Cost of Living in Valencia County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Valencia County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Valencia County ranks #3,009 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Valencia County, New Mexico
Valencia's rents rival the national average
With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.9%, Valencia County residents spend slightly more on housing costs than the typical American household. The national median household income stands at $74,755, while Valencia's median income of $58,333 means renters here stretch their paychecks further to afford the county's median rent of $970 per month.
Nearly tied with New Mexico's median
Valencia's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% sits just above New Mexico's state average of 19.4%, placing the county in the middle tier of affordability statewide. The county's median rent of $970 exceeds the state average of $876, reflecting slightly higher housing costs than much of the rest of New Mexico.
How Valencia stacks up locally
Valencia County's median rent of $970 and median home value of $206,800 position it as a moderately priced option in central New Mexico. While specific neighbor county data isn't available for direct comparison, Valencia's affordability metrics suggest competitive housing costs for the region, offering residents a balance between access and expense.
Where Valencia incomes go
The typical Valencia household earning $58,333 annually dedicates nearly $970 monthly to rent—about 20% of gross income—while homeowners pay roughly $798 monthly for ownership costs. This split reveals that renters in Valencia carry a slightly heavier burden than homeowners, though both groups spend less than the national standard of 30% of income on housing.
Consider Valencia for moderate living costs
If you're weighing relocation options, Valencia County offers rent-to-income ratios below the national average and median home values under $210,000, making it accessible for both renters and buyers. The county's alignment with New Mexico's affordability profile means you'll find familiar cost structures while exploring a growing central New Mexico community.
Cost of Living Advisory: Valencia County
Affordability Verdict
Valencia County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $970/month — about 20.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Valencia County is $970/month, while owner costs run $798/month. Owning saves approximately $172/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,200/year. With a median household income of $58,333, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Valencia County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Valencia County sits 6% more expensive than San Juan County ($917/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Valencia County
Rent Burden
20.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,361
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
The median home in Valencia County may be a stretch
Median home value is $206,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,651 vs. your max of $1,361.
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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