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Taos

city

Taos, New Mexico, nestled in the north-central part of the state between the Rio Grande Gorge and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is a town steeped in history and culture. Located roughly 50 miles south of the Colorado border, Taos serves as the county seat of Taos County and is the largest municipality in the area. The town is known for its blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, which contribute to its unique character. Taos's economy is supported by tourism, arts, and outdoor recreation. The town has a long-standing reputation as an art colony, attracting artists and visitors alike. The surrounding area offers numerous opportunities for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. What makes Taos distinctive is its rich cultural heritage, anchored by the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been inhabited for nearly a millennium. The town's history as a trading outpost, its role in the Taos Revolt, and its subsequent development as an art colony have all contributed to its unique identity. Taos continues to be a place where diverse traditions and artistic expression thrive.

Taos, New Mexico

Overview
Classification
Town
FIPS Code
35-76200
Country
United States
County
Taos
Geography
Region
North-central New Mexico
Elevation
6,969 ft
Total Area
6.04 sq mi
Land Area
6.04 sq mi
Water Area
0 sq mi
Latitude
36.38694
Longitude
-105.58
Climate
Taos has a semi-arid climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The temperature typically varies from 12°F to 84°F.
Notable Features
Rio Grande Gorge · Sangre de Cristo Mountains · Wheeler Peak
Neighboring Areas
Ranchos de Taos · Cañon · Taos Canyon · Ranchitos · El Prado · Arroyo Seco
Demographics
Population (2020)
6,474
Est. Population (2026)
6,433
Median Age
53.7
Median Income
$47,304
Poverty Rate
13.69%
Owner-Occupied
59.3%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial composition of Taos includes 53.17% White, 47.9% Hispanic, 19.2% Other Race, and smaller percentages of Asian, Native American, and Black or African American.
Governance
Government Type
Mayor-Council-Manager
Governing Body
Town Council
School District
Taos Municipal Schools
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works
Economy
Unemployment Rate
10.5%
Economic Profile
Tourism · Art · Outdoor Recreation
Employment Sectors
Retail Trade · Health Care & Social Assistance · Construction
Education
Schools
6
Students
2,234
Student-Teacher Ratio
15:1
School Districts
Taos Municipal Schools
Colleges & Universities
University of New Mexico-Taos
Infrastructure
Transportation
U.S. Route 64 · New Mexico State Road 68 · Taos Regional Airport
Utilities
Municipal water · Natural gas · Electricity
Major Facilities
Holy Cross Hospital · Taos Regional Airport
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Carson National Forest · Rio Grande del Norte National Monument · Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area
Parks & Trails
Kit Carson Park · Rio Grande Gorge trails
History
Founded
1795
Incorporated
1934
Named After
Taos Pueblo
Historical Significance
Taos has been a center of trade, conflict, and artistic expression for centuries, blending Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures.
Key Events
Spanish conquistadors arrive in 1540 · Town of Don Fernando de Taos established around 1615 · Taos Revolt in 1847 · Taos Society of Artists founded in 1915