New Mexico is the only state in a nine-state region to see negative job growth in 2012, with Dona Ana County seeing more than half of the jobs lost, according to the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.

In total, New Mexico lost 4,800 jobs and the greater Las Cruces area lost 2,500 jobs.

As of November, the unemployment rate in Las Cruces stood at 6.6 percent.

The private sector in the Las Cruces area lost around 500 jobs. Transportation, education and health services all lost around 100 jobs each.

The public sector and government jobs were the only industries to see job growth in the county.

New Mexico was compared to nine other states in the report including Texas, Arizona and Colorado but the Land of Enchantment is the only state reporting negative job growth for 2012, at negative .06 percent.

Susie Morales lives in Las Cruces and told KFOX14 she hasn't worked since June, leaving her behind on her mortgage and in need of help from local charities.

"I go to the soup kitchen to go get food and go to the churches to try and get assistance for electricity," Morales said. "Now, I'm looking for work and it's hard to find it. I've been looking everywhere."

Las Crucen Johnny Hill said his wife has also been unable to find work in the city for more than four months.

"She's an experienced woman, you know, and couldn't find a job here nowhere," Hill said. "Most people go to El Paso to find work."

The Department of Workforce Solutions said at least new temporary jobs will be coming to the Las Cruces area. Residential homes in White Sands Missile Range will be going solar and will need electrical and construction workers.