Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lama, NM
Considering a move to Lama, NM? This small, close-knit community of just over 300 residents offers affordable living, with a median home price around $240,000 and average 2-bedroom rents at $950. Residents enjoy abundant sunshine (72% sunny days), crisp mountain air, and a relaxed pace. While property crime rates are higher than average, commute times are short at 28 minutes and the cost of living is notably below the national average. Local schools are small and welcoming, and the breathtaking northern New Mexico landscape makes Lama a peaceful rural retreat.
Demographics - Lama, NM
Lama, NM is a small, rural community with a population of 332 and a median age of 53, reflecting a mature and settled population. The area is predominantly White with a notable Hispanic or Latino presence, and about 16% of residents speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
332
Density:
10 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.0
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
70.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lama, NM?
The cost of living in Lama is considerably below the national average, with a cost of living index of 88. Housing is especially affordable, with a median home value of $240,000 and typical rents around $950 per month, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$240,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,260
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
77.0
Utilities:
90.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
96.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Lama, NM a safe place to live?
While Lama offers a peaceful rural setting, property crime is higher than average, with a property crime rate translating to a 1 in 41 chance per year. Violent crime is less common, but residents should remain vigilant and take standard safety precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,450
Crime Index:
2,820
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Lama, NM year-round?
Lama experiences four distinct seasons with warm, pleasant summers reaching highs of 82°F and cold winters dipping to 10°F. The area enjoys plenty of sunshine, with 72% sunny days and moderate annual rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate outdoor living.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
27°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
15.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Residents of Lama benefit from a friendly, close-knit community with a median household income of $37,500 and a poverty rate just under 20%. Most adults have completed high school, and commute times are manageable at around 28 minutes, though public transit options are limited.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$37,500
Family Income:
$42,500
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$25,000
Income Female:
$22,000
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
16.0%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
7.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
28 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.0%
Bachelors or More:
29.0%
Education
How are the schools in Lama, NM?
Lama's educational options include small, community-focused public schools such as Questa Junior/Senior High School, which boasts a low student-teacher ratio of 12.5. For higher education, the University of New Mexico - Taos is just 20 miles away, providing accessible college-level courses.
Public Schools
Name:
Questa Junior/Senior High School
Street:
148 Wildcat Rd, Questa, NM 87556
Phone:
575-586-1604
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico - Taos
City:
Taos
State:
NM
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Lama is supported by Holy Cross Hospital in nearby Taos, offering general and emergency services. With 85% health insurance coverage and about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, most basic medical needs can be met locally.
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:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.0%
Health Care Index:
65.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lama, NM?
The housing market in Lama is stable and affordable, featuring a median home price of $240,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 72%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $950, and the market sees modest appreciation year over year.
Median Home Price:
$240,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle motor vehicle services through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Santa Fe. The DMV offers comprehensive licensing, registration, and title services both in-person and online.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1100 South St. Francis Drive, Santa Fe, NM 87505
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.