Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Bayard, NM
Considering a move to Fort Bayard, NM? This small, historic community of about 350 offers a relaxed lifestyle with affordable housing—median home prices are around $142,000 and average rent is just $680. Residents enjoy a mild, sunny climate (74% sunny days), low utility costs, and short commute times of about 17 minutes. While educational attainment and incomes are modest, the town is close to Silver City’s amenities and healthcare, and offers a peaceful, rural environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Demographics - Fort Bayard, NM
Demographics - Fort Bayard, NM
Fort Bayard is a small community of 350 residents, notable for its mature population with a median age of 51.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White (60.5%) but also has a significant proportion of residents from other backgrounds, and nearly one in four people speak a language other than English at home. This diverse yet close-knit atmosphere offers a welcoming environment for newcomers seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
350
Density:
320 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
60.5%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
37.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Bayard, NM?
Living in Fort Bayard is highly affordable, with a median home value of $142,000 and average rent around $680 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, and utilities, groceries, and healthcare are all reasonably priced, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals or retirees. State tax rates are moderate, helping residents keep more of their income.
Median House Value:
$142,000
Gross Rent:
$680
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.6
Grocery:
88.1
Housing:
67.5
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
93.2
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Fort Bayard, NM a safe place to live?
Fort Bayard experiences a relatively low violent crime rate, with about 335 incidents per 100,000 residents, but property crimes are more common, giving a 1 in 48 chance of being affected. While the overall crime index suggests residents should take basic precautions, the town remains generally peaceful, especially compared to larger urban areas. Safety-conscious movers will appreciate the small-town environment and close community ties.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
335
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,435
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 298
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Bayard, NM year-round?
Residents of Fort Bayard enjoy a mild, sunny climate with 74% of days bringing sunshine each year. Winters are cool but not harsh, with lows averaging 24°F, while summers are warm but rarely extreme, with highs near 90°F. The area receives about 16.6 inches of rainfall annually, making it comfortable for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
74%
Neighbors
Households in Fort Bayard have a median income of around $41,200, with about 20% living below the poverty line, reflecting a modest but stable local economy. Most adults have completed high school, and commutes are short, averaging just 17.5 minutes. The community is friendly and tight-knit, with low public transit usage and a high rate of homeownership.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$41,200
Family Income:
$46,100
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$31,500
Income Female:
$27,100
Poverty Rate:
20.5%
Non English Speakers:
23.0%
Rent:
$680
Unemployment Rate:
6.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
17.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.1%
Bachelors or More:
19.6%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Bayard, NM?
Fort Bayard families have access to local public schools in nearby Bayard, with manageable class sizes and a supportive community environment. Higher education opportunities are close by at Western New Mexico University in Silver City, just six miles away. While private school options are limited, the area offers strong educational resources for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Bayard Elementary School
Street:
801 Central Ave, Bayard, NM 88023
Phone:
575-537-4010
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
C.C. Snell Middle School
Street:
400 Tom Foy Blvd, Bayard, NM 88023
Phone:
575-537-4060
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Colleges
Name:
Western New Mexico University
City:
Silver City
State:
NM
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Fort Bayard is supported by the local Fort Bayard Medical Center and nearby Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City, which provides emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% of people insured, basic health needs are well met for a small town. Residents benefit from both long-term care and general medical services within a short distance.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Fort Bayard Medical Center
Address:
41 Fort Bayard Rd, Santa Clara, NM 88026
Phone:
(575) 537-3302
Type:
Long-term care & Rehabilitation
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Gila Regional Medical Center
Address:
1313 E 32nd St, Silver City, NM 88061
Phone:
(575) 538-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.5%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Bayard, NM?
The housing market in Fort Bayard is highly accessible, with a median home price of $142,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $680. Homeownership is popular, with over 70% of residents owning their homes, and vacancy rates are reasonable, providing options for both buyers and renters. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates indicate a stable, affordable market.
Median Home Price:
$142,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$680
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle licensing and registration through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest office located in Truth or Consequences. The DMV offers comprehensive services both in-person and online, making it convenient for new arrivals to get settled. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the official state website.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1876 North Date Street, Truth or Consequences, NM 87901
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.