Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Quay, NM
Considering a move to Quay, NM? This small, close-knit county boasts a population of 1,750, affordable living with median home prices around $95,000, and average rents at $675. Residents enjoy lots of sunshine (70% of days are sunny), quick 16-minute commutes, and a relaxed rural feel. While crime rates are moderate and education options are available locally, Quay is ideal for those seeking wide-open spaces, low housing costs, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Demographics - Quay, NM
Quay, NM is a small rural community with a population of 1,750 and a low density of just 4 people per square mile. The median age is 46, offering a mix of families and retirees, and about 14% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The area's population is predominantly White, with a diverse mix making up over a quarter of the residents.
Population:
1,750
Density:
4 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.0
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
72.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
26.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Quay, NM?
The cost of living in Quay is notably affordable, with a median home value of $95,000 and average rent at $675. Utilities and groceries are below national averages, and state income tax rates remain moderate. This makes Quay an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living in New Mexico.
Median House Value:
$95,000
Gross Rent:
$675
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.0
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
53.0
Utilities:
93.4
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
90.4
Miscellaneous:
85.7
Crime
Is Quay, NM a safe place to live?
Crime in Quay is moderate, with a violent crime rate of 278 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,780 per 100,000. Residents have about a 1 in 360 chance of being a victim of violent crime. While the community is generally safe, it's wise to take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
278
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,780
Crime Index:
2,058
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 360
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Quay, NM year-round?
Quay enjoys plenty of sunshine, with about 70% of days being sunny each year. Winters are mild with lows around 22°F, while summers can reach up to 94°F, and annual rainfall averages 17.5 inches. The climate is well-suited for those who appreciate warm, dry weather and clear skies.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
53°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
94°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Quay's residents have a median household income of $35,200, and about 22.5% live below the poverty line. The community is largely owner-occupied, and most commutes are short, averaging just under 16 minutes. Education attainment is moderate, with nearly 79% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$35,200
Family Income:
$41,000
Per Capita Income:
$21,000
Income Male:
$32,500
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
14.0%
Rent:
$675
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
15.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Quay, NM?
Education in Quay is provided by local public schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, all with favorable student-teacher ratios around 13–15. Higher education is available nearby at Mesalands Community College in Tucumcari, serving about 1,000 students. The area does not currently have private school options.

Public Schools
Name:
Tucumcari Elementary School
Street:
1701 S 9th St
Phone:
575-461-8460
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Name:
Tucumcari Middle School
Street:
1000 S 7th St
Phone:
575-461-2310
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Name:
Tucumcari High School
Street:
1100 S 7th St
Phone:
575-461-3830
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1

Colleges
Name:
Mesalands Community College
City:
Tucumcari
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Quay is anchored by Trigg Memorial Hospital, offering general and emergency services. The area has about 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents, and 86% of people have health insurance coverage. While healthcare resources are available locally, some specialized care may require travel.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Trigg Memorial Hospital
Address:
301 E Miel de Luna Ave, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Phone:
(575) 461-7001
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.8%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Quay, NM?
Quay's housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $95,000 and rents for a two-bedroom averaging $675. Homeownership is common, with about 67% of residents owning their homes, and vacancy rates are slightly above national averages. The area sees modest home appreciation, making it a stable market for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$95,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$675
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Quay are handled by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, based in Santa Fe. Residents can access services online or by calling the state hotline. The DMV offers resources for drivers and vehicle owners throughout New Mexico.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1120 Paseo de Peralta, Santa Fe, NM 87501
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.