If you’re a nurse seeking abundant work opportunities and plenty of fun things to do in your free time, you might love New Mexico. As the fifth-largest state by area, it features diverse geography — flat plains, mountains, forests, and streams — all accessible year-round thanks to its sunny weather. Additionally, the state has a strong demand for healthcare workers, with opportunities available in cities and rural areas, along with competitive salaries.
Ready to explore nursing jobs in New Mexico? IntelyCare can help you discover work opportunities to fit your lifestyle and goals — full time, part time, contract, temporary, or per diem — plus, you can plan exciting adventures to enjoy in your free time.
Quick Facts About Nursing Jobs in New Mexico
- Does New Mexico belong to the Nurse Licensure Compact? Yes. Learn more about the New Mexico Nurse Practice Act.
- How much do nurses make in New Mexico? The average annual salaries for nursing jobs in New Mexico vary based on your experience and educational background:
- NP salary in New Mexico: $136,770
- RN salary in New Mexico: $92,140
- LVN salary in New Mexico: $56,130
- CNA salary in New Mexico: $37,030
- Where can I learn more about New Mexico’s requirements for nurse licenses? The New Mexico State Board of Nursing has all the details you need. If your license is nearing expiration, check out our guide on license renewal in New Mexico.
- What are the most populous cities to find jobs in New Mexico? Here are five of the most populous cities to kickstart your job search:
- Albuquerque
- Las Cruces
- Rio Rancho
- Santa Fe
- Roswell
What to Know When Pursuing Nursing Jobs in New Mexico
New Mexico, home to over 2.1 million people, proudly ranks among the 10 most racially diverse states in the U.S. You'll need your cultural competence skills in this diverse landscape: 48.2% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, 38.2% identifies as White, 8.7% identifies as Native American, 1.8% identifies as Black, 1.6 identifies as multiracial, 1.3% identifies as Asian, and 0.2% claims other.
With a median age of 39.9, slightly older than the national median, this state represents a balanced population mix: 19.8% is over 65, while 21.3% is under 18. If you have specialty nursing experience, such as geriatric or pediatric care, be sure to add it to your nursing resume, as it can help you find tailored opportunities in your desired field.
Nurses of all educational levels and experience can find exciting opportunities in New Mexico. Here are some of the most sought out position:
- Nurse practitioner jobs in New Mexico
- Registered nurse jobs in New Mexico
- Licensed practical nurse jobs in New Mexico
- Nursing assistant jobs in New Mexico
- CMA jobs in New Mexico
- HHA jobs in New Mexico
- Surgical tech jobs in New Mexico
- Caregiver jobs in New Mexico
- Student nurse jobs in New Mexico
Working in New Mexico
Healthcare and social assistance account for the largest share of employment in the state at 14.9%, followed by retail trade and educational services. As a nurse, you'll have access to job opportunities in a variety of settings, from bustling cities to peaceful rural areas, which, by the way, are home to about a third of New Mexico’s population.
If you're looking to work in acute care, there are plenty of renowned hospitals and medical centers available, including the following:
- Los Alamos Medical Center
- Three Crosses Regional Hospital
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services
- UNM Hospital
- Mimbres Memorial Hospital
- San Juan Regional Medical Center
- Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center
- Mountain View Regional
- Eastern New Mexico Medical Center
If post-acute or long-term care is your passion, there are plenty of facilities to explore:
- Oak Street Health
- OPCO Skilled Management
- Clear Sky Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Rio Rancho
- Taos Healthcare
- Casa Maria Healthcare
- Aztec Healthcare
- White Sands Healthcare
Want roles outside of the hospital setting? Nursing jobs in New Mexico can also be found in home care centers such as Comfort Keepers and government facilities like the New Mexico Department of Health and Indian Health Service. Additionally, you can explore remote opportunities in facilities like Lovelace Health System.
Not sold on the idea of moving? Explore travel nurse jobs in New Mexico. It’s a great way to experience the state, all while making some extra cash for your move.
What's the commute like in New Mexico? On average, it takes 21.8 minutes to get to work, which is faster than the national average. The majority of residents (80.2%) drive alone, 9.8% share rides, 4.8% work remotely, and only 1.1% use public transit.
Wondering if you can find reliable help for your kids or pets here? Absolutely! New Mexico offers a variety of childcare centers and pet care services, so you can head to work worry-free.
Living in New Mexico
There are plenty of fun outdoor activities in New Mexico. Hike the scenic trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, take a nature escape in the Gila Wilderness, or enjoy the stunning gypsum dunes at White Sands National Park. For watersports, the Rio Grande River and Elephant Butte Lake are top spots.
Looking for some indoor fun? The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center dives into the history, art, and culture of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblo tribes. The Museum of International Folk Art features one of the world's largest collections of folk art, including ceramics and wood carvings. And for something unique, visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History.
New Mexico is rich in unique traditions. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta features colorful hot air balloons soaring over the desert, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The Fiesta de Santa Fe celebrates Spanish colonial heritage with parades, traditional dances, and the iconic Burning of Zozobra — a giant puppet symbolizing the burning away of negativity. The Santa Fe Indian Market is a unique art event, featuring over 1,000 Native American artists and their works.
Curious about the weather in New Mexico? The local climate is as varied as its landscape — hot and dry deserts in the south, chilly alpine forests in the north, and bustling cities with mild temperatures in the central part of the state. Average temperatures range from 20 to 88 degrees year-round.
New Mexico is a budget-friendly state, with living costs 11.6% below the U.S. average. Homes average $267,100 — 21% less than the national average. Renting a two-bedroom unit will cost you about $1,020 per month.
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