The federal government is the largest single provider of jobs in New Mexico, accounting directly for about 25% of the state’s employment. Multiple air force bases, the Los Alamos and Sandia laboratories, and numerous national forests and parks, including Carlsbad Caverns, contribute to New Mexico’s economy and tourist appeal. Farming and ranching, mining, tourism and high-tech manufacturing are some of the leading sources of private-sector New Mexico jobs. Healthcare facilities and educational institutions are also counted among New Mexico’s largest employers.

Albuquerque, the largest city in NM, is at the heart of the state’s technology corridor, which consists of both government facilities and high-tech companies such as semiconductor manufacturer Intel. Education, manufacturing and construction are principal sources of jobs in Albuquerque. The service, education and transportation sectors drive the growth of jobs in Las Cruces; New Mexico State University has its main campus there. Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, is also an artistic capital of the Southwestern U.S. The natural beauty of the region has made tourism an important source of Santa Fe jobs and revenue.