Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Artesia, NM
Considering a move to Artesia, NM? This friendly city of 12,121 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $181K and rents averaging $830. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 17 minutes, sunny skies 74% of the year, and a close-knit community. Artesia features a modest crime rate, access to local healthcare, and public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. Explore Artesia for its low housing costs, easy-going lifestyle, and welcoming Southwestern charm.
Demographics - Artesia, NM
Demographics - Artesia, NM
Artesia, New Mexico is a close-knit community of just over 12,000 residents, with a median age of 32.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The city has a diverse population, with over half identifying as White and nearly a quarter speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and youthful demographic make Artesia attractive for families and young professionals alike.
Population:
12,121
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
53.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
44.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Artesia, NM?
Artesia boasts a cost of living index well below the national average, making it an affordable choice for new residents. With median home values around $180,900 and average rents at $830, housing is particularly budget-friendly. The city also enjoys reasonable utility and transportation costs, helping stretch your dollar further.
Median House Value:
$180,900
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,260
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,260
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.3
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
70.9
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
88.5
Health Care:
88.3
Miscellaneous:
92.8
Crime
Is Artesia, NM a safe place to live?
Residents of Artesia experience a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 286 chance of being affected by violent crime and property crime occurring more frequently at 1 in 47. While safety is generally in line with similarly sized communities, it's wise for newcomers to stay informed and take standard precautions. The city’s overall crime index reflects a community mindful of security and neighborhood cohesion.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
350
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,500
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 286
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Artesia, NM year-round?
Artesia enjoys a sunny and semi-arid climate, with 74% of days filled with sunshine and only about 13 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are mild with lows around 26°F, while summers can be hot, reaching highs near 95°F. The pleasant weather supports an active outdoor lifestyle nearly year-round.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
59°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
79°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
95°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
74%
Neighbors
The Artesia community features a median household income of $66,230 and a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.7%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 17 minutes, and over 80% have at least a high school education. The area’s modest poverty rate and strong sense of community contribute to Artesia’s friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$66,230
Family Income:
$72,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,100
Income Male:
$45,900
Income Female:
$32,400
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
23.5%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
16.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.5%
Bachelors or More:
18.1%
Education
How are the schools in Artesia, NM?
Public education in Artesia offers favorable student-teacher ratios, with Artesia High School and Zia Intermediate School supporting student growth and achievement. Private school options and nearby college opportunities, such as New Mexico State University in Carlsbad, provide additional educational pathways. The city’s commitment to learning is evident in its range of accessible options for families.

Public Schools
Name:
Artesia High School
Street:
1006 W Richardson Ave
Phone:
575-746-9816
Students:
830
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.3
Name:
Zia Intermediate School
Street:
1401 W. Center Ave
Phone:
575-746-3585
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9

Private Schools
Name:
Faith Baptist Christian Academy
Street:
401 S 20th St
Phone:
575-746-5912
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
New Mexico State University – Carlsbad
City:
Carlsbad
State:
NM
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Artesia is served by Artesia General Hospital, offering comprehensive general and emergency care to residents. The city maintains a high health insurance coverage rate of 90.2%, with about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people. Access to healthcare is reliable, supporting the well-being of families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Artesia General Hospital
Address:
702 N 13th St, Artesia, NM 88210
Phone:
(575) 748-3333
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
68.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Artesia, NM?
Artesia’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $180,900 and an average two-bedroom rent of $830. About 64% of homes are owner-occupied, and the city has experienced steady home appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates point to a healthy local real estate scene.
Median Home Price:
$180,900
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Artesia are managed by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located on West Main Street. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other DMV needs locally or access many services online. The office provides helpful resources for both new arrivals and longtime locals.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1700 W. Main St, Artesia, NM 88210
Phone:
(575) 746-2317
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.