Hidalgo County, NM
4,003 residents · 3,439 sq mi · 1.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Hidalgo County
Hidalgo County is the southernmost county of the U.S. state of New Mexico. As of the 2020 census, the population was 4,178. The county seat and largest city is Lordsburg. A bill creating Hidalgo from the southern part of Grant County was passed on February 25, 1919, taking effect at the beginning of 1920. The county was named for the town north of Mexico City where the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, which in turn was named for Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, the priest who is known as the "Father of Mexican Independence."
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural experience with a low population density of 1.2 people per square mile, ideal for those seeking solitude. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 60.6°F and 12.3 inches of rainfall, which supports a growing season suitable for hardy crops in USDA zone 8b. However, the arid classification indicates limited water resources, making sustainable self-sufficient living more challenging without careful planning and management.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this region, with drought ranked 84 and wildfire at 83, indicating a high likelihood of these events affecting daily life. The area also experiences heat waves, with summer highs averaging 94.3°F, which can strain resources and comfort. Additionally, the high violence percentile of 91 suggests potential safety concerns, particularly for those unaccustomed to rural living or isolated environments.
This county may appeal to experienced homesteaders or those comfortable with remote living, particularly if they can manage water scarcity and prepare for natural hazards. Individuals seeking a vibrant community or urban amenities may find this area less suitable. The low housing costs, with a median home price of $102,500, could be a hidden gem for those willing to invest in self-sufficiency and resilience against environmental challenges.