Cost of Living in Hidalgo County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hidalgo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hidalgo County ranks #1,178 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hidalgo County, New Mexico
Hidalgo balances affordability with tight incomes
Hidalgo County renters spend 19.6% of household income on rent, essentially matching New Mexico's state average of 19.4% while earning $49,076—34% below the national median. The near-average burden ratio masks the real squeeze: residents earn significantly less than Americans elsewhere.
Hidalgo sits right at state average
With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.6%, Hidalgo County essentially matches New Mexico's 19.4% state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability distribution. Neither exceptional nor severely burdened, Hidalgo represents the state's median housing pressure.
Balanced between extremes
Hidalgo's $803 monthly rent and $49,076 income position it between wealthier Eddy County ($79,605 income) and poorer Guadalupe County ($40,149 income). The county offers a moderate mix of housing costs and local earning power—neither deal nor burden.
Moderate costs, moderate incomes
Renters pay $803 monthly while owners pay $537, with median home values around $114,000. At $49,076 median household income, housing consumes 19.6% of gross income, leaving residents roughly 80% of earnings for all other needs.
Hidalgo: the state's balanced option
If you're comparing New Mexico counties and want the mainstream experience—neither rock-bottom costs nor premium prices—Hidalgo delivers. It's a solid choice for families seeking affordable living without extreme rural isolation or boom-town energy.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hidalgo County
Affordability Verdict
Hidalgo County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $803/month representing approximately 19.6% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 34.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hidalgo County pay $803/month on average, compared to $537/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 33%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,014/year. With a median household income of $49,076, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Hidalgo County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hidalgo County sits 7% more expensive than Quay County ($752/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hidalgo County
Rent Burden
19.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,145
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hidalgo County
Median home value is $114,000. Estimated monthly cost: $910 vs. your max of $1,145.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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