Chaves County, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
64,217
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,938/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
26,864
0.3% year-over-year change

Chaves County population

How many people live in Chaves County

Chaves County is home to 64,217 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Chaves County locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
64,217
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
32,311
Female
49.7%
31,906
Value Percent YoY change
Male 32,311 50.3% -0.4%
Female 31,906 49.7% -0.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Chaves County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 14.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26% of the population, while another 22.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
14.9%
25 to 44
26%
45 to 64
22.9%
Over 65
16.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,717 19.8% -2.3%
15 to 24 9,542 14.9% 1.1%
25 to 44 16,675 26% -0.1%
45 to 64 14,714 22.9% -0.8%
Over 65 10,569 16.5% 1.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Chaves County, 87.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 1.9% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 26.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 56,196 87.5% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,914 6.1% 0.5%
Non-citizens 4,107 6.4% 10.7%
Racial breakdown
White
53.7%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.9%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
26.1%
Other
14.9%
Value Percent
White 34,497 53.7%
Black or African American 1,054 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,233 1.9%
Asian 1,005 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 96 0.2%
Two or more races 16,740 26.1%
Other 9,592 14.9%

Households in Chaves County

A peek inside Chaves County households

Chaves County has 23,712 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65% are families, while the remaining 35% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,712
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
8,307
Family households
15,405
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,307 35% 1.3%
Family households 15,405 65% 0.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Chaves County

The housing landscape of Chaves County

Chaves County's housing consists of 26,864 units, with 71.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 13.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
26,864
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,216 71.5%
1 unit, attached 472 1.8%
2 units 982 3.7%
3 or 4 units 759 2.8%
5 to 9 units 312 1.2%
10 to 19 units 392 1.5%
20 to 49 units 476 1.8%
50 or more units 513 1.9%
Mobile home 3,558 13.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 184 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
202
45.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chaves County

In Chaves County, the median construction year is 1972. About 6.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,728 6.4% 5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,936 7.2% 11.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,406 20.1% 0.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,526 13.1% -9.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,503 16.8% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,685 13.7% 4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,556 9.5% -18.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,919 7.1% 14.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,403 5.2% 26.9%
Built in 2020 or later 202 0.8% 45.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Chaves County occupancy rates

Out of the 23,712 occupied housing units in Chaves County, 71.3% are owner-occupied, while 28.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,712
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,808
Owner occupied
16,904
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,808 28.7% -7.9%
Owner occupied 16,904 71.3% 4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
11.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Chaves County housing costs

Housing costs in Chaves County come to a median of $753 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $867.

Median housing costs per month
$753/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Chaves County
$867/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Chaves County

Chaves County education at a glance

About 42.5% of the population in Chaves County went to high school, while 24.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,713 7.7% -4.2%
High school diploma 20,562 42.5% 3.5%
College diploma 12,054 24.9% -3.7%
Associate degree 4,417 9.1% 3.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,629 9.6% -3.7%
Graduate degree 3,043 6.3% 2.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Chaves County

How much people earn in Chaves County

The average annual household income in Chaves County was $74,868 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,938, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chaves County
$74,868/year
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chaves County
$52,938/year
1.8% year-over-year change

Chaves County income by age

In Chaves County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,991. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,403 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,568, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,090 in earnings. Overall, 75.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,568 -0.5%
25 - 44 $57,991 -3.7%
45 - 64 $61,403 6.7%
Over 65 $37,090 -11.3%
Above poverty level
46,421
Below poverty level
14,732
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 46,421 75.9% -2.6%
Below poverty level 14,732 24.1% 9.9%

Employment in Chaves County

Workforce and job types in Chaves County

The job market in Chaves County is powered by 26,597 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 64.6% are employed by private companies, and 19.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
26,597
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
18,747
Blue collar
7,850
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,747 70.5% -1.4%
Blue collar 7,850 29.5% 3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
64.6%
Governmental workers
19.6%
Not for profit companies
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,143 8.1% -2.5%
Private companies 17,174 64.6% 1.5%
Governmental workers 5,224 19.6% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 2,056 7.7% 2.0%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-10.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chaves County stands at 5%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Chaves County

How people get around in Chaves County

Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,681 91.2% -0.4%
Taxicab 43 0.2% 2.4%
Bus or trolleybus 11 0% -47.6%
Subway or elevated 27 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 101 0.4% 8.6%
Bicycle 147 0.6% 83.8%
Walk 368 1.4% -30.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Chaves County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88253 901 315 $85,813 $110,304
88339 603 246 $57,375 $98,697
88344 44 29 $113,375 $118,469
88116 394 178 $54,239 $109,781
88201 27,524 10,153 $61,780 $96,708
88203 28,753 10,984 $42,207 $56,785
88230 4,336 1,650 $43,469 $58,406
88232 2,838 666 $65,000 $78,590
88250 153 87 $83,250 $92,030

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FAQs about Chaves County demographics 

What is the total population of Chaves County?

Chaves County has a total population of 64,217 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chaves County?

The gender ratio in Chaves County is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (32,311 residents)
  • 49.7% females (31,906 residents)

What is the median age in Chaves County?

The median age in Chaves County is 37.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chaves County?

The age distribution in Chaves County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (12,717 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.9% (9,542 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26% (16,675 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.9% (14,714 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.5% (10,569 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chaves County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chaves County is as follows:
  • White: 53.7% (34,497 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (1,054 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.9% (1,233 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (1,005 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (96 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 26.1% (16,740 residents)
  • Other: 14.9% (9,592 residents)

What percentage of the population in Chaves County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.5% of the population in Chaves County.

How many housing units are there in Chaves County?

There are 26,864 housing units in Chaves County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Chaves County and what is the average household size?

Chaves County has a total of 23,712 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chaves County?

Chaves County has a median household income of $52,938, representing a +1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Chaves County?

The employment rate is 95% in Chaves County, with a workforce of 26,597 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.5% (18,747 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.5% (7,850 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (2,143 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.6% (17,174 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.6% (5,224 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.7% (2,056 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025