Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Garita, NM
Thinking of moving to Garita, NM? This tiny rural community of about 25 residents offers peaceful living and affordable housing, with median home prices around $80,000 and rents near $650. Crime rates are low, and the area enjoys over 70% sunny days each year. While amenities and schools are found in nearby towns like Tucumcari, the low cost of living and wide open spaces make Garita a quiet retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Demographics - Garita, NM
Demographics - Garita, NM
Garita, NM is a very small rural community with around 25 residents and a median age of 55, reflecting its status as a quiet, close-knit area. The population is primarily White and Hispanic or Latino, and roughly a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home. Low population density and a balanced gender ratio contribute to its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
Population:
Approx. 25
Density:
Less than 10 per sq mi
Median Age:
55
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25%
Ethnic Composition
White:
68%
Others:
1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Garita, NM?
Garita offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values at $80,000 and average rents around $650 per month. Essential expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare consistently fall below national averages, making the area appealing for budget-conscious individuals or retirees. State taxes remain moderate, contributing to the overall low cost index of 85.
Median House Value:
$80,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$305
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
90.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Garita, NM a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Garita are low, with residents facing a 1 in 400 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 71 chance of property crime annually. This small community benefits from a tranquil environment and a strong sense of safety. Such low crime rates are typical for rural areas with tight-knit populations.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
250
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,400
Crime Index:
1,650
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 400
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 71
Weather
What is the weather like in Garita, NM year-round?
Garita enjoys a sunny, semi-arid climate, with roughly 72% of days each year seeing sunshine. Seasonal temperatures range from mild winters (lows near 19°F) to warm summers (highs up to 92°F), and annual rainfall is modest at about 16 inches. The pleasant weather supports outdoor living and a relaxed rural lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
The surrounding area features modest household incomes, with a median around $32,000 and a poverty rate of 18%. Most neighbors commute about 27 minutes for work, and public transportation is not commonly used. Education levels are steady, with over 80% holding a high school diploma and 12% earning a bachelor's degree or higher.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$38,500
Family Income:
$44,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,000
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$22,000
Poverty Rate:
18.2%
Non English Speakers:
25%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
27 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81%
Bachelors or More:
12%
Education
How are the schools in Garita, NM?
Garita students typically attend schools in nearby Tucumcari, including Tucumcari Elementary and High School, which offer small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. For higher education, Mesalands Community College is located just 27 miles away, providing access to degree programs and additional training. While the community itself does not host schools, educational opportunities are available within a reasonable distance.
Public Schools
Name:
Tucumcari Elementary School
Street:
1701 S 9th St
Phone:
575-461-8460
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Tucumcari High School
Street:
1100 S 7th St
Phone:
575-461-3830
Students:
250
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Colleges
Name:
Mesalands Community College
City:
Tucumcari
State:
NM
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Healthcare services are accessible through nearby facilities such as Trigg Memorial Hospital in Tucumcari, offering general and emergency care. The region has about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 86%. While healthcare options are somewhat limited locally, essential needs are met within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Trigg Memorial Hospital
Address:
301 E Miel de Luna Ave, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Phone:
(575) 461-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86%
Health Care Index:
69.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Garita, NM?
Garita’s housing market is characterized by affordability and high homeownership, with a median home price of $80,000 and 78% owner-occupied units. Average rent for a two-bedroom is $650, and vacancy rates remain moderate, providing options for both buyers and renters. Home values have seen stable appreciation, reflecting a steady rural market.
Median Home Price:
$80,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
78%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division office in Tucumcari, located a short drive from Garita. The office provides full DMV services and can be reached by phone or online for convenience. Access to state motor vehicle resources is straightforward for Garita residents.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1100 S. Mountain Rd, Tucumcari, NM 88401
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.