Vado, NM
Population 3,185 · New Mexico
About Vado, NM
Vado is a small town located in New Mexico with a population of 3,185 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $29,844 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.4 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 Vado features a median home value of $108,300, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vado one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $545, 53% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 972 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (664 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (266 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vado shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 35.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vado have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
4.1% of Vado 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 87.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 6.9% Asian residents, with 32.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Vado Ranks in New Mexico
Cost of Living in Vado, NM
Compared to national averages, Vado has a median household income of $29,844 (60% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,300, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $545 is 53% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Vado's income is 56% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 54% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Vado, NM?
Vado offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $545/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($29,844) that falls below the national average. However, Vado’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vado has a population of 3,185 with a median age of 26.4 years. Compare Vado with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Vado
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Cerro | 3,093 | $112,174 | $291,800 | Compare |
| Sandia Heights | 3,083 | $151,538 | $623,500 | Compare |
| Eunice | 2,989 | $49,795 | $164,900 | Compare |
| Peralta | 3,385 | $67,703 | $275,000 | Compare |
| Kirtland AFB | 3,421 | $79,301 | $0 | Compare |
| Crownpoint | 2,924 | $35,926 | $49,900 | Compare |
| Cannon AFB | 2,876 | $67,132 | $0 | Compare |
| Agua Fria | 2,842 | $47,438 | $264,900 | 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 Vado With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vado
What is the population of Vado, NM?
The population of Vado, NM is 3,185 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 Vado?
The median household income in Vado, NM is $29,844 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vado?
The median home value in Vado, NM is $108,300, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vado?
The median monthly rent in Vado, NM is $545, which is 53% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vado?
The unemployment rate in Vado, NM is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Vado, NM a good place to live?
Vado offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,185 and a median age of 26.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Vado, NM?
4.1% of residents in Vado 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 Vado?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vado, NM: median home value is $108,300 (56% below national), median rent is $545/month, and median household income is $29,844. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Vado?
The poverty rate in Vado, NM is 35.7%, 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 Vado, NM?
Vado's population is 87.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 6.9% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 32.7% of residents are foreign-born.