On the far west side of Las Cruces, in the foothills of Picacho Peak, the Picacho Hills neighborhood provides a noticeably different pace from much of the city. Built around Picacho Hills Country Club, this development includes more than 800 homes in both gated and ungated subdivisions.
Located about seven miles from downtown, Picacho Hills blends long-standing development with newer construction, custom homes, and expansive views of the Organ Mountains, creating an upscale residential setting that has attracted residents for more than three decades.
Development began more than 30 years ago and continues today, with a mix of original homes and new construction. For buyers seeking a golf course community with established character, Picacho Hills Country Club remains a central draw of the neighborhood’s appeal.
Where Is Picacho Hills Located in Las Cruces?
Picacho Hills sits on the far west side of Las Cruces, approximately seven miles from downtown. The neighborhood rises above the Rio Grande Valley, giving many homes elevated views across the Mesilla Valley and toward the mountains.
The community is bordered by agricultural land on the east and lies near Picacho Peak Recreation Area. Access is primarily via Picacho Hills Drive, which limits traffic and contributes to the area’s quiet character.
Downtown Las Cruces is about a 10-minute drive, Interstate 10 is roughly five miles away, and Three Crosses Regional Hospital is about seven miles east. Because Picacho Hills is outside city limits in unincorporated Doña Ana County, property taxes are typically lower than in neighborhoods in the city.
What Makes Picacho Hills Special?
Panoramic Organ Mountain Views
A primary draw of Picacho Hills is its direct view of the Organ Mountains to the east. Many homes are positioned on a hillside facing east, offering views across the valley.
Sunsets often reflect across the mountain spires, while nighttime brings views of city lights below. These views remain a defining feature throughout the year.
Quiet, Secluded Location
Picacho Hills is set well away from Las Cruces’ busiest corridors. The single access road and the lack of major commercial routes mean residents experience less traffic and noise than in the city.
Streets follow the natural contours of the hills rather than a grid pattern. Agricultural fields along the eastern edge add a buffer between Picacho Hills and denser development.
Walkable Community Feel
Residents often describe Picacho Hills as walkable and neighbor-focused, with a layout that encourages casual interactions. Golf carts are frequently used for short trips around the neighborhood, particularly near Picacho Hills Country Club, reinforcing the relaxed, small community feel.
Community activities include the Art in the Garden sale each May. Picacho Hills Country Club also functions as a social hub for many residents, particularly for those who enjoy golf, tennis, and dining close to home.
What Types of Homes Are in Picacho Hills?
Home Styles and Price Ranges
Homes in Picacho Hills typically range from about $365,000 to $975,000 and above, depending on size, lot, and subdivision. Architecture reflects Southwestern design, with stucco exteriors, clay tile roofs, and desert-adapted landscaping.
Properties include townhome-style residences and golf course–adjacent homes, and large custom houses with three- and four-car garages. Many feature expansive patios, pools, and large windows designed to take in mountain and valley views.
Subdivisions Within Picacho Hills
Picacho Hills comprises several distinct subdivisions: Old Picacho Hills, Fairway Village, Fairway 18, Coronado Ridge, and Butterfield Ridge.
Some neighborhoods have homeowners’ associations with monthly fees ranging from about $42 to $118, while others have no HOA. Nearby Picacho Mountain is a separate but connected master-planned community that includes gated enclaves such as The Willows.
Property Value and Investment
Home prices in Picacho Hills are higher than those in many Las Cruces neighborhoods, reflecting demand for views, space, and proximity to Picacho Hills Country Club. Properties tend to retain value due to limited supply and long-term desirability.
Vacant lots remain available in select areas, offering opportunities for custom construction. Buyers often consult local professionals familiar with Picacho Hills to evaluate pricing, tax considerations, and neighborhood differences between gated and ungated sections.
What Amenities Does Picacho Hills Country Club Offer?
18-Hole Championship Golf Course
Picacho Hills Country Club features an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course measuring approximately 6,880 yards. The course was designed by Joe Finger and is known for consistent conditions and scenery.
Membership options are detailed on their website. Golfers also appreciate the course setting, which includes broad valley views and sightlines toward the mountains.
Tennis Courts
The club includes tennis courts for league play, organized events, and regular play. For residents who want racquet sports as part of their routine, having courts within the neighborhood reduces the need to drive across town for practice and social time.
Dining at Picacho Pub and Patio
The Picacho Pub and Patio restaurant is open to both members and the public. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, soups, burgers, pizzas, appetizers, and more along with full bar service.
The dining area overlooks the golf course and mountains. Diners can also enjoy themed nights and live entertainment on select evenings.
