7.3 Urbanization and the growth of Albuquerque and other cities
3 min read•august 14, 2024
After World War II, New Mexico's cities boomed. People flocked to urban areas for jobs in nuclear weapons, military bases, and growing universities. This shift reshaped the state's economy, politics, and culture.
Albuquerque grew fastest, ballooning from 35,000 people in 1940 to over 200,000 by 1960. This rapid growth brought new opportunities but also challenges like and strained infrastructure.
Postwar Urbanization of New Mexico
Factors Contributing to Urbanization
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New Mexico experienced significant urbanization after World War II
Population shifted from rural areas to cities (Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces)
Development of attracted scientists, engineers, and support personnel
Los Alamos and contributed to urban growth
Expansion of military presence brought military personnel and their families to the state's cities
and
Improved transportation infrastructure made New Mexico's cities more accessible and attractive
Construction of highways and expansion of airports
Growth of tourism industry contributed to the development of cities
Santa Fe art scene and Albuquerque's Old Town
Establishment of universities drew students and faculty to urban centers
in Albuquerque and in Las Cruces
Impact on State's Landscape
Urbanization led to a shift in the state's economy
Greater emphasis on industries concentrated in cities (technology, defense, tourism)
Growth of cities created new job opportunities and attracted businesses
Contributed to economic development and diversification in New Mexico
Changes in social structures occurred as urban societies became more diverse and complex
Traditional rural and small-town communities gave way
Concentration of population in cities increased their political influence
Urban voters and interests became more important in state and local politics
Challenges associated with urban growth became key issues in political debates and policy-making
Housing affordability and infrastructure needs
Cultural and artistic vibrancy of cities became an important part of the state's identity
Santa Fe and Albuquerque attracted tourists and new residents
Albuquerque's Population Growth
Albuquerque experienced rapid population growth in the postwar era
Population increased from around 35,000 in 1940 to over 200,000 by 1960
Continued growth in the following decades, reaching over 500,000 by 2000
Became New Mexico's largest city
Demographic composition of the city changed as a result of urbanization
Increase in the percentage of non-Hispanic white residents
Decrease in the percentage of Hispanic and Native American residents
Influx of scientists, engineers, and military personnel contributed to a more educated and professionally diverse population
Urban growth led to the development of new neighborhoods and suburbs
Changed the spatial distribution of the population within the city
Urban Development in New Mexico
Infrastructure and Housing Challenges
Rapid urban development strained existing infrastructure
Roads, water systems, and schools required significant investments to keep pace with growth
Expansion of cities led to increased demand for housing
Drove up property values and rents, creating affordability challenges for some residents
and development of suburbs contributed to environmental concerns
Increased air pollution and loss of open spaces
Economic and Cultural Opportunities
Concentration of population in cities created opportunities for economic growth
Businesses could access a larger pool of workers and customers
Development of cultural institutions enhanced quality of life and attracted visitors
Museums, theaters, and sports venues
Growth of cities led to increased diversity and cultural exchange
People from different backgrounds came together in urban environments
Urbanization's Impact on New Mexico
Santa Fe and Las Cruces also experienced significant population growth during this period
Growth occurred on a smaller scale compared to Albuquerque
Urbanization led to changes in social structures and political influence
Traditional rural communities gave way to more diverse urban societies
Urban voters and interests became more important in state and local politics
Challenges associated with urban growth became key issues in policy-making
Housing affordability, infrastructure needs, and environmental concerns
Cultural and artistic vibrancy of cities became an important part of New Mexico's identity
Attracted tourists and new residents, particularly in Santa Fe and Albuquerque