Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tucumcari, NM
Considering a move to Tucumcari, NM? With a small-town population of just under 5,000, this affordable city features a median home price of $90,000 and average rents around $720, making it budget-friendly for homeowners and renters alike. Residents enjoy quick commutes averaging 15 minutes, abundant sunshine (76% sunny days), and a relaxed pace of life. While property crime rates are higher than average, you'll find a caring community, access to local healthcare, and local education options, including Mesalands Community College. Tucumcari is a great fit for those seeking affordability and a classic Southwestern climate.
Demographics - Tucumcari, NM
Demographics - Tucumcari, NM
Tucumcari is a close-knit city of about 4,800 residents, featuring a median age of 45, a balanced gender ratio, and a diverse community where over 24% speak a language other than English at home. The population is primarily White and Hispanic, contributing to a multicultural local atmosphere.
Population:
4,841
Density:
640 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.1
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
24.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
55.4%
Black:
1.7%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
42.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tucumcari, NM?
Living in Tucumcari is notably affordable, with a median home value of $90,000 and average rents around $720. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$90,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$98
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.2
Grocery:
91.0
Housing:
48.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
80.0
Health Care:
84.0
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Tucumcari, NM a safe place to live?
Tucumcari experiences higher-than-average property crime, with a 1 in 26 chance, but violent crime rates are more moderate at roughly 1 in 189. Residents should stay mindful of safety, especially regarding property protection.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
529
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,896
Crime Index:
4,425
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 189
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 26
Weather
What is the weather like in Tucumcari, NM year-round?
The city enjoys a sunny climate with about 76% of days being clear, mild winters averaging lows in the mid-20s, and hot summers reaching up to 93°F. Annual rainfall is modest, making for generally pleasant and dry weather throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
53°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
72°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
93°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
76%
Neighbors
Tucumcari's residents have a median household income of around $37,800, with a poverty rate of 25%. Most people drive to work, with a short average commute of under 15 minutes, contributing to the relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$27,000
Household Income:
$37,800
Family Income:
$46,000
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$23,000
Poverty Rate:
25.2%
Non English Speakers:
24.5%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
6.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
14.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tucumcari, NM?
Local education options include public schools with low student-to-teacher ratios and Mesalands Community College, serving about 800 students. The city emphasizes accessible education from elementary through college level, supporting lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Tucumcari Elementary School
Street:
1706 S 9th St
Phone:
575-461-8460
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Tucumcari Middle School
Street:
1200 S 7th St
Phone:
575-461-2310
Students:
230
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Name:
Tucumcari High School
Street:
1100 S 7th St
Phone:
575-461-3830
Students:
285
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.9

Colleges
Name:
Mesalands Community College
City:
Tucumcari
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
800
Healthcare
Healthcare is anchored by Trigg Memorial Hospital, offering emergency and general services, and most residents have health insurance coverage. The city maintains a modest ratio of physicians and a healthcare index reflecting accessible basic care.

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:
86.4%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tucumcari, NM?
The housing market is stable and highly affordable, with a median home price of $90,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 66%. Rental vacancies are somewhat high, giving renters a range of options, while home values have seen modest appreciation.
Median Home Price:
$90,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$720
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access local DMV services at the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division office on Main Street, providing essential vehicle and licensing support within the city.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
201 E. Main St, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Phone:
(575) 461-4101
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.