Carlsbad, NM
Population 31,813 · New Mexico
About Carlsbad, NM
Carlsbad is a mid-sized city in New Mexico with a population of 31,813 residents. The median household income is $78,277 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Carlsbad is 37.4 years.
Housing in Carlsbad has a median home value of $187,900 and median monthly rent of $1,206. Of the 14,336 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 8,948 owner-occupied and 3,504 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Carlsbad is 4.4% and the poverty rate is 13.0%. 20.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.1 minutes.
How Carlsbad Ranks in New Mexico
Cost of Living in Carlsbad, NM
Compared to national averages, Carlsbad has a median household income of $78,277 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $187,900, which is 23% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,206 is 4% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Carlsbad's income is 16% above the state average of $67,435, and home values are 20% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Carlsbad, NM?
Carlsbad offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,277, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $187,900, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Carlsbad has a population of 31,813 with a median age of 37.4 years. Compare Carlsbad with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Carlsbad
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alamogordo | 31,063 | $52,515 | $163,600 | Compare |
| South Valley | 36,605 | $51,062 | $205,200 | Compare |
| Clovis | 38,153 | $54,029 | $160,000 | Compare |
| Hobbs | 39,887 | $65,691 | $180,700 | Compare |
| Gallup | 21,333 | $57,466 | $134,600 | Compare |
| Los Lunas | 17,932 | $63,696 | $232,700 | Compare |
| Farmington | 46,339 | $63,745 | $225,400 | Compare |
| Sunland Park | 17,085 | $52,147 | $194,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New Mexico
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Carlsbad
What is the population of Carlsbad, NM?
The population of Carlsbad, NM is 31,813 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Carlsbad?
The median household income in Carlsbad, NM is $78,277 per year.
What is the median home value in Carlsbad?
The median home value in Carlsbad, NM is $187,900.
What is the average rent in Carlsbad?
The median monthly rent in Carlsbad, NM is $1,206.
What is the unemployment rate in Carlsbad?
The unemployment rate in Carlsbad, NM is 4.4%.