Cost of Living in Mora County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mora County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mora County ranks #349 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mora County, New Mexico
Mora County leads statewide affordability
Mora County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% is the strongest in New Mexico and approaches the national average, supported by a median household income of $50,178. At $785 monthly rent, Mora County residents enjoy relative affordability despite earning 33% less than the national median of $74,755.
Most affordable rental county in state
Mora County ranks as New Mexico's most affordable county for renters, with an 18.8% rent-to-income ratio below the state average of 19.4%. This rare combination of reasonable rents and relatively stable incomes makes Mora a standout for cost-conscious households in rural New Mexico.
Sweet spot between rural and affordable
Mora County's $785 rent and 18.8% affordability ratio position it between cheaper markets like Quay ($752) and pricier ones like San Juan ($917). Rio Arriba County matches Mora's affordability advantage, making both northeastern counties the most livable for renters in this rural cluster.
Renters and owners find balance
Mora County renters spend $785 monthly while homeowners spend $544—both reasonable proportions of the $50,178 median income. Renters dedicate 18.8% of gross income to housing; homeowners at median spend roughly 13%, making both tenure options accessible.
New Mexico's affordability sweet spot
Mora County combines the state's best rental affordability with stable median incomes, making it ideal for relocators prioritizing cost of living over urban amenities. With strong homeownership values at $119,900 and balanced renter affordability, Mora supports both long-term buyers and temporary residents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mora County
Affordability Verdict
Mora County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $785/month — about 18.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $785/month rent versus $544/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $241/month cheaper — a 31% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,314/year. With a median household income of $50,178, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Mora County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New Mexico, Mora County is less affordable than Chaves County by roughly 6% ($785/mo vs $838/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mora County
Rent Burden
18.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,171
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mora County
Median home value is $119,900. Estimated monthly cost: $957 vs. your max of $1,171.
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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