Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Animas, NM
Considering a move to Animas, NM? This rural community of about 180 residents offers wide open spaces, affordable housing with median home prices around $95,000, and low rents. Crime rates are slightly above national averages, but you'll enjoy short 18-minute commutes, abundant sunshine (82% of days), and small class sizes at local schools. While amenities are basic and incomes are modest, Animas is perfect for those seeking quiet, affordable country living under New Mexico’s vast skies.
Demographics - Animas, NM
Demographics - Animas, NM
Animas is a rural community of about 180 residents, with a low population density and a median age of 46. The town is predominantly White (69%), with a notable 12.5% of residents speaking a non-English language at home, reflecting some cultural diversity. The balanced gender ratio and small population foster a close-knit, quiet environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
180
Density:
15 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.0
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
69.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
30.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Animas, NM?
Living in Animas is highly affordable, with median home values around $95,000 and average rents near $650 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making daily expenses for groceries, utilities, and healthcare manageable for most budgets. Lower property taxes and modest monthly costs make this community attractive for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$95,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.1
Grocery:
92.8
Housing:
59.7
Utilities:
90.2
Transportation:
93.3
Health Care:
85.0
Miscellaneous:
90.1
Crime
Is Animas, NM a safe place to live?
Animas experiences a slightly higher crime rate than national averages, with a 1 in 357 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 66 chance of property crime. While the overall crime index is elevated, the small-town setting helps foster a sense of community and safety awareness. Residents should remain vigilant, but crime issues are manageable with proper precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
280
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,520
Crime Index:
1,800
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 357
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 66
Weather
What is the weather like in Animas, NM year-round?
Animas enjoys a sunny climate, with 82% of days offering bright weather and mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below 28°F. Summers can be quite warm, reaching up to 97°F, and the area sees limited rainfall at just over 10 inches annually. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate plenty of sunshine and a generally dry environment.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
60°F

Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
79°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
97°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
10.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
82%
Neighbors
Most Animas households have modest incomes, with a median household income of $41,800 and a poverty rate around 17%. The community is well-educated, with over 80% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and residents enjoy short commute times averaging 18.5 minutes. With no public transportation and a relaxed rural pace, neighbors tend to know each other well, contributing to the town’s friendly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$41,800
Family Income:
$46,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,400
Income Male:
$30,800
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
12.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
6.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.7%
Bachelors or More:
16.2%
Education
How are the schools in Animas, NM?
Animas offers small, community-focused schools with low student-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention for local students. The district includes both elementary and high school options, while higher education is accessible at Western New Mexico University, located about 72 miles away. Families benefit from a supportive educational environment and close-knit school community.

Public Schools
Name:
Animas High School
Street:
1 Panther Blvd
Phone:
575-548-2296
Students:
74
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.4
Name:
Animas Elementary School
Street:
1 Panther Blvd
Phone:
575-548-2296
Students:
55
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.2

Colleges
Name:
Western New Mexico University
City:
Silver City
State:
NM
Distance:
72 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Animas includes nearby facilities like Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City, which provides full emergency and surgical services. The area has a relatively low physician-to-population ratio, but most residents (88%) have health insurance coverage. While specialized care may require travel, basic medical needs are reliably met within the region.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Gila Regional Medical Center
Address:
1313 E 32nd St, Silver City, NM 88061
Phone:
(575) 538-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.0%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Animas, NM?
The housing market in Animas is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $95,000 and high owner-occupancy rates at 72%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and home values have appreciated slightly in recent years. This environment offers excellent opportunities for both homebuyers and renters seeking affordable living in a rural setting.
Median Home Price:
$95,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Animas are served by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, with the main office located in Santa Fe. Essential vehicle registration and licensing services are available both online and in person. The state provides accessible resources for all transportation-related needs.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2540 Camino Edward Ortiz, Santa Fe, NM 87507
Phone:
1-888-683-4636
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.