Everything You Should Know Before Moving to San Cristobal, NM
Considering a move to San Cristobal, NM? With a small population of just 250 residents, this rural community offers affordable living, with median home prices around $290,000 and average rents at $950. The area enjoys 75% sunny days annually, low violent crime rates, and stunning mountain scenery. While commute times are moderate and local schools are small, you'll find a tranquil lifestyle and access to nearby Taos for healthcare and higher education needs.
Demographics - San Cristobal, NM
Demographics - San Cristobal, NM
San Cristobal is a close-knit rural community with about 250 residents, a median age of 49.1, and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White (71%), with a significant Hispanic or Latino presence (24%), and over a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home. The area's low population density offers plenty of space and a peaceful atmosphere.
Population:
250
Density:
6 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
27.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
71.0%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in San Cristobal, NM?
Living in San Cristobal is affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $290,000. Rent for a typical two-bedroom averages $950 per month, while utilities and groceries also tend to be reasonable. State income taxes range from 1.7% to 5.9%, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$290,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,340
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.5
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
75.3
Utilities:
90.5
Transportation:
81.7
Health Care:
86.0
Miscellaneous:
92.3
Crime
Is San Cristobal, NM a safe place to live?
San Cristobal experiences low crime, with a violent crime rate of 180 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,150 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 555 chance of being a victim of violent crime, providing peace of mind for those seeking a safe small-town environment. The overall crime index reflects the community’s general sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,330
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in San Cristobal, NM year-round?
The area enjoys a high percentage of sunny days (75%) and experiences four distinct seasons, with summer highs reaching 81°F and winter lows dipping to 12°F. Annual rainfall is modest at 13.2 inches, supporting the region’s semi-arid climate. Overall, San Cristobal offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities most of the year.

Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
45°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
28°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
San Cristobal’s residents have a median household income of $44,800 and a poverty rate of 18.5%. Most households are owner-occupied, and the community features a well-educated population, with nearly 89% holding at least a high school diploma. Commute times average around 28 minutes, reflecting the rural setting and access to nearby towns.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$44,800
Family Income:
$54,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$29,500
Income Female:
$23,000
Poverty Rate:
18.5%
Non English Speakers:
27.0%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.5%
Bachelors or More:
28.0%
Education
How are the schools in San Cristobal, NM?
San Cristobal families have access to small public schools in nearby Questa, featuring low student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. Higher education opportunities are available at the University of New Mexico - Taos, located 24 miles away and serving over 1,100 students. The area values education, as seen in its high rates of high school and college attainment.

Public Schools
Name:
Questa Junior/Senior High School
Street:
16 Municipal St, Questa, NM 87556
Phone:
575-586-1604
Students:
150
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.5
Name:
Alta Vista Elementary
Street:
2551 Hwy 522, Questa, NM 87556
Phone:
575-586-2053
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.0

Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico - Taos
City:
Taos
State:
NM
Distance:
24 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to Holy Cross Hospital in nearby Taos, which offers emergency services and general care. The area has about 1.9 physicians per 1,000 people, and nearly 89% of residents have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are reliable, with a favorable healthcare index for a rural location.

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:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.7%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in San Cristobal, NM?
San Cristobal’s housing market is characterized by a median home price of $290,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 71%. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $950 and a rental vacancy rate of 10.2%. Home values have appreciated by 4.3% over the past year, indicating steady market growth.
Median Home Price:
$290,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
San Cristobal residents are served by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division located in Taos, just a short drive away. The DMV offers standard licensing and vehicle registration services, with information available online and by phone. This convenient access makes handling vehicle-related tasks straightforward for locals.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1036 Million Dollar Road, Taos, NM 87571
Phone:
(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.