the 6th least densely populated state in the US.
As per the United States Census Bureau, the population of New Mexico in 2020 was 2,117,522 (2.1 million). As of July 1, 2024, the estimated population is 2,130,256, approximately 2.13 million people.
👉 Projected Population of New Mexico (2026): ~2.2 million
New Mexico Population Growth (2010–2020)
New Mexico has a population growth rate of 2.8% during 2010–2020, with an increase of 58,343 people since 2010. The median age across the state is approximately 37.2 years, and the population is nearly evenly split with 50.5% females and 49.5% males.
New Mexico Census Snapshot (2020)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 2,117,522 (2.1 million) |
| Percentage Change since 2010 | 2.8% |
| Population Rank | 36th |
| Total Land Area | 121,298 sq mi (314,161 km²) |
| Area Rank | 5th |
| Population Density | 17.2/sq mi (6.62/km²) |
| Capital City | Santa Fe |
| Largest City | Albuquerque |
New Mexico Historical Population
New Mexico’s population has grown steadily over the years. From 61,547 residents in 1850, the state’s population reached 2,117,522 by 2020, reflecting an increase of over 2 million people. The state saw periods of rapid growth, especially in the early 20th century and mid-century decades, while growth slowed somewhat in recent years. This steady increase highlights New Mexico’s gradual development and expansion over time.
Decade Population & Percentage Change
| Census Year | Population | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1850 | 61,547 | — |
| 1860 | 93,516 | 51.9% |
| 1870 | 91,874 | −1.8% |
| 1880 | 119,565 | 30.1% |
| 1890 | 160,282 | 34.1% |
| 1900 | 195,310 | 21.9% |
| 1910 | 327,301 | 67.6% |
| 1920 | 360,350 | 10.1% |
| 1930 | 423,317 | 17.5% |
| 1940 | 531,818 | 25.6% |
| 1950 | 681,187 | 28.1% |
| 1960 | 951,023 | 39.6% |
| 1970 | 1,016,000 | 6.8% |
| 1980 | 1,302,894 | 28.2% |
| 1990 | 1,515,069 | 16.3% |
| 2000 | 1,819,046 | 20.1% |
| 2010 | 2,059,179 | 13.2% |
| 2020 | 2,117,522 | 2.8% |
New Mexico Demographics (Summary)
Religion and Affiliations
Christianity is the predominant religion in New Mexico, followed by 75% of the population. Among Christians, the largest groups are Protestants (38%), Roman Catholics (34%), Mormons (2%), and Jehovah’s Witnesses (1%).
The unaffiliated population makes up 21%, representing residents who do not follow or identify with any religion. Other non-Christian religions—including Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and smaller faiths—account for 4% of the population.
For more details, read Religion in New Mexico
Race and Ethnicity
New Mexico is one of the most ethnically diverse states in the U.S. In 2020, the Hispanic or Latino population was the largest group, comprising 47.74% of residents. This was followed by the White alone (non-Hispanic) population at 36.50%, and American Indians at 8.91%. Residents identifying as two or more races accounted for 2.82%, while Black or African Americans made up 1.81% of the population.
Ancestry
Based on census studies and estimates, the five largest ancestry groups in New Mexico are German, English, Irish, American, and Italian.
For more details, read Race and Ethnicity in New Mexico
Top Cities and Counties in New Mexico
As of 2022, New Mexico is divided into 33 counties. The most populous county is Bernalillo County with 397,821 residents, while Catron County is the largest by land area at 6,928 sq. mi.. Other significant counties include Dona Ana, Santa Fe, Sandoval, and San Juan.
The largest city in New Mexico is Albuquerque, with a population of 564,559. It is followed by Las Cruces (111,385) and Rio Rancho (104,046). Albuquerque also forms the core of the largest metropolitan area in the state.
For more details, read Cities and Counties in New Mexico
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – New Mexico
1. What is the population of New Mexico?
As of 2024, New Mexico has an estimated population of approximately 2.13 million people.
2. Which city is the largest in New Mexico?
Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico, with a population of 564,559.
3. What is the most populous county in New Mexico?
Bernalillo County is the most populous county, home to 397,821 residents.
4. What are the major racial and ethnic groups in New Mexico?
The largest group is Hispanic or Latino (47.7%), followed by White alone, non-Hispanic (36.5%), and American Indian (8.9%).
5. What is the predominant religion in New Mexico?
Christianity is the majority religion, with Protestants (38%) and Roman Catholics (34%) being the largest denominations.
English
Español
Português
Deutsch