Kirtland AFB, NM
Population 3,421 · New Mexico
About Kirtland AFB, NM
Kirtland AFB is a small town located in New Mexico with a population of 3,421 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $79,301 per year, which is 6% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 23.7 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 Kirtland AFB features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Kirtland AFB one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,788, 54% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,276 total housing units, 2% are owner-occupied (27 units) and 98% are renter-occupied (1,188 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kirtland AFB shows an unemployment rate of 13.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Kirtland AFB have an average one-way commute time of 8.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
44.1% of Kirtland AFB residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 18.8% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, and 5.3% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Kirtland AFB, NM
Compared to national averages, Kirtland AFB has a median household income of $79,301 (6% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,788 is 54% above the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Kirtland AFB's income is 18% above the state average of $67,435, and home values are 100% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Kirtland AFB, NM?
Kirtland AFB offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $79,301, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and a well-educated community where 44.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 8.7 minutes.
Kirtland AFB has a population of 3,421 with a median age of 23.7 years. Compare Kirtland AFB with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Kirtland AFB
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peralta | 3,385 | $67,703 | $275,000 | Compare |
| Vado | 3,185 | $29,844 | $108,300 | Compare |
| El Cerro | 3,093 | $112,174 | $291,800 | Compare |
| Sandia Heights | 3,083 | $151,538 | $623,500 | Compare |
| La Cienega | 3,780 | $68,676 | $417,900 | Compare |
| Eunice | 2,989 | $49,795 | $164,900 | Compare |
| Crownpoint | 2,924 | $35,926 | $49,900 | Compare |
| Meadow Lake | 3,959 | $38,872 | $83,500 | 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 Kirtland AFB With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kirtland AFB
What is the population of Kirtland AFB, NM?
The population of Kirtland AFB, NM is 3,421 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 Kirtland AFB?
The median household income in Kirtland AFB, NM is $79,301 per year, which is 6% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kirtland AFB?
The median home value in Kirtland AFB, NM is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Kirtland AFB?
The median monthly rent in Kirtland AFB, NM is $1,788, which is 54% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kirtland AFB?
The unemployment rate in Kirtland AFB, NM is 13.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kirtland AFB, NM a good place to live?
Kirtland AFB offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,421 and a median age of 23.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kirtland AFB, NM?
44.1% of residents in Kirtland AFB aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Kirtland AFB?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kirtland AFB, NM: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $1,788/month, and median household income is $79,301. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kirtland AFB?
The poverty rate in Kirtland AFB, NM is 12.9%, 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 Kirtland AFB, NM?
Kirtland AFB's population is 18.8% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, 5.3% Asian, and 12.1% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.