* "Rural Cuba" (1950): This book examines the social and economic structure of rural Cuba, offering a detailed analysis of the island's agrarian system, rural poverty, and the impact of colonialism.
* "The Spanish-Speaking People of the Southwest" (1946): This study explores the cultural, social, and economic experiences of the Hispanic population in the southwestern United States.
* "The Negro in the United States" (1944): Nelson contributed to this book, providing insights into the social and economic conditions of African Americans in the United States.
* "The Farm and the City" (1940): This book explores the relationship between rural and urban areas, analyzing the social and economic forces that connect them.
* "The Structure of a Rural Community" (1934): This work is a comprehensive study of the social organization of a rural community in the American Southwest.
In addition to these books, Nelson authored numerous articles and essays on various topics, including rural sociology, social change, and social policy. His research has had a lasting impact on the field of sociology and has helped to shape our understanding of rural communities, particularly in the Southwest.