Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Costilla, NM
Considering a move to Costilla, NM? This small, welcoming community of 221 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $112,000 and average rents at $750. Enjoy a peaceful, rural lifestyle with low housing costs, high homeownership, and over 70% sunny days each year. Commute times average just 25 minutes, and while educational and healthcare options are limited, you'll find a close-knit, quiet environment surrounded by scenic northern New Mexico landscapes.
Demographics - Costilla, NM
Demographics - Costilla, NM
Costilla is a small, close-knit community of 221 residents with a median age of 57, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White, and about one-third of residents speak a language other than English at home, offering some cultural diversity. Its low population density and balanced gender ratio create a peaceful, uncrowded rural setting.
Population:
221
Density:
16 per sq mi
Median Age:
57.4
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
34%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.5%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
17.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Costilla, NM?
Costilla’s cost of living is notably affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $112,000. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are all reasonably priced, making it budget-friendly for homeowners and renters alike. State taxes are moderate, and overall expenses are well-suited for those seeking economical rural living.
Median House Value:
$112,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$345
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.2
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
66.1
Utilities:
97.9
Transportation:
84.2
Health Care:
89.3
Miscellaneous:
87.6
Crime
Is Costilla, NM a safe place to live?
Costilla experiences relatively low violent crime, with the chance of being a victim about 1 in 339, but property crime is more common at 1 in 47. The overall crime index suggests that while residents enjoy general safety, it’s wise to take precautions against theft. The area maintains a small-town feel where neighbors often look out for one another.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
295
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,395
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 339
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Costilla, NM year-round?
Residents enjoy a sunny climate with about 73% sunny days annually and average rainfall just over 14 inches. Summers are warm but comfortable, while winters can be cold, with lows dipping to 5°F. The weather supports a peaceful outdoor lifestyle, ideal for those who appreciate distinct seasons and plenty of sunshine.

Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
22°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
20°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
14.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
The median household income in Costilla is modest at $31,800, and about 28% of residents live below the poverty line. The community values education, with nearly 79% having at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a manageable 25 minutes. The area tends to have long-term residents who value the rural, supportive environment.
Median Income:
$24,500
Household Income:
$31,800
Family Income:
$36,200
Per Capita Income:
$17,250
Income Male:
$27,000
Income Female:
$19,500
Poverty Rate:
27.5%
Non English Speakers:
34%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Costilla, NM?
Educational options in Costilla include public schooling through Questa Junior/Senior High School, which offers small class sizes and a supportive environment. For higher education, the University of New Mexico - Taos is about 38 miles away and provides a range of academic programs. While private schools are not available locally, the area is committed to fostering educational growth within its rural setting.

Public Schools
Name:
Questa Junior/Senior High School
Street:
2556A State Highway 522, Questa, NM 87556
Phone:
575-586-1604
Students:
175
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.3

Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico - Taos
City:
Taos
State:
NM
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Costilla is limited locally, but residents can reach Holy Cross Hospital in Taos for general and emergency services. About 86% of residents have health insurance, and there are 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people, reflecting the area’s rural character. Health care services are basic but accessible within a reasonable drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Holy Cross Hospital
Address:
1397 Weimer Rd, Taos, NM 87571
Phone:
(575) 758-8883
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.1%
Health Care Index:
66.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Costilla, NM?
The housing market in Costilla is affordable, with a median home price of $112,000 and high owner occupancy at over 80%. Rental options are available, with average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $750 and a low foreclosure rate. Modest appreciation and minimal new construction make it ideal for those seeking stable, long-term residency.
Median Home Price:
$112,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.1%
DMV Information
Residents of Costilla are served by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest main office located in Santa Fe. Essential DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration, can be accessed online or by phone for added convenience. The state DMV offers helpful resources to streamline vehicle-related needs for new and current 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
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.