Tularosa, NM
Population 2,584 · New Mexico
About Tularosa, NM
Tularosa is a small town located in New Mexico with a population of 2,584 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,147 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.7 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 Tularosa features a median home value of $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Tularosa one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,043, 10% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,152 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (511 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (113 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tularosa shows an unemployment rate of 23.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Tularosa have an average one-way commute time of 24 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.0% of Tularosa 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 31.2% White, 7.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 27.3% Asian residents, with 0.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tularosa, NM
Compared to national averages, Tularosa has a median household income of $45,147 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,600, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,043 is 10% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Tularosa's income is 33% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 50% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Tularosa, NM?
Tularosa offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,043/month, and short commute times averaging just 24 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,147) that falls below the national average. However, Tularosa’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tularosa has a population of 2,584 with a median age of 25.7 years. Compare Tularosa with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Tularosa
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruidoso Downs | 2,629 | $31,413 | $55,400 | Compare |
| La Mesilla | 2,531 | $74,385 | $266,900 | Compare |
| West Hammond | 2,519 | $49,795 | $185,800 | Compare |
| Clayton | 2,680 | $40,192 | $111,500 | Compare |
| Milan | 2,473 | $37,551 | $71,300 | Compare |
| University Park | 2,699 | $25,433 | $0 | Compare |
| Santa Rosa | 2,447 | $41,995 | $101,800 | Compare |
| Chimayo | 2,726 | $52,305 | $214,000 | 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 Tularosa With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tularosa
What is the population of Tularosa, NM?
The population of Tularosa, NM is 2,584 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 Tularosa?
The median household income in Tularosa, NM is $45,147 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tularosa?
The median home value in Tularosa, NM is $117,600, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Tularosa?
The median monthly rent in Tularosa, NM is $1,043, which is 10% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tularosa?
The unemployment rate in Tularosa, NM is 23.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tularosa, NM a good place to live?
Tularosa offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,584 and a median age of 25.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Tularosa, NM?
22.0% of residents in Tularosa 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 Tularosa?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tularosa, NM: median home value is $117,600 (52% below national), median rent is $1,043/month, and median household income is $45,147. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Tularosa?
The poverty rate in Tularosa, NM is 20.1%, 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 Tularosa, NM?
Tularosa's population is 31.2% White, 7.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 27.3% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.7% of residents are foreign-born.