Cost of Living in Catron County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Catron County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Catron County, New Mexico
Catron's ultra-affordable rents defy national trends
Renters in Catron County spend just 19.1% of income on rent, essentially matching the national baseline, despite earning only $46,439 annually—38% below the national median. This rural county's $740 median rent is remarkably low, making housing one of the least burdensome expenses for households here.
Rural gem ranks among state's most affordable
Catron County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% ranks it among New Mexico's best for affordability, beating the state average of 19.4%. With median rent at $740—15% below the state average of $876—this remote southwestern county offers genuine economic relief for cost-conscious families.
Catron competes on price with isolated rural areas
Catron's $740 rent undercuts nearby Cibola County ($724) by just $16, placing both among New Mexico's cheapest housing markets. This rural pocket rivals De Baca County ($727) for lowest median rent, though all three counties share limited job markets and services.
Ownership costs drop dramatically in Catron
While renters pay $740 monthly, homeowners in Catron spend just $397—making ownership 46% cheaper than renting, an unusual reversal of typical patterns. At median income of $46,439, housing consumes roughly 19% of household budgets whether renting or owning.
Catron appeals to remote workers prioritizing low costs
If you can work remotely or bring income from elsewhere, Catron's rock-bottom housing and living expenses offer exceptional savings potential. The trade-off is geographic isolation and a small job market—ideal for retirees, freelancers, or those seeking an off-grid lifestyle.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Catron County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,084
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.3%
of gross income
The median home in Catron County may be a stretch
Median home value is $171,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,372 vs. your max of $1,084.
Rent Affordability Guide
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.