New Mexico is a state with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. However, not all of its towns are thriving or attractive to residents. In fact, some of them are experiencing a significant population decline, as people are leaving for various reasons. Here are five New Mexico towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible.

De Baca County

De Baca County is a rural county in eastern New Mexico, with a population of only 1,748 as of 2020. It had the largest percentage decrease in population since the last census, losing 324 people, or 16%. The county has a low median household income of $31,250, and a high poverty rate of 24.4%. The county also lacks economic opportunities, as most of its businesses are in agriculture, retail, and health care. Many young people are leaving the county for education and employment elsewhere.

Eunice

Eunice is a city in Lea County, in southeastern New Mexico. It had a population of 2,802 as of 2020, down from 3,065 in 2010. The city is heavily dependent on the oil and gas industry, which is volatile and subject to fluctuations in prices and demand. The city also has a low median household income of $40,625, and a high poverty rate of 22.9%. The city has few amenities and attractions, and many residents are looking for better living conditions elsewhere.

Loving

Loving is another city in Lea County, with a population of 1,200 as of 2020, down from 1,386 in 2010. The city is also reliant on the oil and gas industry, and faces similar challenges as Eunice. The city has a very low median household income of $28,750, and a very high poverty rate of 38.8%. The city has limited services and facilities, and many residents are dissatisfied with the quality of life.

Lordsburg

Lordsburg is a city in Hidalgo County, in southwestern New Mexico. It had a population of 2,144 as of 2020, down from 2,318 in 2010. The city is located near the border with Mexico, and has been affected by the issues of immigration, drug trafficking, and crime. The city has a low median household income of $30,833, and a high poverty rate of 28.6%. The city also suffers from a lack of economic development and diversification, as most of its businesses are in retail, accommodation, and food services.

Raton

Raton is a city in Colfax County, in northeastern New Mexico. It had a population of 6,095 as of 2020, down from 6,031 in 2010. The city was once a prosperous railroad and mining town, but has declined since the closure of the mines and the reduction of the rail service. The city has a low median household income of $34,583, and a high poverty rate of 20.9%. The city also faces a loss of tourism and recreation, as its main attraction, the Raton Pass, has been bypassed by the Interstate 25.

Conclusion

These are some of the New Mexico towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible, due to various factors such as economic hardship, lack of opportunities, low quality of life, and social problems. These towns are in need of revitalization and innovation, to reverse the trend of population decline and to attract and retain residents. However, this may require significant investment and collaboration from the local, state, and federal governments, as well as the private sector and the community.