The open pit mine is still operating to supply copper not only for big industry, but also for all those cell phones. Copper was originally mined here by the Spaniards. Are you wondering why they didn't name it Copper City? Well, silver was discovered at Chloride Flat, and that led to the founding of the town in 1870. The founders laid it out so fast, though, that they didn't take into account the way the water washed through the old Apache campground following the summer rains. It gave new meaning to the term "gully washer."
There's more to Silver City than an open-pit copper mine, a rip-roaring Wild West history of crime and outlaws, and street numbers on the wrong side of the street! Those things are interesting enough, though, and if you go to this little city in southwestern New Mexico, you can't miss any of them
The open pit mine is still operating to supply copper not only for big industry, but also for all those cell phones. Copper was originally mined here by the Spaniards. Are you wondering why they didn't name it Copper City? Well, silver was discovered at Chloride Flat, and that led to the founding of the town in 1870. The founders laid it out so fast, though, that they didn't take into account the way the water washed through the old Apache campground following the summer rains. It gave new meaning to the term "gully washer."
There's more to Silver City than an open-pit copper mine, a rip-roaring Wild West history of crime and outlaws, and street numbers on the wrong side of the street! Those things are interesting enough, though, and if you go to this little city in southwestern New Mexico, you can't miss any of them. But there's a lot that's right about Silver City today.
Moving to Silver City
As the home to Western New Mexico State University, Silver City is known as a serene, walkable smaller town, and the 21st largest in a sparsely populated state. Its residents are primarily employed in healthcare, education, accommodation, construction, mining and retail fields.
Renting an apartment is relatively easy in Silver City, with a nice mix of owners and renters throughout its four constituent neighborhoods. The vacancy rate of places to rent in town is somewhat higher than the rest of the state, so you will unlikely encounter wait lists or difficulty signing a lease. You may also find short-term leases for even luxury apartments in Silver City. As in any other city, keep your credit score as high as possible, and pay your bills on time.
The Neighborhoods in Town
There are plenty of great neighborhoods for new residents to hang their south of the border hat! Those looking to move into Silver City should be sure to do as much research as possible before resting their weary boots for good.
Cliff-Tyrone: This is the largest and most remote of Silver City neighborhoods, comprised almost totally of owner-occupied homes and mobile homes. It is west of the city. The Gila National Forest is in this neighborhood.
Little Walnut Village: Also a rural neighborhood of homes and mobile homes, there are a few small apartment buildings in Little Walnut Village.
Town Center: This original part of town is the hip section. It still provides plenty of peace and quiet, but you can get out and socialize, walk to most places you want to go, and find that studio apartment for rent. You can also find two-bedroom apartments in this area.
Western New Mexico U: The area close to campus includes homes, townhouses, smaller apartment buildings and newer apartment complexes with modern amenities. Look here for apartment rentals if you want to be near the cultural events held on campus. Stop by Java the Hut in the morning for your cup of joe.
What to Do if You Live in Silver City
Residents make their own good times here -- and there seems to be a festival or special event planned almost every weekend all year long. From Blues Festivals to Rodeos, Billy the Kid Days to Hummingbird Festivals, Harvest Days to Victorian Christmas and Art Fairs to Bicycle Tours, you won't die of boredom.
There's even a Taste of Downtown Silver City Celebration and a Championship BBQ and Green Chile Cook-Off to tickle your taste buds. For adventure of a different kind, head to Tyrone, the most impressive architect-designed ghost town you will ever see.
Also, this is New Mexico -- the scenery is spectacular with rock formations, canyons, cliff dwellings, wilderness, hiking trails, and fishing lakes and streams all within easy distance of town. The Gila Wilderness is a popular destination. Immerse yourself in ancient culture and ruins, or simply enjoy camping out and looking at the brilliant stars in the sky above.
