Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Belen, NM
Thinking of moving to Belen, NM? With a friendly small-town feel and a population of just over 7,000, Belen offers affordable living—with median home prices around $157,000 and average rents near $825. Residents enjoy short 26-minute commutes, abundant sunshine (78% sunny days), and a relaxed pace of life. While crime rates are higher than average, the city features convenient access to local health centers and schools, plus a mild climate perfect for those who love the outdoors. Explore Belen’s cost of living, housing, and community strengths to see if it’s the right fit for your next move.
Demographics - Belen, NM
Belen has a population of just over 7,000 residents, with a median age of 37.5 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is diverse, with over a third speaking a language other than English at home and a significant Hispanic or Latino presence. The city's moderate population density offers a mix of small-town charm and cultural vibrancy.
Population:
7,074
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.5
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
36.9%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.2%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
33.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Belen, NM?
Belen offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $157,000 and average rent at $825 per month. Utility and grocery costs are below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for families and individuals alike. State income tax rates are moderate, helping stretch your dollar further.
Median House Value:
$157,000
Gross Rent:
$825
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,045
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.1
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
55.6
Utilities:
89.4
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
92.7
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Belen, NM a safe place to live?
While Belen enjoys a close-knit community, it experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a 1 in 156 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 28 chance of property crime. Residents are encouraged to stay aware and take common-sense precautions. The city continues to work toward community safety and improvement.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
641
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,620
Crime Index:
4,261
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 156
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 28
Weather
What is the weather like in Belen, NM year-round?
Belen boasts a mild, sunny climate with 78% of days offering clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities. Winters are cool but not harsh, while summers bring warm days with highs in the low 90s. The area receives just over 8 inches of rainfall annually, supporting a dry and comfortable environment.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
8.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
Neighbors in Belen enjoy a friendly atmosphere, though the median household income is modest at $39,500 and the poverty rate is higher than average. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the area sees low public transit use with typical commute times around 26 minutes. Community ties are strong, reflecting the city's welcoming small-town spirit.
Median Income:
$26,400
Household Income:
$39,500
Family Income:
$44,000
Per Capita Income:
$18,400
Income Male:
$34,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
26.9%
Non English Speakers:
36.9%
Rent:
$825
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.1%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Belen, NM?
Education in Belen is served by public schools like Belen High School and Belen Middle School, which offer reasonable class sizes and a welcoming environment. Private education is available at St. Mary’s Catholic School, and higher education can be pursued at the nearby University of New Mexico’s Valencia Campus. The community values educational opportunities for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Belen High School
Street:
1619 W Delgado Ave
Phone:
505-966-1300
Students:
1,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.6
Name:
Belen Middle School
Street:
314 S 4th St
Phone:
505-966-1700
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary’s Catholic School
Street:
101 N 10th St
Phone:
505-864-0484
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico - Valencia Campus
City:
Los Lunas
State:
NM
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Belen residents have access to local healthcare through facilities like Presbyterian Hospital Belen and Valencia Family Health Center. With 88% health insurance coverage and 1.3 physicians per 1,000 people, basic medical needs are met within the city. Emergency services are available, supporting the health and well-being of the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Presbyterian Hospital Belen
Address:
609 Christopher Dr, Belen, NM 87002
Phone:
(505) 864-5451
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Valencia Family Health Center
Address:
1200 S Main St, Belen, NM 87002
Phone:
(505) 864-4080
Type:
Primary Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.1%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Belen, NM?
The Belen housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $157,000 and 69.5% owner occupancy. Rental options are available, and home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year. The city offers good opportunities for both buyers and renters seeking value in a small-town setting.
Median Home Price:
$157,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing for Belen residents are handled by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division in nearby Los Lunas. Services are accessible both in person and online, making DMV tasks convenient for locals. The office provides support for all standard motor vehicle needs.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
436 Courthouse Rd, Los Lunas, NM 87031
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.