Clayton, NM Real Estate
Union County · Northeast NM
Clayton, New Mexico Real Estate
Clayton is the county seat and only incorporated city of Union County, with a 2020 Census population of 2,555. Located at 4,969 feet elevation on the New Mexico High Plains, Clayton sits near the intersection of US-56, US-64, and US-87 — a junction that historically made it a significant cattle-shipping and commercial center for the region. The city offers the full range of small-city services for the surrounding ranch country: a hospital, K-12 schools, grocery stores, and local government administration.
Real Estate Market
Clayton's residential real estate market is among the most affordable in New Mexico. Single-family homes in established neighborhoods are available at prices well below state medians, offering genuine value for buyers willing to embrace small-city High Plains living. Clayton also serves as the hub for Union County ranch transactions, with large cattle and dryland farming operations trading through local brokers. Wind energy development in the region has brought economic diversification and infrastructure investment. Clayton Lake State Park, just north of town, draws statewide visitors for its dinosaur trackway exhibit and fishing.
Key Employers
- Clayton Independent Schools
- Union County General Hospital — Critical access hospital
- Union County government
- Agriculture and ranching
- Wind energy sector
Key Facts
- 2020 Census population: 2,555
- Elevation: 4,969 ft
- County seat of Union County
- School district: Clayton Independent Schools
- Clayton Lake State Park: 500+ dinosaur trackways
- Crossroads of US-56, US-64, and US-87