Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Taos Ski Valley, NM
Considering Taos Ski Valley, NM for your next move? This tiny alpine village of about 80 residents offers breathtaking mountain scenery, a high rate of sunny days (75%), and a median home price around $710,000, reflecting its resort allure. While housing costs are high, rental options average $1,420. Residents enjoy low crime rates, a short 21-minute average commute, and great access to outdoor activities and nearby schools. With a laid-back lifestyle in a unique mountain setting, Taos Ski Valley is ideal for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and tight-knit community living.
Demographics - Taos Ski Valley, NM
Demographics - Taos Ski Valley, NM
Taos Ski Valley is a small alpine community with just 80 residents, a median age of 48, and low population density, creating a tranquil, close-knit environment. The population is predominantly White, with a mix of Native American and Hispanic or Latino residents, and a nearly balanced gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up a small portion, contributing to the village’s distinct yet inclusive character.
Population:
80
Density:
15 per sq mi
Median Age:
48
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
87.5%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Taos Ski Valley, NM?
The cost of living in Taos Ski Valley is above the national average, largely due to high housing expenses with a median home value of $710,000 and average rents around $1,420. While utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs are relatively moderate, the area’s cost of living index of 127.0 reflects its status as a desirable mountain resort destination. Residents should budget accordingly for premium housing in exchange for the area’s scenic beauty and lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$710,000
Gross Rent:
$1,420
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$750
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
127.0
Grocery:
104.5
Housing:
165.0
Utilities:
99.8
Transportation:
97.3
Health Care:
98.4
Miscellaneous:
101.2
Crime
Is Taos Ski Valley, NM a safe place to live?
Taos Ski Valley experiences low crime rates, offering residents peace of mind in a safe mountain setting. Violent crime is rare, with a chance of 1 in 540, and property crime is also infrequent compared to many urban areas. This secure environment makes it appealing for families and those seeking a tranquil lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,325
Crime Index:
1,510
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in Taos Ski Valley, NM year-round?
The village enjoys a high percentage of sunny days (75%) and experiences cool, crisp mountain weather, with winter lows around 7°F and summer highs reaching 68°F. Annual rainfall averages 23.5 inches, providing fresh mountain air and lush seasonal landscapes. Residents can expect four distinct seasons ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
23°F
Max:
48°F
Summer
Min:
39°F
Max:
68°F
Fall
Min:
23°F
Max:
51°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Local residents benefit from a friendly, educated community, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma and nearly half with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Median household incomes are moderate at $65,000, and the poverty rate is 10.2%, supporting a stable quality of life. The area’s low unemployment and short average commute contribute to its relaxed, close-knit atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$65,000
Family Income:
$81,000
Per Capita Income:
$39,800
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,420
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.0%
Bachelors or More:
47.5%
Education
How are the schools in Taos Ski Valley, NM?
Taos Ski Valley families benefit from several public and private schools in the area, including Arroyos Del Norte Elementary and Taos Middle School, both offering low student-teacher ratios. Private and charter options, as well as higher education at the University of New Mexico - Taos just 21 miles away, provide diverse learning opportunities. The community’s high educational attainment supports a vibrant, well-educated population.
Public Schools
Name:
Arroyos Del Norte Elementary School
Street:
405 Hondo Seco Rd, El Prado
Phone:
575-776-2256
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Taos Middle School
Street:
235 Camino de Santiago, Taos
Phone:
575-751-2600
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Taos International School
Street:
118 Toalne Dr, Taos
Phone:
575-613-4409
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico - Taos
City:
Taos
State:
NM
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Taos Ski Valley is supported by nearby facilities like Holy Cross Hospital, offering general and emergency services. With 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and health insurance coverage for over 91% of locals, basic medical needs are well met. This ensures peace of mind for residents and families.
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:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Taos Ski Valley, NM?
The housing market is characterized by high demand and limited inventory, with a median home price of $710,000 and a steady appreciation rate of 6.2% over the past year. Two-bedroom rentals average $1,420, and homeownership is common, with over 63% of residents owning their homes. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates underscore the area’s desirability and investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$710,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,420
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division’s Taos office, conveniently located nearby. The DMV provides essential licensing and registration services for new arrivals and locals alike. For more information, visit the state’s official DMV website.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1036 Salazar Rd, Taos, NM 87571
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.