Social Events and Community Activities
Country club members have access to events throughout the year, including golf tournaments, seasonal gatherings, and family-oriented programming. Many residents see Picacho Hills Country Club as a convenient place to meet neighbors and stay socially active without leaving the community.
What Is Near Picacho Hills?
Outdoor Recreation Access
Picacho Hills sits next to the Picacho Peak Recreation Area, which offers hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails. Picacho Peak rises to 4,959 feet and is a prominent landmark west of Las Cruces.
Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park is also a short drive away and provides walking paths and wildlife viewing along the Rio Grande.
Dining and Shopping Options
Several restaurants and bars are located within or near the Picacho Hills area. West Picacho Avenue includes options such as Le Rendez-vous Café and Elephant Ranch, a lively beer garden and bar.
Convenience stores and pharmacies are nearby, while full-service grocery stores are about seven miles away in Las Cruces. Downtown Las Cruces is roughly 10 minutes by car.
Schools Serving Picacho Hills
Neighborhood Las Cruces Public Schools that serve Picacho Hills include Fairacres Elementary School, Picacho Middle School, and Mayfield High School.
Mayfield High School is rated B and offers 14 sports teams, including tennis, basketball, and football, as well as a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Athletic programs play a visible role in school life, and the long-standing football rivalry between the Mayfield Trojans and the Las Cruces Bulldawgs is a major community event that draws widespread participation from students, families, and alumni across Las Cruces.
Health care and Services
Three Crosses Regional Hospital is approximately seven miles east of Picacho Hills. Additional medical offices and professional services are located throughout Las Cruces.
Las Cruces International Airport is about eight miles away, while El Paso International Airport is approximately 56 miles southeast.
Who Lives in Picacho Hills?
Picacho Hills is often described as an upper-middle-income neighborhood, with many residents working in executive, management, and professional roles. The area is also frequently characterized as more retiree-friendly than many other New Mexico neighborhoods.
Residents include retirees, families, and remote-working professionals who value space, views, and a quiet setting. Some residents were born outside the United States, which contributes to a diverse community.
How Does Picacho Hills Compare to Other Las Cruces Neighborhoods?
Picacho Hills is one of the longest-established upscale neighborhoods in Las Cruces. Home prices are higher than in most other areas, reflecting location, views, and the presence of Picacho Hills Country Club.
Compared with east-side developments such as Sonoma Ranch, Picacho Hills offers a more mature setting in a west-side landscape near Picacho Peak. Its location outside city limits also results in lower property tax rates.
What Is the History of Picacho Hills?
Development of Picacho Hills began in the early 1990s, centered on the Picacho Hills Country Club. Growth occurred gradually over three decades, with new subdivisions added alongside original homes.
The area was recognized as a census-designated place before the 2020 census. Today, the neighborhood includes more than 800 homes, with continued expansion in adjacent Picacho Mountain developments.
Picacho Hills Neighborhood at a Glance
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FAQs About Picacho Hills Neighborhood
How much do homes cost in Picacho Hills?
Homes in Picacho Hills typically range from the mid-$300,000s to $975,000 and above, depending on home size, views, lot location, and subdivision. Prices are higher than many Las Cruces neighborhoods due to the area’s setting, views, and proximity to Picacho Hills Country Club. Buyers often see long-term value from stable property demand and lower county tax rates.
Interested buyers can explore current listings or connect with a local specialist to compare options.
Do you need to join Picacho Hills Country Club to live here?
No. Membership at Picacho Hills Country Club is optional and not required to purchase a home in the neighborhood. Many residents choose to join for golf, tennis, dining, and social events, while others enjoy living nearby without club membership. The flexibility appeals to buyers who want access without obligation. The restaurant is available to both members and non-members.
Are there HOA fees in Picacho Hills?
HOA fees vary by subdivision. Some areas have no HOA, while others charge approximately $42 to $118 per month. Fees may cover common-area maintenance, landscaping, or gated access. Because rules and costs differ, it’s important to confirm HOA details for any specific property before purchasing.
Are property taxes lower in Picacho Hills?
Yes. Picacho Hills is located outside Las Cruces city limits in unincorporated Doña Ana County, which typically results in lower property taxes compared with in-city neighborhoods. For many homeowners, this can translate into noticeable annual savings while still remaining close to city services.
Is Picacho Hills a good fit for families or retirees?
Picacho Hills attracts both families and retirees due to its quiet streets, outdoor access, and variety of home sizes. Families value nearby schools and recreation, while retirees appreciate the views, walkable feel, and access to Picacho Hills Country Club amenities. The neighborhood’s flexibility makes it appealing to individuals at different life stages.
This story sponsored by PICACHO HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
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Posted by LasCruces.com
