Clovis NM

Clovis, NM – Nestled on the high plains of eastern New Mexico, Clovis is a welcoming city known for its rich history, friendly vibe, and strong community spirit. From its roots in early railroad and agriculture to its ties to rock 'n' roll pioneers, Clovis blends small-town charm with a deep cultural heritage. Whether you're visiting for its plains scenery, local eateries, or historic landmarks, Clovis offers a laid-back and memorable experience.

• Population: ~38,000
• Weather: Sunny and semi-arid; warm summers (60-95°F), cool winters (20-55°F).
• Places To Visit: Norman Petty Recording Studio, Hillcrest Park Zoo, Clovis Carver Public Library, Ned Houk Park, Blackwater Draw Museum.
• Top Activities: Learning music history, attending the Clovis Music Festival, biking in the park, enjoying local rodeos, exploring nature trails.
• Famous Food: Green chile cheeseburgers, Southwest-style burritos, BBQ brisket, homemade pies, and classic diner fare.

Clovis, New Mexico, is a vibrant city known for its strong presence in agriculture, military, and healthcare. With a mix of rural charm and growing industry, Clovis offers great career options for job seekers. Below are some of the most in-demand careers in the area.

Top 5 Jobs in Clovis, NM

Clovis, New Mexico, may be a smaller city, but it packs a punch when it comes to places where students can unwind, relax, and enjoy their free time. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, chill vibes, or cultural experiences, Clovis offers something for everyone.

Hillcrest Park – When you want to escape into nature, Hillcrest Park is the spot. With its serene walking trails, picnic areas, and a zoo, it's perfect for a relaxing day outdoors with friends.

Clovis Aquatic Center – Take a dip in the pool or just lounge by the water. The center offers a great way to cool off during the warm months and is a fun spot to hang out.

Norman Petty Studios – For music enthusiasts, a visit to these historic studios, where Buddy Holly recorded, is a must. Dive into the rich musical heritage of Clovis with a guided tour.

Wildcat Paintball – Gather a group and experience the thrill of paintball. It's a fun and exciting way to blow off steam and engage in some friendly competition.

Java Loft – A cozy coffee shop where you can enjoy a good cup of joe, catch up with friends, or even get some studying done in a laid-back atmosphere.

North Plains Mall – While Clovis has a smaller shopping scene, North Plains Mall offers a selection of stores and a movie theater, providing a convenient spot to shop and catch the latest films.

Stellar Family Entertainment – For classic fun like bowling and arcade games, this is the place to be. It’s a perfect option for a casual night out with friends.

From outdoor activities to cultural landmarks, Clovis offers a variety of spots where students can relax, have fun, and take a break from their studies. Whether you're exploring a local park or enjoying some entertainment with friends, you're sure to find something you'll love in this charming city.

Clovis, New Mexico, is a modest city with a strong connection to education and community development. It offers quality educational opportunities through local colleges and universities, including accessible public institutions and nearby private options. While Clovis may not be home to large universities, it provides essential pathways to higher education in eastern New Mexico.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Clovis

Clovis Community College – The primary public institution in the city, this college offers associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs in nursing, business, and technology. Known for affordable tuition and strong community ties, CCC prepares students for immediate careers or continued education.

Eastern New Mexico University – Portales Campus – Located about 20 miles from Clovis, ENMU is a regional public university offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It’s well-known for its education, business, and music programs, and serves many Clovis residents.

Eastern New Mexico University–Roswell (ENMU-R) – Although over an hour away, ENMU-R is a branch of the ENMU system and provides career and technical training as well as degrees in nursing, automotive, and aviation technology.

New Mexico State University – Main Campus (Las Cruces) – Though not in Clovis, NMSU is a top public research university in New Mexico. Many Clovis students transfer here after starting at local colleges like CCC.

Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX) – Located just across the Texas border, about two hours from Clovis, Texas Tech is a major public university offering extensive programs in engineering, agriculture, health sciences, and more. It’s a popular option for Clovis students seeking a large university experience.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Clovis

Lubbock Christian University (Lubbock, TX) – A faith-based private university about two hours from Clovis, LCU is known for its student-focused environment and strong programs in education, business, and the sciences.

Wayland Baptist University – Clovis Campus – This private Christian university offers degree-completion and graduate programs tailored for working adults in Clovis. Popular areas of study include education, business, and Christian ministry.

Abilene Christian University (Abilene, TX) – While further away, ACU attracts students from the Clovis area due to its strong ties to the Churches of Christ and respected programs in communications, health professions, and theology.

University of the Southwest (Hobbs, NM) – A private Christian university located about three hours from Clovis, offering online and in-person degree programs in education, business administration, and counseling.

Western Heritage University (Santa Fe, NM) – Though small and more distant, this private institution attracts adult learners with career-focused programs in business, management, and education, appealing to many non-traditional students from Clovis.

Clovis, New Mexico, may be a smaller city, but it is home to several quality high schools offering strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities. Whether public or private, these schools are committed to helping students succeed in college and beyond.

