Fort Sumner, NM
Population 958 · New Mexico
About Fort Sumner, NM
Fort Sumner is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 958 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.9 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 Fort Sumner features a median home value of $154,000, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Fort Sumner in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $715, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 548 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (288 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (84 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fort Sumner shows an unemployment rate of 15.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Fort Sumner have an average one-way commute time of 5.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
3.1% of Fort Sumner 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 29.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 56.2% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Fort Sumner, NM
Compared to national averages, Fort Sumner has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $154,000, which is 37% below the national median. Monthly rent at $715 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Fort Sumner's income is 100% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 34% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Fort Sumner, NM?
Fort Sumner offers affordable housing with a median home value of $154,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $715/month, and short commute times averaging just 5.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Fort Sumner’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fort Sumner has a population of 958 with a median age of 27.9 years. Compare Fort Sumner with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Fort Sumner
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrizozo | 959 | $26,121 | $80,200 | Compare |
| El Rito | 961 | $24,611 | $273,700 | Compare |
| Twin Lakes | 961 | $22,917 | $56,000 | Compare |
| Cañoncito | 946 | $72,072 | $402,400 | Compare |
| Skyline-Ganipa | 937 | $66,071 | $57,200 | Compare |
| La Union | 917 | $0 | $156,300 | Compare |
| Arenas Valley | 915 | $74,107 | $166,100 | Compare |
| Santa Clara Pueblo | 1,002 | $42,083 | $205,700 | 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 Fort Sumner With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Sumner
What is the population of Fort Sumner, NM?
The population of Fort Sumner, NM is 958 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in New Mexico.
What is the median household income in Fort Sumner?
The median household income in Fort Sumner, NM is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fort Sumner?
The median home value in Fort Sumner, NM is $154,000, which is 37% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fort Sumner?
The median monthly rent in Fort Sumner, NM is $715, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fort Sumner?
The unemployment rate in Fort Sumner, NM is 15.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Fort Sumner, NM a good place to live?
Fort Sumner offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 958 and a median age of 27.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Fort Sumner, NM?
3.1% of residents in Fort Sumner 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 Fort Sumner?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fort Sumner, NM: median home value is $154,000 (37% below national), median rent is $715/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Fort Sumner?
The poverty rate in Fort Sumner, NM is 17.2%, 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 Fort Sumner, NM?
Fort Sumner's population is 29.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 56.2% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.