Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ruidoso Downs, NM
Thinking of moving to Ruidoso Downs, NM? With a friendly small-town feel and a population of about 2,750, Ruidoso Downs offers affordable living—median home prices around $185,000 and average rents near $875. Enjoy a sunny climate with 69% sunny days, quick commutes (about 17 minutes), and proximity to the scenic mountains. While the local schools and healthcare facilities serve the community well, be aware that property crime rates are higher than average. Explore the relaxed lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and welcoming community this southern New Mexico town has to offer.
Demographics - Ruidoso Downs, NM
Demographics - Ruidoso Downs, NM
Ruidoso Downs is a close-knit community of about 2,750 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 38.4 years. The area is predominantly White (72%), but also features a significant Hispanic and multicultural presence, and nearly a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
2,747
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.4
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
22.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.2%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
25.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ruidoso Downs, NM?
Ruidoso Downs offers a notably affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $185,000 and average rent around $875. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals or families.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$875
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.2
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
72.8
Utilities:
93.4
Transportation:
78.3
Health Care:
86.7
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Ruidoso Downs, NM a safe place to live?
While Ruidoso Downs is known for its friendly atmosphere, property crime rates are higher than average, with about 2,320 property crimes per 100,000 people. Violent crime remains relatively low, but it's wise for newcomers to stay vigilant and consider local safety measures.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,320
Crime Index:
2,690
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Ruidoso Downs, NM year-round?
Residents enjoy a sunny mountain climate, experiencing about 69% sunny days and moderate annual rainfall. Seasonal temperatures range from winter lows near 22°F to pleasant summer highs around 80°F, appealing to those who appreciate four distinct seasons.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
51°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
21.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
The median household income in Ruidoso Downs is around $48,900, and most residents enjoy short, 17-minute commutes. While the unemployment and poverty rates are slightly above average, the area is welcoming and diverse, with a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$48,900
Family Income:
$54,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,400
Income Male:
$29,800
Income Female:
$25,900
Poverty Rate:
17.7%
Non English Speakers:
22.5%
Rent:
$875
Unemployment Rate:
7.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
16.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.3%
Bachelors or More:
17.6%
Education
How are the schools in Ruidoso Downs, NM?
Families in Ruidoso Downs benefit from public schools with small class sizes, such as Ruidoso Middle and High Schools, and access to higher education at the local branch of Eastern New Mexico University. Educational attainment is solid, with over 80% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Ruidoso Middle School
Street:
123 Warrior Rd
Phone:
575-257-2681
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Name:
Ruidoso High School
Street:
125 Warrior Rd
Phone:
575-630-7900
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Colleges
Name:
Eastern New Mexico University - Ruidoso Branch
City:
Ruidoso
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is supported by Lincoln County Medical Center, offering general and emergency services close to home. Most residents (nearly 87%) have health insurance, and the area maintains a moderate physician-to-population ratio.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lincoln County Medical Center
Address:
211 Sudderth Dr, Ruidoso, NM 88345
Phone:
(575) 257-8200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.9%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ruidoso Downs, NM?
The housing market in Ruidoso Downs is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $185,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of about 62%. Home values have appreciated modestly, and rental options are available with a vacancy rate just over 10%.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$875
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle services are managed by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest office located in Roswell. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services both in-person and online through the state website.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
111 S. Richardson Ave, Roswell, NM 88203
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.