Metro areas in New Mexico: income, rent and home values
New Mexico has 4 metropolitan areas with annual Census data, led by Albuquerque, NM with 924,496 residents. Household incomes are highest in Santa Fe, NM ($85,401). Renters spend the smallest share of income in Farmington, NM (26.2%) and the largest in Albuquerque, NM (30.7%). The fastest-growing metro since 2021 is Las Cruces, NM (+3.4%).
| Metro area | Population | Median income | Median rent | Home value | Rent / income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque, NM | 924,496 | $79,728 | $1,287 | $338,000 | 30.7% |
| Las Cruces, NM | 229,091 | $68,321 | $965 | $257,700 | 27.1% |
| Santa Fe, NM | 156,907 | $85,401 | $1,511 | $519,900 | 30.5% |
| Farmington, NM | 120,340 | $62,487 | $937 | $233,000 | 26.2% |
Compare Albuquerque with another metro ↗ See national rankings ↗
New Mexico at a glance
What is the most affordable metro area in New Mexico for renters?+
Farmington, NM, where renters spend a median 26.2% of household income on rent (2025 Census data).
Which metro area in New Mexico has the highest income?+
Santa Fe, NM, with a median household income of $85,401 in 2025.
How many metro areas are in New Mexico?+
4 metropolitan statistical areas in New Mexico have annual Census estimates (population 65,000+).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2025 1-year estimates (released September 2026), with 2024 and 2021 for trends. Figures are survey estimates with margins of error; small differences between metros may not be meaningful. Metro areas use the official Metropolitan Statistical Area boundaries. Compiled and analyzed by Metro Research. Methodology.