Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cerro, NM
Considering a move to Cerro, NM? This rural community of about 420 residents offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices around $182,000 and rents near $780. Residents enjoy over 70% sunny days annually, low-density living, and a relaxed pace—average commutes are just under 25 minutes. Crime rates are lower than many urban areas, and education is served locally by small schools. Cerro is ideal for those seeking scenic northern New Mexico living with friendly neighbors and wide-open spaces.
Demographics - Cerro, NM
Cerro is a small, close-knit community of approximately 420 residents with a low population density of 19 people per square mile. The population is predominantly White and Hispanic or Latino, and about a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home. The median age is 50, reflecting a mature population with a balanced gender ratio.
Population:
420
Density:
19 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25%
Ethnic Composition
White:
59.0%
Others:
1.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cerro, NM?
Living costs in Cerro are notably affordable, with a median home value of $182,000 and average rents around $780. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, especially in housing and groceries, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. Utilities and taxes are moderate, contributing to a reasonable monthly budget for most households.
Median House Value:
$182,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.2
Grocery:
93.8
Housing:
73.9
Utilities:
102.0
Transportation:
90.5
Health Care:
87.0
Miscellaneous:
92.2
Crime
Is Cerro, NM a safe place to live?
Cerro experiences relatively low crime rates, with a 1 in 476 chance of violent crime and property crime being the more common risk. The overall crime index is significantly lower than many urban areas, offering residents a sense of safety and peace. Most incidents are minor, supporting Cerro's reputation as a secure rural community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,160
Crime Index:
1,370
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 86
Weather
What is the weather like in Cerro, NM year-round?
Residents enjoy a sunny climate with about 73% of days featuring clear skies each year. Winters are cold with lows around 10°F, while summers are pleasant and warm, reaching highs in the low 80s. Annual rainfall is modest, resulting in dry conditions and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
28°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Cerro's residents have a median household income of around $33,500, and about 23% live below the poverty line. The community values education, with over three-quarters having at least a high school diploma, and neighbors tend to have a friendly, small-town spirit. Commute times are reasonable at just under 25 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal.
Median Income:
$30,200
Household Income:
$33,500
Family Income:
$42,000
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$24,000
Income Female:
$18,800
Poverty Rate:
23.2%
Non English Speakers:
25%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.8%
Bachelors or More:
16.5%
Education
How are the schools in Cerro, NM?
Cerro is served by local public schools such as Questa Junior-Senior High and Alta Vista Elementary, both offering small class sizes for personalized learning. Higher education is accessible via the University of New Mexico – Taos, located about 32 miles away. The community places value on education, with options for all age groups.
Public Schools
Name:
Questa Junior-Senior High School
Street:
148 Wildcat Rd
Phone:
575-586-1604
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Name:
Alta Vista Elementary & Intermediate
Street:
404 North Hwy 522, Questa, NM 87556
Phone:
575-586-2051
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.3
Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico – Taos
City:
Taos
State:
NM
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met by facilities like Holy Cross Hospital in nearby Taos, offering both general and emergency services. The area has about 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 90% of the population has health insurance coverage. Healthcare access is reliable, and residents benefit from a supportive local network.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Holy Cross Hospital
Address:
1397 Weimer Rd, Taos, NM 87571
Phone:
(575) 758-8883
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
60.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cerro, NM?
Cerro's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $182,000 and two-bedroom rentals averaging $800. Around two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, reflecting a strong sense of community. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, and the area has low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$182,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Cerro residents are conveniently handled by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division in Taos, located at 1036 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. The DMV offers accessible support for licensing, registration, and other transportation needs. Residents can also utilize online resources for many services.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1036 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
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.