New Mexico / Roosevelt County

Moving to Portales, NM

Thinking of making a move to Portales, 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 Portales, NM

Considering a move to Portales, NM? This welcoming community of 11,754 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $143,000 and average rents near $760. Commute times average 14 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (72% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Portales's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Portales, NM

Portales has a population of 11,754 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 27 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 64% White, 4% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 21% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
11,754
Density
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age
27.2
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
20.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
63.9%
Black
3.7%
Asian
1.3%
Others
31.1%

Cost Of Living

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

The cost of living in Portales is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 81.5. Median home values are around $143,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $760. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$143,000
Gross Rent
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges
$115
Auto Insurance
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$370
State Taxes
Low: 1.7%| High: 5.9%
Cost Of Living Index
81.5
Grocery
92.1
Housing
68.7
Utilities
97.4
Transportation
80.9
Health Care
82.5
Miscellaneous
89.2

Crime

Is Portales, NM a safe place to live?

Portales is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 382 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 49. 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
382
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,040
Crime Index
2,422
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 262
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 49

Weather

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

Portales experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 92°F and cold winters dipping to 21°F. The area receives about 18 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 72% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
21°F
Max
54°F

Summer

Min
65°F
Max
92°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
74°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches
17.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
72%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $44,600 and a low poverty rate of 23.5%. Over 86% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 22% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 14 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$40,900
Household Income
$44,600
Family Income
$53,200
Per Capita Income
$20,400
Income Male
$37,200
Income Female
$32,400
Poverty Rate
23.5%
Non English Speakers
20.5%
Rent
$760
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.8%
Commute Time
13.6 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
85.6%
Bachelors or More
22.1%

Education

How are the schools in Portales, NM?

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

Public Schools

Name
Portales High School
Street
701 W 18th St
Phone
575-356-7015
Students
650
Student Teacher Ratio
17.3
Name
Valencia Elementary School
Street
1415 S Globe Ave
Phone
575-356-7097
Students
350
Student Teacher Ratio
14.8

Private Schools

Name
First Baptist Church Christian School
Street
100 S Avenue C
Phone
575-356-6241
Students
75

Colleges

Name
Eastern New Mexico University
City
Portales
State
NM
Distance
0 miles
Students
5,300

Healthcare

Portales residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Roosevelt General Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 people and 89.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Roosevelt General Hospital
Address
42121 US-70, Portales, NM 88130
Phone
(575) 356-3467
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage
89.2%
Health Care Index
66.4

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Portales, NM?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $143,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 61%. The market has seen a 3.5% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.1%. Portales offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$143,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$760
Owner Occupied Rate
60.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.5%
New Construction Rate
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Portales handle vehicle services through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Portales. 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
1601 S Ave D, Portales, NM 88130
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 Portales, NM

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

Before moving to Portales, review the core fields on this page: population 11,754, median home value $143,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $760, commute time 13.6 minutes, and sunny days percentage 72%.

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