Vaughn, NM
Population 548 · New Mexico
About Vaughn, NM
Vaughn is a small community located in New Mexico with a population of 548 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $26,300 per year, which is 65% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.3 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 Vaughn features a median home value of $45,800, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vaughn one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $438, 62% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 251 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (105 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (55 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vaughn shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 50.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vaughn have an average one-way commute time of 11.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
4.5% of Vaughn 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 63.7% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 27.7% Asian residents, with 8.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Vaughn Ranks in New Mexico
Cost of Living in Vaughn, NM
Compared to national averages, Vaughn has a median household income of $26,300 (65% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $45,800, which is 81% below the national median. Monthly rent at $438 is 62% below the US average of $1,163. Within New Mexico, Vaughn's income is 61% below the state average of $67,435, and home values are 80% below the state median of $233,762.
Why Live in Vaughn, NM?
Vaughn offers affordable housing with a median home value of $45,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $438/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 11.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($26,300) that falls below the national average. However, Vaughn’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vaughn has a population of 548 with a median age of 35.3 years. Compare Vaughn with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New Mexico.
Similar Cities Near Vaughn
Cities in New Mexico with a similar population size.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Vaughn
What is the population of Vaughn, NM?
The population of Vaughn, NM is 548 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 Vaughn?
The median household income in Vaughn, NM is $26,300 per year, which is 65% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vaughn?
The median home value in Vaughn, NM is $45,800, which is 81% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vaughn?
The median monthly rent in Vaughn, NM is $438, which is 62% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vaughn?
The unemployment rate in Vaughn, NM is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Vaughn, NM a good place to live?
Vaughn offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 548 and a median age of 35.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Vaughn, NM?
4.5% of residents in Vaughn 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 Vaughn?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vaughn, NM: median home value is $45,800 (81% below national), median rent is $438/month, and median household income is $26,300. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vaughn?
The poverty rate in Vaughn, NM is 50.9%, 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 Vaughn, NM?
Vaughn's population is 63.7% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 27.7% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.2% of residents are foreign-born.