Peñasco, NM
Population 613 · New Mexico
About Peñasco, NM
Peñasco is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 613 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,750 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42 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 Peñasco features a median home value of $219,600, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Peñasco in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $900, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 312 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (161 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (67 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Peñasco shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Peñasco have an average one-way commute time of 28.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.7% of Peñasco 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 5.4% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 82.1% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Peñasco, NM
Compared to national averages, Peñasco has a median household income of $38,750 (48% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $219,600, which is 10% below the national median. Monthly rent at $900 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Peñasco's income is 43% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 6% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Peñasco, NM?
Peñasco offers affordable housing with a median home value of $219,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $900/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,750) that falls below the national average. However, Peñasco’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Peñasco has a population of 613 with a median age of 42 years. Compare Peñasco with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Peñasco
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paa-Ko | 612 | $217,946 | $744,500 | Compare |
| Happy Valley | 616 | $0 | $144,400 | Compare |
| Sedillo | 610 | $139,375 | $463,500 | Compare |
| White Cliffs | 610 | $93,095 | $0 | Compare |
| San Rafael | 620 | $65,966 | $120,300 | Compare |
| Chamberino | 601 | $60,694 | $195,800 | Compare |
| Rio Lucio | 625 | $43,750 | $184,200 | 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 Peñasco With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Peñasco
What is the population of Peñasco, NM?
The population of Peñasco, NM is 613 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 Peñasco?
The median household income in Peñasco, NM is $38,750 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Peñasco?
The median home value in Peñasco, NM is $219,600, which is 10% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Peñasco?
The median monthly rent in Peñasco, NM is $900, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Peñasco?
The unemployment rate in Peñasco, NM is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Peñasco, NM a good place to live?
Peñasco offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 613 and a median age of 42, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Peñasco, NM?
13.7% of residents in Peñasco 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 Peñasco?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Peñasco, NM: median home value is $219,600 (10% below national), median rent is $900/month, and median household income is $38,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Peñasco?
The poverty rate in Peñasco, NM is 23.3%, 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 Peñasco, NM?
Peñasco's population is 5.4% White, 3.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 82.1% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.