Cost of Living in San Juan County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How San Juan County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
San Juan County ranks #2,957 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in San Juan County, New Mexico
San Juan County rents strain budgets
San Juan County residents spend 20.8% of their income on rent, exceeding New Mexico's 19.4% state average and approaching affordability stress levels. At $917 monthly rent—the highest among these eight counties—San Juan County renters earn $53,020 median income, requiring careful budgeting for housing costs.
Highest rents in state sample
San Juan County's $917 monthly rent ranks highest among these rural New Mexico counties and exceeds the state median of $876. Despite the affordability pressure, San Juan's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio remains manageable compared to the state's least affordable counties.
Premium pricing in northwestern region
San Juan County's $917 rent represents the highest in this sample, followed closely by Otero County at $926. This northwestern county commands a price premium over rural peers like Quay ($752) and Luna ($685), likely reflecting stronger regional economic activity and development.
Renters carry heavier burden than owners
San Juan County renters pay $917 monthly while homeowners spend $751—a significant difference reflecting varied affordability between tenures. With median income of $53,020, renters dedicate 20.8% of gross income to housing while homeowners spend roughly 16.9%, making ownership notably more affordable.
Premium market for homebuyers
San Juan County's median home value of $185,100—the second-highest in this group—justifies premium rents and reflects stronger regional economic fundamentals. Relocators with homeownership plans may find San Juan's market growth potential worth the premium; renters should budget carefully for the county's above-average housing costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: San Juan County
Affordability Verdict
San Juan County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $917/month representing approximately 20.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in San Juan County pay $917/month on average, compared to $751/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 18%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,186/year. With a median household income of $53,020, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in San Juan County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within New Mexico, San Juan County is less affordable than Valencia County by roughly 5% ($917/mo vs $970/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in San Juan County
Rent Burden
20.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,237
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
The median home in San Juan County may be a stretch
Median home value is $185,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,478 vs. your max of $1,237.
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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