With a population of more than 54,000, the greatest concentration of people is under age 19, ensuring a positive stream of workers for the future labor supply. Hobbs is a long-time oil and gas town that propels the state’s oil and gas industry. Lea County is projected to see a 15% increase in population over the next two decades. Located at the heart of the Permian Basin, Hobbs, New Mexico, is the largest city in Lea County – which is among the top three fastest-growing counties in New Mexico.