The Las Cruces NM MSA covers Dona Ana County, the second most populated county in New Mexico. Las Cruces, the county seat, is the largest city in the county and is the second largest city in the state. The population of the county grew 28.9% between 1990 and 2000. The city’s population grew 19.5% during that decade. The county’s population is projected to grow by 17.9% between 2000 and 2010 and 14.9% between 2010 and 2020.

The county population estimate for 2007 was 198,791. The city population estimate for 2007 was 89,722. Contiguous CDPs and population within the Extra Territorial Zone (ETZ) bring the “Greater Las Cruces” population to more than 125,000.

The county labor force is affordable and growing. Over the past ten years, the labor force has grown at an average annual rate of 2.4%. Total employment has grown at an annual average rate of 3.0% during that time period. Unemployment has dropped to an annual average of 3.9% (2007). Employment grew by 29.9% between 1990 and 2000 and is projected to grow by 25.5% between 2000 and 2010.

For the most current detailed labor market information, and other information such as educational attainment, occupational and industry distribution, unionization and average annual industry wages, see “Open for Business” and “Business Resources” tabs.