Cost of Living in McKinley County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McKinley County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McKinley County ranks #3,076 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 2%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McKinley County, New Mexico
McKinley County renters face tight affordability
McKinley County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.8% exceeds the U.S. average affordability threshold, driven by a median household income of just $44,496 against the national $74,755. Renters here pay $810 monthly, leaving limited breathing room in budgets already 40% below national median earnings.
Least affordable rental market in state
McKinley County ranks among New Mexico's least affordable counties for renters, with a 21.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeding the state average of 19.4%. Despite rents at $810—below the state median of $876—residents' lower incomes push affordability stress higher than most New Mexico peers.
Priciest rents in rural New Mexico cluster
McKinley County's $810 rent ties with Mora County and exceeds most rural neighbors like Quay ($752) and Luna ($685). San Juan County ($917) and Otero County ($926) push rents even higher, making McKinley's market relatively mid-range for the region.
Homeownership dramatically cheaper here
McKinley County presents an unusual affordability profile: renters spend $810 monthly while homeowners spend just $351, among the lowest ownership costs in the state. For homeowners with median incomes of $44,496, that translates to just 9.5% of gross income toward housing—a sharp contrast to renters at 21.8%.
Home buyers find bargains; renters beware
McKinley County's median home value of $72,100 offers exceptional buying opportunity for those with down payment savings, but renters face above-average affordability pressure. If relocating, budget $810+ monthly for rent or prioritize homeownership programs to access the county's dramatic ownership cost advantages.
Cost of Living Advisory: McKinley County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McKinley County is affordable. The median rent is $810/month against a median household income of $44,496, putting rent at 21.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in McKinley County is $810/month, while owner costs run $351/month. Owning saves approximately $459/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $15,043/year. With a median household income of $44,496, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in McKinley County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New Mexico, McKinley County is less affordable than Roosevelt County by roughly 6% ($810/mo vs $863/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McKinley County
Rent Burden
21.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,038
per month
Owner Cost Burden
9.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McKinley County
Median home value is $72,100. Estimated monthly cost: $576 vs. your max of $1,038.
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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