New Mexico ranks among top states in manufacturing growth

New Mexico ranks sixth in manufacturing job growth and fifth in wage gains, outpacing nearby states, according to new data from EDD.

New Mexico ranks among top states in manufacturing growth
(Courtesy image / New Mexico Economic Development Department)

Report shows state placing sixth in job growth and fifth in wage gains during National Manufacturing Week

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - New Mexico continues to see strong growth in its manufacturing sector, ranking sixth nationwide in year-over-year job growth and fifth in wage increases, according to new data from the Economic Development Department.

From August 2024 to August 2025, the state recorded a 1.4 percent increase in manufacturing employment, while national employment in the sector fell 0.6 percent. Neighboring states lagged behind — Colorado ranked 16th, Arizona 30th and Texas 34th.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, State and Area Employment, Hours, and Earnings

New Mexico also saw wages climb 5.7 percent from the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025, compared with a 3 percent national average. During the same period, Colorado, Texas and Arizona each posted wage growth under 2 percent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Quarterly Census of Employment Wages

“New Mexico’s manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in helping us create pathways to prosperity, generating local jobs and increased wages for tens of thousands of residents,” said EDD Cabinet Secretary Rob Black. “We’re continuing to invest in the future of this important industry sector that provides such significant contributions to the state's economy and workforce.”

The data, sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, comes as the state celebrates National Manufacturing Week, observed Oct. 3–10.

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