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La Mesa, New Mexico
Census-designated place
La Mesa, New Mexico is located in New Mexico
La Mesa, New Mexico
La Mesa, New Mexico
Location in New Mexico
Country United States
State New Mexico
County Doña Ana
Area
 • Total 2.37 sq mi (6.15 km2)
 • Land 2.37 sq mi (6.15 km2)
 • Water 0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Elevation
3,826 ft (1,166 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total 649
 • Density 273.49/sq mi (105.58/km2)
Time zone UTC-7 (Mountain (MST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-6 (MDT)
ZIP code
88044
Area code(s) 575
GNIS feature ID 2584130

La Mesa is a small, quiet community located in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, in the United States. It is known as a census-designated place, which means it's a special area identified by the census bureau. La Mesa is also an unincorporated community, meaning it doesn't have its own city government.

In 2010, about 728 people lived in La Mesa. The community has its own post office with the ZIP code 88044. A road called NM 28 runs right through the middle of La Mesa.

Location and Geography

La Mesa is found in the southern part of New Mexico. It is part of Doña Ana County. The area is known for its beautiful desert landscapes.

Near the Rio Grande

La Mesa is located close to the Rio Grande river. This river is very important for the region. It provides water for farming. The land around the river is often very fertile.

Elevation and Climate

The community sits at an elevation of about 3,826 feet (1,166 meters) above sea level. This higher elevation can make the weather a bit different. La Mesa has a desert climate. This means it usually has hot summers and mild winters. There is not much rain throughout the year.

Community Life

Life in La Mesa is often peaceful and calm. It is a smaller community. Many people who live here enjoy the quiet environment.

Local Services

Even though it is a small place, La Mesa has a post office. This helps residents send and receive mail. The community relies on nearby towns for many other services. These might include larger stores or hospitals.

Transportation

NM 28 is the main road that goes through La Mesa. This road connects the community to other places. It helps people travel for work or school. It also makes it easier to visit nearby cities.

Demographics

The population of La Mesa changes over time. The United States Census Bureau counts how many people live there. This count helps us understand the community.

Historical population
Census Pop.
2020 649
U.S. Decennial Census

Population Changes

In 2010, the population was 728 people. By 2020, the population was 649 people. This shows a small decrease in the number of residents. Understanding these numbers helps local planners. They can make decisions about schools or services.

Community Size

La Mesa covers an area of about 2.37 square miles (6.15 square kilometers). This makes it a small community. The population density is about 273 people per square mile. This means there is plenty of space for everyone.

History of the Area

The area around La Mesa has a rich history. It has been settled for a long time. Many communities in New Mexico have deep roots. They often began as farming villages.

Early Settlements

People have lived along the Rio Grande for centuries. The river provided water for crops. This made it a good place to settle. Early communities often grew their own food. They also traded with other groups.

New Mexico's Heritage

New Mexico has a unique cultural heritage. It blends Native American, Spanish, and American influences. Small towns like La Mesa are part of this rich history. They help preserve the traditions of the region.

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