Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sunspot, NM
Considering a move to Sunspot, NM? This small, scenic mountain community of just 60 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $185,000 and average rents of $850. You'll enjoy over 77% sunny days and mild summers, but note that most amenities—including schools and hospitals—are in nearby towns. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and typical commutes are about 30 minutes. Sunspot is ideal for those seeking peace, outdoor recreation, and a close-knit lifestyle amid the Sacramento Mountains.
Demographics - Sunspot, NM
Demographics - Sunspot, NM
Sunspot is a small, close-knit community of only 60 residents with a median age of 51, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with a modest mix of ethnic backgrounds and 10% non-English speakers, creating a quiet and diverse mountain lifestyle.
Population:
60
Density:
10 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.0
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
78.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
19.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sunspot, NM?
The cost of living in Sunspot is notably lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 87. Housing is especially affordable, with a median home value of $185,000 and average monthly rent at $850, making it attractive for those seeking value in a rural setting.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$98
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.0
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
75.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
90.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Sunspot, NM a safe place to live?
Sunspot experiences moderate crime levels for a rural area, with a violent crime rate of 320 per 100,000 and a 1 in 48 chance of property crime. Residents generally enjoy a peaceful environment, but should still take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,420
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 312
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Sunspot, NM year-round?
Residents of Sunspot enjoy mild summers with highs near 78°F and cool winters averaging 27°F at night. The area receives about 18.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 77% sunny days, making it great for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
18.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
77%
Neighbors
Typical households in Sunspot earn around $60,000, with a poverty rate of 15.5% and low public transportation usage. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and average commutes are about 30 minutes, reflecting the rural, self-reliant lifestyle.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$60,000
Family Income:
$66,000
Per Capita Income:
$31,000
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
15.5%
Non English Speakers:
10.0%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
30.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.0%
Bachelors or More:
32.0%
Education
How are the schools in Sunspot, NM?
Local students typically attend Cloudcroft High School, which offers small class sizes and personalized attention, while higher education is available 16 miles away at New Mexico State University - Alamogordo. Private school options are not present within the immediate community.
Public Schools
Name:
Cloudcroft High School
Street:
100 Hornet Ave
Phone:
575-601-4416
Students:
135
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Colleges
Name:
New Mexico State University - Alamogordo
City:
Alamogordo
State:
NM
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
While Sunspot itself is small, residents have access to nearby Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center in Alamogordo, and 90.5% have health insurance coverage. The area maintains a moderate healthcare index and a physician rate of 1.5 per 1,000 residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center
Address:
2669 N Scenic Dr, Alamogordo, NM 88310
Phone:
(575) 439-6100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
67.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sunspot, NM?
Sunspot offers an affordable housing market with a median home price of $185,000 and strong owner-occupancy at 80%. Home values have appreciated by 5.1% over the past year, and rental options are available but limited.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Sunspot residents are served by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division office in nearby Alamogordo, providing convenient access to all standard DMV services. The office is easily reachable for vehicle registration and licensing needs.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2544 N. Scenic Dr., Alamogordo, NM 88310
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.