Cities and Towns in Lea County, New Mexico

Founded in 1917, Lea County is one of 33 counties in the state of New Mexico. Historically, Lea County was formed from parts of Chaves County and Eddy County. The city of Lovington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 25, Lea County has a population of 73,004 and area of 4,393 square miles (11,378 km²).

List of all cities in Lea County, NM alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bennett, NM	88252	575
Buckeye, NM	88260	575
Caprock, NM	88213	575
Crossroads, NM	88114	575
Eunice, NM	88231	575
Hobbs, NM	88240	575
	88241	575
	88242	575
	88244	575
Jal, NM	88252	575
Lea County Correctional Fac, NM	88244	575
Lovington, NM	88260	575
Maljamar, NM	88264	575
McDonald, NM	88262	575
Monument, NM	88265	575
Oil Center, NM	88240	575
Tatum, NM	88213	575
	88267	575

Major Cities and Towns in Lea County, New Mexico

Hobbs, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 17.5 square miles
• Population: 41,000 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88240
• Latitude: 32.6869° N
• Longitude: 103.1578° W

Hobbs is a city located in the southeastern part of New Mexico and serves as one of the largest urban centers in Lea County. Founded in the early 20th century, Hobbs began as a railroad town in 1907 when the Pecos Valley and Northern Texas Railway arrived in the area. Named after a local landowner, Hobbs quickly grew due to the discovery of oil in the region during the 1920s, which spurred economic development and attracted a wave of new residents seeking jobs in the oil industry. The city has continued to thrive, diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas to include agriculture, retail, and education. Hobbs is known for its vibrant community, rich cultural events, and active participation in local sports.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hobbs is served by the Hobbs Municipal Schools district, which includes Hobbs High School, known for its academic achievements and strong athletic programs. The school district emphasizes community involvement and offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students. Major landmarks in Hobbs include the New Mexico Junior College, which provides higher education opportunities and vocational training to the community. The city also features the Hobbs Museum of History, showcasing local artifacts and exhibits related to the area’s oil boom and cultural heritage. The downtown area is home to shops, restaurants, and art galleries, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the annual Hobbs Chamber of Commerce’s events and festivals, such as the Hobbs Arts and Crafts Festival, celebrate the local culture and community spirit. With its rich history, educational resources, and community events, Hobbs is a dynamic city in Lea County.

Lovington, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 4.1 square miles
• Population: 11,000 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88260
• Latitude: 32.9413° N
• Longitude: 104.3146° W

Lovington is the county seat of Lea County, located just north of Hobbs. Established in the early 20th century, Lovington was incorporated in 1917, primarily serving as an agricultural center. The town was named after the Lovington family, who were early settlers in the area. Lovington quickly grew as a hub for the local farming and ranching communities, benefiting from the fertile land and access to water resources. The discovery of oil in the surrounding area during the 1920s and 1930s contributed to Lovington’s economic growth and development, making it an important center for oil production and processing. Over the years, Lovington has embraced its agricultural roots while diversifying its economy and services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lovington is served by the Lovington Municipal Schools district, which includes Lovington High School, recognized for its strong academic performance and commitment to extracurricular activities. The district emphasizes student involvement in sports and the arts. Major landmarks in Lovington include the Lea County Courthouse, an architectural landmark that reflects the town’s history and local governance. The Lovington Arts and Culture Center showcases local art and hosts community events, promoting cultural engagement. Additionally, the Lovington Museum features exhibits on the town’s history, including its agricultural and oil heritage. The nearby parks provide recreational facilities, including sports fields and walking trails. Lovington hosts various community events, such as the annual Lovington Wild West Rodeo, celebrating local traditions and bringing residents together. With its strong community ties, educational resources, and commitment to cultural preservation, Lovington is a welcoming city in Lea County.

Jal, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 1.2 square miles
• Population: 2,100 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88252
• Latitude: 32.1596° N
• Longitude: 104.1889° W

Jal is a small city located in the southeastern corner of New Mexico, just north of the Texas border. Established in the early 20th century, Jal began as a railroad stop and agricultural community. The town was named after a local oil company, JAL Oil, which played a significant role in the area’s development during the oil boom of the 1920s. As oil production increased, Jal grew rapidly, attracting workers and businesses to support the burgeoning industry. Despite facing challenges as the oil industry fluctuated, Jal has maintained its identity as a close-knit community with strong ties to agriculture and ranching. The town is also known for its rich cultural heritage and local events that celebrate its history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jal is served by the Jal Municipal Schools district, which includes Jal High School, known for its strong academic and athletic programs. The district emphasizes community involvement and offers various extracurricular activities for students. Major landmarks in Jal include the Jal Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s history and the significance of the oil industry in its development. The city features several parks that provide recreational opportunities for residents, including sports fields and playgrounds. The annual Jal Balloon Festival attracts visitors with its colorful hot air balloons and community festivities, celebrating local culture and spirit. With its rich history, educational resources, and community engagement, Jal is a welcoming city that reflects the charm of rural New Mexico.

Eunice, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 2.2 square miles
• Population: 2,800 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88231
• Latitude: 32.8420° N
• Longitude: 103.0528° W

Eunice is a small city located in Lea County, New Mexico, to the southwest of Hobbs. Founded in 1907, Eunice began as a railroad town, established by a local land developer who named it after his daughter. The city quickly developed as an agricultural center, benefiting from the fertile land and irrigation from nearby water sources. The discovery of oil in the area during the mid-20th century brought further economic growth and opportunities, making Eunice a vital player in the oil and gas industry. Over the years, the city has maintained its small-town charm and continues to foster a strong sense of community among its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eunice is served by the Eunice Municipal Schools district, which includes Eunice High School, known for its commitment to academic success and community involvement. The district provides various programs that encourage student participation in extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Eunice include the historic Eunice Depot, which reflects the town’s railroad heritage and is a reminder of its early days as a transportation hub. The city features several parks that offer recreational facilities, including sports fields and playgrounds. The annual Eunice Wild West Days celebration showcases local culture and brings residents together for fun activities, food, and entertainment. With its focus on education, community spirit, and preservation of its history, Eunice is a welcoming city in Lea County.