Cities and Towns in Torrance County, New Mexico
Founded in 1903, Torrance County is one of 33 counties in the state of New Mexico. Historically, Torrance County was formed from parts of Bernalillo County, Valencia County, and Socorro County. The city of Estancia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 57, Torrance County has a population of 15,307 and area of 3,345 square miles (8,664 km²).
List of all cities in Torrance County, NM alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cedarvale, NM | 87009 | 505 |
| Clines Corners, NM | 87070 | 505 |
| Encino, NM | 88321 | 575 |
| Estancia, NM | 87009 | 505 |
| 87016 | 505 | |
| Lucy, NM | 87063 | 505 |
| McIntosh, NM | 87032 | 505 |
| Milagro, NM | 88321 | 575 |
| Moriarty, NM | 87035 | 505 |
| Mountainair, NM | 87036 | 505 |
| Progresso, NM | 87063 | 505 |
| Tajique, NM | 87016 | 505 |
| Torreon, NM | 87061 | 505 |
| Willard, NM | 87063 | 505 |
Major Cities and Towns in Torrance County, New Mexico
Estancia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,600
- Zip Codes: 87016
- Latitude: 34.9859° N
- Longitude: 106.1409° W
Location and History
Estancia is the county seat of Torrance County and is located in central New Mexico, approximately 50 miles southeast of Albuquerque. The town is situated in the Estancia Valley, a large and fertile basin that has been historically significant for agriculture. Estancia was established in the late 19th century when settlers began farming and ranching in the area. The name “Estancia” comes from the Spanish word for “ranch” or “staying place,” reflecting the town’s agricultural roots. During the late 1800s, the railroad helped connect Estancia to larger trade markets, and agriculture, particularly the production of hay, alfalfa, and livestock, became the backbone of the local economy. The town grew slowly but steadily as it served as a center for commerce and trade for nearby rural communities. Today, Estancia maintains its small-town charm and agricultural character, attracting people who seek a quiet, rural lifestyle while still being close to Albuquerque and its amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Estancia is served by the Estancia Municipal Schools district, which includes Estancia High School, Estancia Middle School, and several elementary schools. The school district is known for offering a variety of extracurricular activities and programs focused on agriculture, reflecting the town’s rural identity. Key landmarks in Estancia include the Torrance County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the focal point for county government. The Estancia Valley Historical Society operates a museum that provides insight into the region’s history, including Native American, Spanish, and settler influences. The nearby Manzano Mountains offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Estancia’s location in the heart of the Estancia Valley makes it a popular spot for travelers looking to experience the rural beauty of New Mexico.
Moriarty
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 6.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100
- Zip Codes: 87035
- Latitude: 34.9813° N
- Longitude: 106.1463° W
Location and History
Moriarty is located in the eastern part of Torrance County, about 40 miles east of Albuquerque, and is known as the “Gateway to the East.” Originally settled in the 1880s, the town’s economy grew due to its position along the historic Route 66 and its proximity to the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. Moriarty was named after local landowner and rancher John Moriarty, who played a significant role in the development of the town. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century made Moriarty an important transportation hub, especially for the region’s agricultural products. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of hay and the raising of livestock, remains central to Moriarty’s economy. The town saw an increase in population and commercial activity during the mid-20th century, driven by the growth of Route 66 tourism and local ranching. Today, Moriarty continues to benefit from its location as a crossroads for travelers, offering a blend of small-town charm and easy access to Albuquerque and other major areas in New Mexico.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Moriarty is served by the Moriarty-Edgewood School District, which includes Moriarty High School, Moriarty Middle School, and several elementary schools. The school district offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs, with a focus on agricultural education and rural skills. Notable landmarks in Moriarty include the Route 66 Auto Museum, which celebrates the history of the famous highway and showcases vintage automobiles from the 20th century. The Moriarty Historical Society also operates a museum, preserving the town’s history and the cultural heritage of the region. The nearby Sandia Mountains provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing, while Moriarty’s proximity to Albuquerque makes it an ideal location for travelers and commuters. The town hosts annual events such as the Moriarty Rodeo and the Route 66 Festival, which bring the community together to celebrate its rich history and agricultural roots.
Willard
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Codes: 87063
- Latitude: 34.8670° N
- Longitude: 106.0765° W
Location and History
Willard is a small village located in the southwestern part of Torrance County, New Mexico, roughly 40 miles south of Albuquerque. The town was established in the early 1900s and was originally a railroad stop along the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. Willard’s development was closely tied to the expansion of the railway system, which allowed it to become a hub for the transportation of agricultural goods. Like many other small towns in New Mexico, Willard grew as an agricultural community, with ranching and farming being the primary economic activities. Over the years, the town’s population has remained small, and it retains a rural character that appeals to those seeking a quiet, small-town lifestyle. The name “Willard” is thought to have been chosen after a local railroad executive, though the exact origins of the name are unclear. Today, Willard is a peaceful community with few commercial establishments, but it offers a friendly atmosphere and easy access to the nearby Manzano Mountains and larger towns like Moriarty and Albuquerque.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Willard is part of the Estancia Municipal Schools district, and its children attend schools in nearby Estancia or Moriarty. Despite its small size, the community places a strong emphasis on education and local culture. Notable landmarks in Willard include the historic Willard Depot, which is a remnant of the town’s days as a railroad stop. The depot is one of the last surviving buildings from the town’s early 20th-century period and stands as a reminder of Willard’s importance as a transportation hub. The surrounding landscape of open fields and distant mountains provides residents and visitors with numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. The nearby Manzano Mountains are home to the Manzano Mountains State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and wildlife observation, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. Willard’s rural charm and proximity to larger towns make it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle in Torrance County.
Encino
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100
- Zip Codes: 88314
- Latitude: 34.6476° N
- Longitude: 106.1684° W
Location and History
Encino is a small village located in the northern part of Torrance County, New Mexico, approximately 30 miles south of Santa Fe and about 70 miles northeast of Albuquerque. Established in the late 1800s, Encino has always been a small agricultural community, with its economy traditionally based on cattle ranching and farming. The town was named after the Spanish word for “oak,” referring to the oak trees that grow in the region. Encino grew slowly over the years, and today it remains a peaceful and rural community. Its proximity to larger towns like Santa Fe and Albuquerque allows residents to enjoy the tranquility of rural life while still having access to urban amenities. Encino’s location in the Estancia Valley provides it with fertile agricultural land, which continues to support local farming, though the population has remained small over the years. The town maintains a strong sense of local identity and is proud of its agricultural and cultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Encino is served by the Estancia Municipal Schools district, and children typically attend schools in Estancia or Moriarty. Though small, the town values education and community. Encino’s most notable landmark is the San Jose de Encino Church, a historic adobe church built in the 19th century, which serves as both a spiritual center and a reminder of the area’s Spanish colonial roots. The surrounding agricultural landscape and proximity to the Manzano Mountains provide scenic views and outdoor activities, including hiking and wildlife viewing. Encino is also a short drive from the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, known for birdwatching and wildlife photography. The town’s small size and rural atmosphere make it a quiet and picturesque place to visit or live, surrounded by the natural beauty of central New Mexico.
