Cost of Living in Sierra County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sierra County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sierra County, New Mexico
Sierra's low rents mask deep income inequality
Sierra County's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks among New Mexico's worst despite median rents of only $695—well below the national norm. The problem: median household income of $37,840 trails the U.S. average by $36,915, making even modest rents a proportional burden.
Second-least affordable county in New Mexico
Sierra's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds New Mexico's state average of 19.4%, placing it among the state's most stressed housing markets. The county's rural economy struggles to generate incomes sufficient to offset even modest housing costs.
Cheap rents, but income disparity tells the real story
Sierra's $695 median rent undercuts Socorro County ($653) only slightly and trails most regional competitors. However, Sierra's $37,840 median income represents the lowest earnings in the region, making even bargain rents disproportionately expensive.
Tight household budgets stretched by rent
Sierra residents earning $37,840 annually spend $695 monthly on rent—22% of gross income, the highest proportional burden in the region. Homeowners fare slightly better at $464 monthly, though homes average only $144,800, reflecting limited local economic opportunity.
Sierra demands careful financial planning
Consider Sierra County only if you have remote income or retirement savings, as local wages cannot comfortably support even modest housing costs. The county offers affordability in absolute dollars, but proportional rent burden ranks among New Mexico's most challenging.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sierra County
Rent Burden
22.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$883
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
The median home in Sierra County may be a stretch
Median home value is $144,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,156 vs. your max of $883.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.