Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Waterflow, NM
Considering a move to Waterflow, NM? This small community of about 1,650 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $110,000 and average rents at $880. Enjoy over 70% sunny days each year, quick 23-minute commutes, and a close-knit, diverse population—predominantly Native American. While amenities are modest and crime rates reflect regional rural averages, Waterflow offers a relaxed pace of life with access to local schools and nearby Farmington for healthcare and shopping.
Demographics - Waterflow, NM
Demographics - Waterflow, NM
Waterflow is a small, close-knit community of around 1,650 residents, with a median age of 34 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly Native American (54%), with notable White and Hispanic populations, and about one-third of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its low population density provides a spacious, rural atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
1,650
Density:
90 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
32%

Ethnic Composition
White:
36%
Black:
1%
Others:
9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Waterflow, NM?
Waterflow offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $110,000 and average rents at $880, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. The cost of living index is well below the national average, especially in housing, while utilities, transportation, and groceries remain reasonably priced. Residents benefit from lower state taxes and manageable monthly expenses.
Median House Value:
$110,000
Gross Rent:
$880
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,040
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.1
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
56.5
Utilities:
95.8
Transportation:
87.2
Health Care:
88.1
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Waterflow, NM a safe place to live?
Waterflow experiences crime rates typical of rural New Mexico, with a chance of violent crime at about 1 in 233 and property crime at 1 in 48. While property crime is notably higher than violent crime, overall safety aligns with regional expectations, and the community-oriented atmosphere supports a sense of security. As always, standard precautions are recommended for peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
430
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,530
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 233
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Waterflow, NM year-round?
Residents in Waterflow enjoy a climate with over 70% sunny days per year and low annual rainfall of about 8.5 inches. Summers are warm and dry, with highs reaching the low 90s, while winters are cold but manageable, dipping to the mid-teens at night. The weather is ideal for those who appreciate sunshine and a semi-arid, four-season environment.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
42°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
8.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Waterflow’s neighbors typically have a median household income of about $44,500, with a poverty rate above the national average at 26%. The community is diverse and mostly owner-occupied, with over 80% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Residents enjoy short commute times of about 23 minutes and a low reliance on public transportation.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$44,500
Family Income:
$48,600
Per Capita Income:
$15,000
Income Male:
$33,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
26.2%
Non English Speakers:
32%
Rent:
$880
Unemployment Rate:
9.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.0%
Bachelors or More:
8.5%
Education
How are the schools in Waterflow, NM?
Students in Waterflow attend public schools in neighboring Kirtland, which offer reasonable class sizes and a strong sense of community. San Juan College, located 12 miles away in Farmington, provides higher education opportunities for local residents. The area’s educational attainment rates indicate most adults have completed high school, with a smaller percentage holding college degrees.

Public Schools
Name:
Kirtland Central High School
Street:
550 CR 6100, Kirtland, NM 87417
Phone:
505-598-5881
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Name:
Grace B. Wilson Elementary School
Street:
501 CR 6100, Kirtland, NM 87417
Phone:
505-598-4566
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Colleges
Name:
San Juan College
City:
Farmington
State:
NM
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
6,400
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Waterflow is supported by nearby facilities like San Juan Regional Medical Center, located in Farmington just a short drive away. Most residents have health insurance coverage, and there are about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring essential medical services are within reach. The area’s healthcare index reflects reliable but modest resources typical of rural communities.

Major Hospitals
Name:
San Juan Regional Medical Center
Address:
801 W Maple St, Farmington, NM 87401
Phone:
(505) 609-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.5%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Waterflow, NM?
Waterflow’s housing market is characterized by affordable median home prices around $110,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of over 78%. The rental market is stable, with average two-bedroom rents at $880 and vacancy rates under 10%, while home values have appreciated modestly in recent years. This makes Waterflow particularly appealing for first-time buyers or those seeking value in a rural setting.
Median Home Price:
$110,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$880
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local residents utilize the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division office in nearby Farmington for all DMV needs, including licensing and vehicle registration. This office provides convenient access to essential motor vehicle services and information. For more details or to make appointments, the state DMV website offers helpful resources.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
3501 E Main St, Farmington, NM 87402
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.