Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tularosa, NM
Thinking of moving to Tularosa, NM? This small town of 2,553 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $140,000 and average rents at $750. Enjoy abundant sunshine (75% sunny days), a short 21-minute average commute, and scenic desert-mountain views. Crime rates are slightly above national averages, but Tularosa provides close-knit schools, basic healthcare access, and a relaxed, rural pace—ideal for those seeking affordability and Southwest charm.
Demographics - Tularosa, NM
Demographics - Tularosa, NM
Tularosa is a close-knit community of about 2,550 residents with a median age of 46, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White and Hispanic or Latino, and about one in five residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density contributes to a small-town atmosphere with a diverse cultural presence.
Population:
2,553
Density:
600 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
22.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
64.9%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tularosa, NM?
Tularosa is known for its affordable lifestyle, with median home values around $140,000 and average rents at $750. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families. Daily expenses like utilities and groceries also tend to be lower, offering residents more value for their money.
Median House Value:
$140,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,290
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$280
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.1
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
90.5
Health Care:
84.4
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Tularosa, NM a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Tularosa are somewhat higher than the national average, with a 1 in 260 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 46 chance of property crime. While residents should remain mindful of safety, the community maintains a generally peaceful rural environment. Local law enforcement and community efforts help address these concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
385
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,535
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 260
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Tularosa, NM year-round?
Tularosa enjoys a sunny climate with 75% of days filled with sunshine and only about 12.6 inches of annual rainfall. Seasonal temperatures range from mild winters (lows in the upper 20s) to hot summers (highs near 96°F), making it ideal for those who appreciate warm, dry weather. The region’s desert setting provides scenic views and year-round outdoor opportunities.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
96°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
75%
Neighbors
Residents of Tularosa experience modest incomes, with a median household income just over $40,000 and a higher-than-average poverty rate at 23%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short at about 21 minutes. The town’s friendly, diverse population adds to its welcoming small-town vibe.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$40,750
Family Income:
$45,700
Per Capita Income:
$21,700
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$30,400
Poverty Rate:
23.1%
Non English Speakers:
22.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
21.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
83.7%
Bachelors or More:
13.1%
Education
How are the schools in Tularosa, NM?
Tularosa features a small but dedicated public school system, including an elementary, middle, and high school with favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is accessible, with New Mexico State University–Alamogordo just nine miles away. While private school options are limited, the local focus is on supportive, community-centered learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Tularosa High School
Street:
50 Tiger Dr
Phone:
575-585-8816
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Tularosa Middle School
Street:
504 1st St
Phone:
575-585-8866
Students:
200
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Tularosa Elementary School
Street:
1203 Bookout Rd
Phone:
575-585-8805
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Colleges
Name:
New Mexico State University - Alamogordo
City:
Alamogordo
State:
NM
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Tularosa offers basic healthcare access, with the nearest major hospital—Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center—located in nearby Alamogordo. Most residents have health insurance, and there are about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people. Healthcare services in the area are adequate for routine needs, with more specialized care available in larger nearby towns.
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:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.0%
Health Care Index:
65.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tularosa, NM?
The housing market in Tularosa is attractive for buyers, with median home prices around $140,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 71%. Rental options are available, and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are about $750. Home values have shown steady appreciation, making it a stable market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in nearby Alamogordo. The DMV offers standard services and can be reached online or by phone for appointments and information. Its proximity ensures local residents have easy access to essential transportation services.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
263 Robert H. Bradley 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.