Top Public High Schools in Clovis, NM

• Clovis High School – The largest high school in the area, Clovis High offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, athletic programs, and career pathways to prepare students for higher education and careers.
• Clovis Christian School (Upper School Section) – While primarily private, the upper school has a unique structure and receives significant community support, blending traditional academics with faith-based values and college-readiness programs.
• Choices Alternative High School – This school provides a non-traditional setting for students who need flexible learning options. With small class sizes and individualized support, students receive a second chance to succeed academically.
• Clovis Municipal Schools Early College High School – This program within the public school system allows students to earn college credits while completing their high school education. It's ideal for those seeking a head start on their college path.
• Clovis Freshman Academy – Though it serves only 9th-grade students, this public school is an important component of Clovis's education system, focusing on core subjects to prepare students for upper-grade success at Clovis High School.

Top Private High Schools in Clovis, NM

• Clovis Christian School – A leading private school serving students from preschool to high school. The high school division offers a faith-based curriculum with honors courses, sports, and dedicated college prep resources.
• – This private institution blends academics with Christian values. It emphasizes character development, leadership, and academic excellence in a nurturing environment.
• Sandia Baptist Academy – A small private Christian school that offers individualized instruction and a close-knit community environment. It focuses on preparing students spiritually and academically.
• Legacy Christian Academy – Though smaller in size, this school is known for its supportive teaching staff and Christ-centered education. It provides solid academic grounding along with opportunities in music and athletics.
• Bethel Christian School – A private school that offers a strong religious foundation paired with a commitment to student discipline and academic achievement. It is ideal for families seeking a moral focus in education.

Clovis, New Mexico is a small city known for its friendly community and strong high school athletics, but it does not have any major professional sports teams. However, sports remain a big part of life in Clovis, with local fans cheering on regional and national teams. The closest professional teams are located in cities like Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Lubbock, Texas. These cities offer opportunities to catch games from minor league baseball teams and NCAA college athletics, which many Clovis residents support.

⚾ Baseball – Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple-A – MiLB)

• Albuquerque Isotopes – Located a few hours from Clovis, the Isotopes are the Triple-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. They play in the Pacific Coast League and offer exciting games in a family-friendly environment at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park.

🏈 College Football – Texas Tech Red Raiders & New Mexico Lobos (NCAA)

• Texas Tech Red Raiders – Based in Lubbock, Texas, just over two hours from Clovis, the Red Raiders play in the Big 12 Conference. They have a passionate fan base and have produced NFL talents like Patrick Mahomes.
• New Mexico Lobos – Representing the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, the Lobos compete in the Mountain West Conference. While not a powerhouse, they offer competitive NCAA Division I football and basketball programs.

🏀 College Basketball – Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds (NCAA Division II)

• Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) – Located in Portales, NM, about 20 miles from Clovis, ENMU features sports teams known as the Greyhounds. Their men’s and women’s basketball programs compete in the Lone Star Conference and spotlight local talent from around the region.

🏁 Local Sporting Scene – High School Athletics

• Clovis High School Wildcats – High school sports are a major part of the community in Clovis. The Wildcats are known for their competitive football, basketball, and track teams. Local games draw large crowds who are proud to support their student athletes.

While Clovis does not have big-league teams, the city's love for sports is strong. Residents often travel to nearby cities for professional games or rally behind college and high school teams with impressive loyalty. Whether it’s baseball, football, or basketball, there’s always a game to follow in and around Clovis.

Clovis, New Mexico may be a smaller city, but it’s packed with charm, history, and surprises. From musical legends to a rich agricultural heritage, here are some fun facts that make Clovis an exciting place to explore:

1. Home of the Norman Petty Studios – Clovis gained fame in the 1950s thanks to the legendary recording studio where Buddy Holly recorded some of his biggest hits.
2. Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll Classics – Many music historians call Clovis one of the birthplaces of early rock music due to the artists who recorded there.
3. Dinosaur Discoveries – The area around Clovis is rich in prehistoric fossils. In fact, Clovis is linked to the famous Clovis Point, a type of ancient spearhead used over 13,000 years ago.
4. Peanut Capital – Clovis is surrounded by farms and is a big-time producer of Valencia peanuts, known for their sweet flavor and small size.
5. U.S. Military Stronghold – Cannon Air Force Base, just outside the city, plays a key role in America's air defense and brings in a diverse global population.
6. High Plains Music Fest – Every year, Clovis hosts multiple music events that pay tribute to its rich audio heritage – a treat for rock and country fans alike!
7. Historic Railroad Hub – Clovis was once a key junction for the Santa Fe Railway, helping transport goods and passengers across the southwest.
8. New Mexico’s Country Sound – Many country artists, including Roy Orbison, were drawn to Clovis for its signature sound and recording scenes.
9. Chamber of Commerce’s “Draggin’ Main” – A local tradition in Clovis, “draggin’ Main Street” celebrates the classic American car culture and small-town spirit every June.
10. Shooting for the Stars – In 2021, Clovis was used as a backdrop for several independent films, showing off its Western landscape and open skies.