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With a population of nearly 15,000, Deming, New Mexico is still considered a small town. But it offers many amenities one might find in a larger town. It is also a hub for another 12,000 residents who live outside of Deming, in rural Luna county.
Deming has been promoted as a retirement destination since the 1950s, and many active seniors have moved to this “Kingdom of the Sun”. In the last ten years this rate has accelerated, causing a small housing “boom” in the area. More younger families have begun moving to Deming as well. They are either professionals who serve the needs of the older population, or they find that the small-town atmosphere is the kind of place they want for their growing children.
Consequently, the town now has ten public schools, one of which is the high school. It also offers post-graduate studies through three college and university branches located in the community. There is a newly renovated library as well.
 Originally, Deming was a frontier town and descendents of the old timers still live in the area, making for an interesting mix in populace. There are still cattle and horse ranchers in outlying areas, and large agricultural spreads produce sweet onions, pecans, chile, wine grapes and other market garden goods.
There is a large Hispanic population in Deming, many of whom can trace their roots to the early Spanish who came from Mexico to explore “Nuevo Mexico”. The Hispanic culture has a strong influence on Deming’s community life. One of the most obvious Hispanic influences is the food most locals enjoy. There seems to be a Mexican restaurant on almost every corner. And they all offer good, home-style cooking. There are a variety of other restaurants available too, from fast food, to Italian and Chinese, to steak houses and snack bars.
There is a wide variety of commerce in town including retail and financial services, homeowner services, and several developers who are building beautiful new homes in their developments. There are enough specialty shops, art galleries and antique shops in Deming to keep the avid shopper busy for several days. And don’t miss the two, world-class wineries that offer tastings every day.
Recreation can be had at the 18-hole golf course, or hiking the nearby desert or mountain trails. There is also an aquatic center that offers programs for young or old, and tennis courts as well.
If one overdoes the fitness thing, the local hospital has the facilities and doctors necessary to look after those, and more serious, medical needs. Several dental and eye care professionals have practices in Deming too.
There are more that 30 churches in Deming, so one can easily find the denomination of one’s choice. As is typical in most small towns, churches and service organizations in Deming are often the driving forces behind many community activities and events.
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