Anthony, New Mexico, a small city straddling the state line between New Mexico and Texas, has recently been named the poorest town in New Mexico. This designation is based on several key economic indicators, including median household income and poverty rates. According to the most recent data, Anthony’s median household income stands at just $27,406, which is significantly lower than the statewide median and the national average. With a population of approximately 8,700, the city also has a strikingly high poverty rate of 37%. This means that more than one in three residents—over 3,200 people—live below the federal poverty line.
The causes behind Anthony’s economic struggles are multifaceted. Like many rural and border communities in the Southwestern United States, Anthony faces persistent challenges related to limited job opportunities and low wages. The region’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and light manufacturing, sectors that historically offer modest compensation and little upward mobility. Many residents commute to nearby cities such as El Paso, Texas, or Las Cruces, New Mexico, for work, but this does not always translate into significant improvements in household income due to the costs associated with travel and the scarcity of high-paying jobs in the region.
Educational attainment in Anthony is another contributing factor to the city’s economic status. Lower levels of education often correlate with limited access to well-paying jobs, and Anthony’s schools struggle with funding and resources. This, in turn, perpetuates a cycle of poverty, as young people may find it difficult to secure the skills and credentials needed to compete in more robust labor markets. Additionally, the city’s infrastructure—including roads, public services, and healthcare facilities—is often underfunded, making it harder for residents to access the resources they need to improve their quality of life.
Anthony is not alone in facing these challenges. Other New Mexico towns, such as Chaparral and Sunland Park, also report high poverty rates and economic hardship. However, Anthony consistently ranks at the top of the list for the lowest median household income and highest poverty rate among cities with populations over 5,000. The city’s unique position on the state line adds another layer of complexity, as jurisdictional issues and cross-border dynamics can complicate efforts to address poverty through state-specific programs and initiatives.
Despite these challenges, Anthony’s residents demonstrate resilience and community spirit. Local organizations and non-profits work to provide support through food banks, job training programs, and educational initiatives. However, the scale of need often outstrips available resources, and systemic issues such as limited economic diversification and underinvestment in public services continue to hinder progress.
The story of Anthony reflects broader trends in rural and border communities across the United States. Economic stagnation, limited access to education and healthcare, and geographic isolation all contribute to persistent poverty. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes targeted investment in education and infrastructure, support for small businesses, and policies that encourage economic development in underserved areas.
Anthony, New Mexico, stands as a stark example of the challenges faced by America’s poorest communities. While the city’s residents are determined and resourceful, systemic barriers to economic opportunity and well-being remain significant obstacles. Understanding and addressing the root causes of poverty in Anthony and similar towns is essential for fostering long-term growth and improving the lives of those who call these communities home.
Sources
[1] https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-new-mexico/
[2] https://stacker.com/stories/new-mexico/cities-new-mexico-most-living-poverty
[3] https://www.indexmundi.com/facts/united-states/quick-facts/new-mexico/percent-of-people-of-all-ages-in-poverty
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_New_Mexico_locations_by_per_capita_income
[5] https://www.kunm.org/local-news/2025-01-14/poverty-fell-more-than-a-third-in-new-mexico-due-to-tax-changes-but-theres-more-to-do
