South River, NM
Population 1,594 · New Mexico
About South River, NM
South River is a small town located in New Mexico with a population of 1,594 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,307 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 56.5 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 South River features a median home value of $215,000, which is 12% below the national median of $244,900. This positions South River in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 754 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (610 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (50 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South River shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South River have an average one-way commute time of 32.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.4% of South River 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 3.8% White, 10.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 11.0% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South River, NM
Compared to national averages, South River has a median household income of $56,307 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $215,000, which is 12% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, South River's income is 17% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 8% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in South River, NM?
South River offers affordable housing with a median home value of $215,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,307) that falls below the national average. However, South River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South River has a population of 1,594 with a median age of 56.5 years. Compare South River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near South River
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barton | 1,601 | $83,849 | $336,300 | Compare |
| El Valle de Arroyo Seco | 1,602 | $69,556 | $214,400 | Compare |
| Elephant Butte | 1,586 | $45,179 | $166,800 | Compare |
| Gamerco | 1,583 | $40,938 | $0 | Compare |
| Tano Road | 1,581 | $166,649 | $1,019,600 | Compare |
| White Sands | 1,577 | $87,059 | $0 | Compare |
| Rio Rancho Estates | 1,626 | $90,172 | $156,900 | Compare |
| Dixon | 1,551 | $43,148 | $362,300 | 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 South River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South River
What is the population of South River, NM?
The population of South River, NM is 1,594 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 South River?
The median household income in South River, NM is $56,307 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South River?
The median home value in South River, NM is $215,000, which is 12% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South River?
The median monthly rent in South River, NM is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South River?
The unemployment rate in South River, NM is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South River, NM a good place to live?
South River offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,594 and a median age of 56.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is South River, NM?
21.4% of residents in South River 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 South River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South River, NM: median home value is $215,000 (12% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $56,307. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South River?
The poverty rate in South River, NM is 14.6%, 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 South River, NM?
South River's population is 3.8% White, 10.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 11.0% Asian, and 10.5% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.