Dexter, NM
Population 1,144 · New Mexico
About Dexter, NM
Dexter is a small town located in New Mexico with a population of 1,144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,118 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Dexter features a median home value of $95,200, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dexter one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $688, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 435 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (328 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (61 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dexter shows an unemployment rate of 7.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 31.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dexter have an average one-way commute time of 18.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
10.3% of Dexter residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 86.1% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 4.4% Asian residents, with 20.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Dexter Ranks in New Mexico
Cost of Living in Dexter, NM
Compared to national averages, Dexter has a median household income of $61,118 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $95,200, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $688 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Dexter's income is 9% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 59% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Dexter, NM?
Dexter offers affordable housing with a median home value of $95,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $688/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,118) that falls below the national average. However, Dexter’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dexter has a population of 1,144 with a median age of 31.5 years. Compare Dexter with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Dexter
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pecos | 1,145 | $69,327 | $260,000 | Compare |
| Columbus | 1,147 | $24,554 | $91,400 | Compare |
| Hurley | 1,137 | $41,167 | $82,900 | Compare |
| Doña Ana | 1,154 | $28,346 | $107,500 | Compare |
| Talpa | 1,126 | $59,323 | $356,300 | Compare |
| Rock Springs | 1,166 | $93,333 | $17,100 | Compare |
| Ohkay Owingeh | 1,178 | $65,179 | $2,000,001 | Compare |
| Black Rock | 1,108 | $55,350 | $80,000 | 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.
Compare Dexter With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dexter
What is the population of Dexter, NM?
The population of Dexter, NM is 1,144 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New Mexico.
What is the median household income in Dexter?
The median household income in Dexter, NM is $61,118 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dexter?
The median home value in Dexter, NM is $95,200, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dexter?
The median monthly rent in Dexter, NM is $688, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dexter?
The unemployment rate in Dexter, NM is 7.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dexter, NM a good place to live?
Dexter offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,144 and a median age of 31.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Dexter, NM?
10.3% of residents in Dexter aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Dexter?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dexter, NM: median home value is $95,200 (61% below national), median rent is $688/month, and median household income is $61,118. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dexter?
The poverty rate in Dexter, NM is 31.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Dexter, NM?
Dexter's population is 86.1% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 4.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 20.6% of residents are foreign-born.