New Mexico / Rio Arriba County

Moving to Chama, NM

Thinking of making a move to Chama, NM? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chama, NM

Considering a move to Chama, NM? This welcoming community of 910 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $165,000 and average rents near $795. Commute times average 15 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (70% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Chama's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Chama, NM

Chama has a population of 910 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 43 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 54% White, 0% Black, and 0% Asian residents, and over 23% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
910
Density
290 per sq mi
Median Age
42.7
Gender Ratio
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
23.0%

Ethnic Composition

White
53.5%
Black
0.2%
Asian
0.3%
Others
3.5%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Chama, NM?

The cost of living in Chama is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 81.0. Median home values are around $165,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $795. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$165,000
Gross Rent
$795
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$410
State Taxes
Low: 1.7%| High: 5.9%
Cost Of Living Index
81.0
Grocery
94.2
Housing
57.5
Utilities
91.4
Transportation
86.0
Health Care
83.7
Miscellaneous
88.5

Crime

Is Chama, NM a safe place to live?

Chama is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 240 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 66. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in New Mexico.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
240
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,520
Crime Index
1,760
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 417
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 66

Weather

What is the weather like in Chama, NM year-round?

Chama experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 80°F and cold winters dipping to 7°F. The area receives about 17 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 70% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
7°F
Max
38°F

Summer

Min
38°F
Max
80°F

Spring

Min
21°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
22°F
Max
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches
16.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
70%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $43,500 and a low poverty rate of 18.7%. Over 85% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 20% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 15 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$32,400
Household Income
$43,500
Family Income
$52,000
Per Capita Income
$22,100
Income Male
$28,000
Income Female
$26,000
Poverty Rate
18.7%
Non English Speakers
23.0%
Rent
$795
Unemployment Rate
7.4%
Public Transport Usage
0.5%
Commute Time
15.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
85.1%
Bachelors or More
19.5%

Education

How are the schools in Chama, NM?

Chama offers quality education options, with public schools like Chama Elementary School and Escalante Middle/High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Northern New Mexico College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Chama Elementary School
Street
1504 NM-17
Phone
575-756-2256
Students
120
Student Teacher Ratio
12.5
Name
Escalante Middle/High School
Street
1584 NM-17
Phone
575-756-3661
Students
170
Student Teacher Ratio
11.0

Colleges

Name
Northern New Mexico College
City
Española
State
NM
Distance
50 miles
Students
1,100

Healthcare

Chama residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Chama Valley Clinic and Espanola Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 people and 89.1% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Chama Valley Clinic
Address
211 Pine Ave, Chama, NM 87520
Phone
(575) 756-2301
Type
Primary Care Clinic
Emergency Services
No
Name
Espanola Hospital
Address
1010 Spruce St, Española, NM 87532
Phone
(505) 753-7111
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage
89.1%
Health Care Index
67.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Chama, NM?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $165,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 78%. The market has seen a 3.4% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 8.9%. Chama offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$795
Owner Occupied Rate
78.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate
8.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.4%
New Construction Rate
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Chama handle vehicle services through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Santa Fe. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
New Mexico
Department
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address
1100 South St. Francis Drive, Santa Fe, NM 87504
Phone
1-888-683-4636

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.

FAQs About Moving to Chama, NM

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Chama, review the core fields on this page: population 910, median home value $165,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $795, commute time 15.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 70%.

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