Columbus, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,196
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$26,090/yr
6.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
768
1.7% year-over-year change

Columbus population

How many people live in Columbus

Columbus is home to 1,196 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43% of Columbus locals are male, and 57% are female.

Total population
1,196
4.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43%
514
Female
57%
682
Value Percent YoY change
Male 514 43% 11.3%
Female 682 57% -0.4%
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 Columbus is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.1% are children under 15, then 10% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.1% of the population, while another 29.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.1%
15 to 24
10%
25 to 44
22.1%
45 to 64
29.5%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 240 20.1% -7.7%
15 to 24 119 10% -18.5%
25 to 44 264 22.1% 7.3%
45 to 64 353 29.5% 30.7%
Over 65 220 18.4% -2.2%
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 Columbus, 62.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 26.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 72.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
62.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
26.2%
Non-citizens
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 744 62.2% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 313 26.2% 49.0%
Non-citizens 139 11.6% -34.1%
Racial breakdown
White
13.4%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
72.5%
Other
14.1%
Value Percent
White 160 13.4%
Two or more races 867 72.5%
Other 169 14.1%

Households in Columbus

A peek inside Columbus households

Columbus has 432 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.2% are families, while the remaining 26.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
432
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
116
Family households
316
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 116 26.8% -30.9%
Family households 316 73.2% 22.0%
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 Columbus

The housing landscape of Columbus

Columbus's housing consists of 768 units, with 38.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 57% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
768
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 297 38.7%
5 to 9 units 12 1.6%
20 to 49 units 8 1%
Mobile home 438 57%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 13 1.7%
Homes built since 2020
40
0.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbus

In Columbus, the median construction year is 1986. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 23.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 5.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8 1% 14.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 52 6.8% -11.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 162 21.1% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 92 12% -30.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 122 15.9% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 98 12.8% -3.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 183 23.8% 59.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11 1.4% 0.0%
Built in 2020 or later 40 5.2% 0.0%
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.

Columbus occupancy rates

Out of the 432 occupied housing units in Columbus, 54.4% are owner-occupied, while 45.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 43.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
432
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
197
Owner occupied
235
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 197 45.6% 8.8%
Owner occupied 235 54.4% -4.5%
Unoccupied housing units
43.8%
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.

Columbus housing costs

Housing costs in Columbus come to a median of $409 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $414.

Median housing costs per month
$409/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 Columbus
$414/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 Columbus

Columbus education at a glance

About 33.5% of the population in Columbus went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 4.3% earned an associate degree and 2.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 271 31.3% 37.6%
High school diploma 290 33.5% 7.4%
College diploma 199 23% 44.2%
Associate degree 37 4.3% 37.0%
Bachelor's degree 21 2.4% -68.7%
Graduate degree 48 5.5% 14.3%
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 Columbus

How much people earn in Columbus

The average annual household income in Columbus was $37,729 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +22% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $26,090, reflecting a +6.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbus
$37,729/year
22.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbus
$26,090/year
6.3% year-over-year change

Columbus income by age

In Columbus, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $27,150. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $40,039 overall. Overall, 77.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $27,150 -0.5%
45 - 64 $40,039 N/A
Over 65 $20,313 6.6%
Above poverty level
924
Below poverty level
272
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 924 77.3% 29.1%
Below poverty level 272 22.7% -36.9%

Average renter income in Columbus

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbus, their median household income was $18,105 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$18,105
Rent-to-income ratio
27.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Columbus

Workforce and job types in Columbus

The job market in Columbus is powered by 443 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs.

Workforce demographics

Working population
443
41.5% year-over-year change
White collar
275
Blue collar
168
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 275 62.1% 59.9%
Blue collar 168 37.9% 19.1%
Employer type
Self employees
0%
Private companies
75.2%
Governmental workers
24.8%
Not for profit companies
0%
Value Percent YoY change
Private companies 333 75.2% 22.0%
Governmental workers 110 24.8% 175.0%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
87.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbus stands at 6.3%, 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 Columbus

How people get around in Columbus

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 381 88.8% 48.2%
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 Columbus by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88029 1,198 432 $26,090 $37,729

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FAQs about Columbus demographics 

What is the total population of Columbus?

Columbus has a total population of 1,196 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 +4.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbus?

The gender ratio in Columbus is as follows:
  • 43% males (514 residents)
  • 57% females (682 residents)

What is the median age in Columbus?

The median age in Columbus is 43.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbus?

The age distribution in Columbus is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.1% (240 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10% (119 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.1% (264 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.5% (353 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (220 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus is as follows:
  • White: 13.4% (160 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 72.5% (867 residents)
  • Other: 14.1% (169 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 62.2% of the population in Columbus.

How many housing units are there in Columbus?

There are 768 housing units in Columbus, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Columbus has a total of 432 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbus?

Columbus has a median household income of $26,090, representing a +6.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Columbus?

The employment rate is 93.7% in Columbus, with a workforce of 443 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.1% (275 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.9% (168 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 0% (0 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.2% (333 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.8% (110 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 0% (0 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