Mesilla, Dona Ana County, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,717
-7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,750/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
813
-9.3% year-over-year change

Mesilla population

How many people live in Mesilla

Mesilla is home to 1,717 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44% of Mesilla locals are male, and 56% are female.

Total population
1,717
-7.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44%
756
Female
56%
961
Value Percent YoY change
Male 756 44% -13.7%
Female 961 56% -1.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Mesilla is 56, with the population distributed as follows: about 5% are children under 15, then 22.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 3.7% of the population, while another 34.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 34.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
56.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
5%
15 to 24
22.4%
25 to 44
3.7%
45 to 64
34.7%
Over 65
34.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 86 5% -28.3%
15 to 24 385 22.4% -0.8%
25 to 44 63 3.7% -57.1%
45 to 64 596 34.7% -8.9%
Over 65 587 34.2% 8.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Mesilla, 95.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 24.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,636 95.3% -7.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 59 3.4% -14.5%
Non-citizens 22 1.3% 15.8%
Racial breakdown
White
56.4%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
24.6%
Other
19%
Value Percent
White 969 56.4%
Two or more races 422 24.6%
Other 326 19%

Households in Mesilla

A peek inside Mesilla households

Mesilla has 722 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.8% are families, while the remaining 38.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
722
-10.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
276
Family households
446
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 276 38.2% -15.8%
Family households 446 61.8% -6.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Mesilla

The housing landscape of Mesilla

Mesilla's housing consists of 813 units, with 89.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
813
-9.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 730 89.8%
1 unit, attached 34 4.2%
2 units 30 3.7%
3 or 4 units 19 2.3%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mesilla

In Mesilla, the median construction year is 1971. About 21.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 176 21.6% -18.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22 2.7% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 69 8.5% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 128 15.7% -16.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 105 12.9% -8.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 189 23.2% 2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 65 8% -11.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 35 4.3% -14.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 24 3% 4.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Mesilla occupancy rates

Out of the 722 occupied housing units in Mesilla, 89.6% are owner-occupied, while 10.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
722
-10.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
75
Owner occupied
647
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 75 10.4% -46.0%
Owner occupied 647 89.6% -2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
11.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Mesilla housing costs

Housing costs in Mesilla come to a median of $1,010 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $994.

Median housing costs per month
$1,010/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Mesilla
$994/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Mesilla

Mesilla education at a glance

About 32.6% of the population in Mesilla went to high school, while 14.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 21.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 21.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 62 3.9% 10.7%
High school diploma 512 32.6% -0.2%
College diploma 232 14.8% -10.1%
Associate degree 103 6.6% -9.7%
Bachelor's degree 332 21.1% -8.3%
Graduate degree 331 21.1% -7.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Mesilla

How much people earn in Mesilla

The average annual household income in Mesilla was $117,200 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,750, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mesilla
$117,200/year
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mesilla
$74,750/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Mesilla income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,750 overall. Overall, 95.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $78,750 -32.1%
Over 65 $71,985 -1.3%
Above poverty level
1,640
Below poverty level
77
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,640 95.5% -6.3%
Below poverty level 77 4.5% -22.2%

Employment in Mesilla

Workforce and job types in Mesilla

The job market in Mesilla is powered by 713 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16% run their own businesses, 58.4% are employed by private companies, and 23.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
713
-12.9% year-over-year change
White collar
575
Blue collar
138
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 575 80.6% -16.4%
Blue collar 138 19.4% 5.3%
Employer type
Self employees
16%
Private companies
58.4%
Governmental workers
23.7%
Not for profit companies
2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 114 16% -24.0%
Private companies 416 58.4% -6.5%
Governmental workers 169 23.7% -10.6%
Not for profit companies 14 2% -60.0%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
48.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mesilla stands at 6.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Mesilla

How people get around in Mesilla

Commuting methods vary: 74.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 530 74.3% -2.4%
Bicycle 46 6.4% 58.6%
Walk 14 2% 133.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Mesilla by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88046 656 282 $0 $84,847

Explore more communities

FAQs about Mesilla demographics 

What is the total population of Mesilla?

Mesilla has a total population of 1,717 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -7.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mesilla?

The gender ratio in Mesilla is as follows:
  • 44% males (756 residents)
  • 56% females (961 residents)

What is the median age in Mesilla?

The median age in Mesilla is 56.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mesilla?

The age distribution in Mesilla is as follows:
  • Under 15: 5% (86 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.4% (385 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 3.7% (63 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 34.7% (596 residents)
  • Over 65: 34.2% (587 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mesilla?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mesilla is as follows:
  • White: 56.4% (969 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.6% (422 residents)
  • Other: 19% (326 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mesilla are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.3% of the population in Mesilla.

How many housing units are there in Mesilla?

There are 813 housing units in Mesilla, reflecting a -9.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mesilla and what is the average household size?

Mesilla has a total of 722 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mesilla?

Mesilla has a median household income of $74,750, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mesilla?

The employment rate is 93.2% in Mesilla, with a workforce of 713 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.6% (575 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.4% (138 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16% (114 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.4% (416 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.7% (169 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2% (14 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025