San Rafael, NM
Population 620 · New Mexico
About San Rafael, NM
San Rafael is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 620 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,966 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 59.7 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 San Rafael features a median home value of $120,300, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes San Rafael one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 396 total housing units, 100% are owner-occupied (245 units) and 0% are renter-occupied (0 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in San Rafael shows an unemployment rate of 36.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in San Rafael have an average one-way commute time of 0 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
15.7% of San Rafael 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 0.0% White, 12.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 30.5% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in San Rafael, NM
Compared to national averages, San Rafael has a median household income of $65,966 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $120,300, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, San Rafael's income is 2% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 49% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in San Rafael, NM?
San Rafael offers affordable housing with a median home value of $120,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 0 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,966) that falls below the national average. However, San Rafael’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
San Rafael has a population of 620 with a median age of 59.7 years. Compare San Rafael with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near San Rafael
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Happy Valley | 616 | $0 | $144,400 | Compare |
| Rio Lucio | 625 | $43,750 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Peñasco | 613 | $38,750 | $219,600 | Compare |
| Paa-Ko | 612 | $217,946 | $744,500 | Compare |
| Sedillo | 610 | $139,375 | $463,500 | Compare |
| White Cliffs | 610 | $93,095 | $0 | Compare |
| Tierra Amarilla | 637 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Chamberino | 601 | $60,694 | $195,800 | 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 San Rafael With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about San Rafael
What is the population of San Rafael, NM?
The population of San Rafael, NM is 620 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 San Rafael?
The median household income in San Rafael, NM is $65,966 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in San Rafael?
The median home value in San Rafael, NM is $120,300, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in San Rafael?
The median monthly rent in San Rafael, NM is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in San Rafael?
The unemployment rate in San Rafael, NM is 36.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is San Rafael, NM a good place to live?
San Rafael offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 620 and a median age of 59.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is San Rafael, NM?
15.7% of residents in San Rafael 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 San Rafael?
Key cost-of-living indicators for San Rafael, NM: median home value is $120,300 (51% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $65,966. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in San Rafael?
The poverty rate in San Rafael, NM is 12.4%, 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 San Rafael, NM?
San Rafael's population is 0.0% White, 12.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 30.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.