Cities and Towns in Otero County, New Mexico

Founded in 1899, Otero County is one of 33 counties in the state of New Mexico. Historically, Otero County was formed from parts of Doña Ana County and Lincoln County. The city of Alamogordo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 35, Otero County has a population of 68,537 and area of 6,627 square miles (17,164 km²).

List of all cities in Otero County, NM alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alamogordo, NM	88310	575
	88311	575
Artesia Camp, NM	88347	575
Bent, NM	88314	575
Cloudcroft, NM	88317	575
	88350	575
Dunken, NM	88344	575
Elk, NM	88339	575
Flying H, NM	88339	575
High Rolls, NM	88325	575
High Rolls Mountain Park, NM	88325	575
Holloman Air Force Base, NM	88330	575
La Luz, NM	88337	575
Mayhill, NM	88339	575
Mescalero, NM	88340	575
Mescalero Apache Indian Rese, NM	88340	575
Mountain Park, NM	88325	575
Orogrande, NM	88342	575
Pinon, NM	88344	575
Sacramento, NM	88347	575
Sunspot, NM	88349	575
Three Rivers, NM	88352	575
Timberon, NM	88350	575
Tularosa, NM	88352	575
Weed, NM	88354	575
White Sands National Monumen, NM	88310	575

Major Cities and Towns in Otero County, New Mexico

Alamogordo, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 19.3 square miles
• Population: 30,000 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88310
• Latitude: 32.8990° N
• Longitude: 105.9989° W

Alamogordo is the largest city in Otero County, located in the southern part of New Mexico, near the Sacramento Mountains and White Sands National Park. Founded in the late 19th century, Alamogordo was established as a railroad town in 1898 and quickly grew due to its location along the Southern Pacific Railroad. The name “Alamogordo” translates to “fat cottonwood” in Spanish, referencing the native trees that populate the area. The city played a crucial role during World War II as a center for military training and testing, particularly with the establishment of the nearby White Sands Proving Ground, where the first atomic bomb was tested in 1945. Today, Alamogordo is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as a gateway to outdoor recreation, drawing tourists and residents who appreciate its natural beauty and historical significance.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alamogordo is served by the Alamogordo Public Schools district, which includes Alamogordo High School, known for its academic programs and strong athletics. The district emphasizes community involvement and offers various extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Alamogordo include the New Mexico Museum of Space History, which showcases the region’s contributions to space exploration and aviation. The nearby White Sands National Park, famous for its unique gypsum sand dunes, offers recreational opportunities such as hiking, picnicking, and photography. The city also features the Alameda Park Zoo, a family-friendly destination showcasing a variety of animals. Alamogordo hosts several annual events, including the Festival of Lights and the Otero County Fair, celebrating local culture and community spirit. With its rich history, educational resources, and access to outdoor activities, Alamogordo is a vibrant and welcoming city.

Tularosa, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 2.6 square miles
• Population: 3,100 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88352
• Latitude: 33.0012° N
• Longitude: 105.9846° W

Tularosa is a village located in Otero County, approximately 15 miles north of Alamogordo, nestled in the Tularosa Basin at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains. Established in the late 19th century, Tularosa grew as an agricultural community, benefiting from the fertile land and abundant water from the Tularosa River. The village’s name, derived from the Spanish word “tulies,” refers to the bulrushes that were abundant in the area. Tularosa has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by Native American and Hispanic traditions. The village has retained its small-town charm, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and community involvement. Over the years, Tularosa has developed into a close-knit community known for its friendly atmosphere and local events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tularosa is served by the Tularosa Municipal Schools district, which includes Tularosa High School, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and extracurricular activities. The school offers a range of programs to enhance student learning and engagement. Major landmarks in Tularosa include the historic Tularosa Courthouse, which reflects the town’s early architecture and serves as a focal point for community gatherings. The village also features the Tularosa Museum, showcasing local history, art, and culture. The annual Tularosa Rose Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and community spirit, featuring parades, music, and local crafts. The nearby White Sands National Park provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and scenic exploration. With its focus on education, community engagement, and cultural preservation, Tularosa is a welcoming village that highlights the unique character of Otero County.

Cloudcroft, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 1.6 square miles
• Population: 700 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88317
• Latitude: 32.9620° N
• Longitude: 105.6747° W

Cloudcroft is a charming village located in the Sacramento Mountains of Otero County, New Mexico, situated at an elevation of 9,000 feet. Established in the late 19th century, Cloudcroft was originally developed as a resort community, attracting visitors seeking cooler temperatures and scenic beauty during the summer months. The village’s name reflects its location, derived from the combination of “cloud” and “croft,” indicating a place of gentle pastures in the clouds. Cloudcroft quickly became known for its lush forests, hiking trails, and stunning views. The village was also home to the Cloudcroft Hotel, which played a significant role in its development as a tourist destination. Today, Cloudcroft is recognized for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, making it a popular year-round destination.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cloudcroft is served by the Cloudcroft Municipal Schools district, which includes Cloudcroft High School, known for its strong academic programs and community involvement. The school emphasizes outdoor education and encourages students to engage with their natural surroundings. Major landmarks in Cloudcroft include the historic Cloudcroft Lodge, a beautiful building that has hosted guests since the early 1900s. The village features numerous outdoor recreational facilities, including hiking trails in the Lincoln National Forest, which surrounds the area. The nearby Ski Cloudcroft resort offers winter sports opportunities, attracting visitors from around the region. Cloudcroft also hosts various community events, including arts and crafts fairs and seasonal celebrations, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. With its stunning natural beauty, educational resources, and vibrant community spirit, Cloudcroft is a delightful mountain village in Otero County.

Orogrande, New Mexico

Location and History

• Area: 0.2 square miles
• Population: 70 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 88342
• Latitude: 32.1925° N
• Longitude: 106.4346° W

Orogrande is a small unincorporated community located in Otero County, New Mexico, approximately 30 miles south of Alamogordo. Established in the early 20th century, Orogrande developed primarily as a railroad and mining town. The name “Orogrande” translates to “big gold” in Spanish, reflecting the area’s historical connection to mining activities. At its peak, Orogrande served as a bustling center for the local mining industry, attracting workers and families seeking employment. However, as mining operations declined, the population diminished, and the community has remained small but resilient. Today, Orogrande retains its rural charm and serves as a quiet place with strong ties to its history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

As an unincorporated community, Orogrande does not have its own school district; students typically attend schools in nearby towns. The closest educational facilities can be found in Alamogordo or Tularosa. Major landmarks in Orogrande include remnants of historic mining structures that reflect the town’s early economic activity and connection to the region’s mining history. The surrounding landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the natural beauty of southern New Mexico. Local parks offer spaces for family gatherings and community events, fostering a sense of belonging among residents. While Orogrande is small in size, its community spirit and historical significance are vital aspects of its identity, making it a unique place in New Mexico.