La Mesa, NM
Population 548 · New Mexico
About La Mesa, NM
La Mesa is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 548 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,694 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 63.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in La Mesa features a median home value of $108,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes La Mesa one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $532, 54% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 383 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (181 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (46 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in La Mesa shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 21.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in La Mesa have an average one-way commute time of 23.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.1% of La Mesa residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 89.4% White, 5.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 7.5% Asian residents, with 37.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How La Mesa Ranks in New Mexico
Cost of Living in La Mesa, NM
Compared to national averages, La Mesa has a median household income of $40,694 (46% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,700, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $532 is 54% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, La Mesa's income is 40% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 53% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in La Mesa, NM?
La Mesa offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $532/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,694) that falls below the national average. However, La Mesa’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
La Mesa has a population of 548 with a median age of 63.7 years. Compare La Mesa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near La Mesa
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New Mexico
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare La Mesa With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about La Mesa
What is the population of La Mesa, NM?
The population of La Mesa, NM is 548 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in New Mexico.
What is the median household income in La Mesa?
The median household income in La Mesa, NM is $40,694 per year, which is 46% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in La Mesa?
The median home value in La Mesa, NM is $108,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in La Mesa?
The median monthly rent in La Mesa, NM is $532, which is 54% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in La Mesa?
The unemployment rate in La Mesa, NM is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is La Mesa, NM a good place to live?
La Mesa offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 548 and a median age of 63.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is La Mesa, NM?
6.1% of residents in La Mesa aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in La Mesa?
Key cost-of-living indicators for La Mesa, NM: median home value is $108,700 (56% below national), median rent is $532/month, and median household income is $40,694. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in La Mesa?
The poverty rate in La Mesa, NM is 21.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is La Mesa, NM?
La Mesa's population is 89.4% White, 5.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 7.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 37.6% of residents are foreign-born.