Happy Valley, NM
Population 616 · New Mexico
About Happy Valley, NM
Happy Valley is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 616 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 54 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Happy Valley features a median home value of $144,400, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Happy Valley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,153, 1% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 355 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (282 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (44 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Happy Valley shows an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 28.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Happy Valley have an average one-way commute time of 24.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.5% of Happy Valley 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 22.2% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Happy Valley, NM
Compared to national averages, Happy Valley has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $144,400, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,153 is 1% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Happy Valley's income is 100% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 38% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Happy Valley, NM?
Happy Valley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $144,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,153/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Happy Valley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Happy Valley has a population of 616 with a median age of 54 years. Compare Happy Valley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Happy Valley
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peñasco | 613 | $38,750 | $219,600 | Compare |
| Paa-Ko | 612 | $217,946 | $744,500 | Compare |
| San Rafael | 620 | $65,966 | $120,300 | Compare |
| Sedillo | 610 | $139,375 | $463,500 | Compare |
| White Cliffs | 610 | $93,095 | $0 | Compare |
| Rio Lucio | 625 | $43,750 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Chamberino | 601 | $60,694 | $195,800 | Compare |
| Hagerman | 599 | $68,750 | $72,900 | 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.
Compare Happy Valley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Happy Valley
What is the population of Happy Valley, NM?
The population of Happy Valley, NM is 616 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 Happy Valley?
The median household income in Happy Valley, NM is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Happy Valley?
The median home value in Happy Valley, NM is $144,400, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Happy Valley?
The median monthly rent in Happy Valley, NM is $1,153, which is 1% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Happy Valley?
The unemployment rate in Happy Valley, NM is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Happy Valley, NM a good place to live?
Happy Valley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 616 and a median age of 54, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Happy Valley, NM?
5.5% of residents in Happy Valley 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 Happy Valley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Happy Valley, NM: median home value is $144,400 (41% below national), median rent is $1,153/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 Happy Valley?
The poverty rate in Happy Valley, NM is 28.2%, 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 Happy Valley, NM?
Happy Valley's population is 22.2% White, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.0% of residents are foreign-born.