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

Total population
47,638
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,309/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,426
0.8% year-over-year change

Curry County population

How many people live in Curry County

Curry County is home to 47,638 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Curry County locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
47,638
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
24,238
Female
49.1%
23,400
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,238 50.9% -0.6%
Female 23,400 49.1% -0.6%
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 Curry County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.4% are children under 15, then 15.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.8% of the population, while another 19.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.4%
15 to 24
15.4%
25 to 44
29.8%
45 to 64
19.4%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,653 22.4% -1.7%
15 to 24 7,338 15.4% -1.2%
25 to 44 14,199 29.8% 0.9%
45 to 64 9,263 19.4% -1.9%
Over 65 6,185 13% 0.4%
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 Curry County, 87.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 53.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6.1% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 18.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 18.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,569 87.3% -2.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,865 6% 12.5%
Non-citizens 3,204 6.7% 20.5%
Racial breakdown
White
53.7%
Black or African American
6.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
18.3%
Other
18.7%
Value Percent
White 25,586 53.7%
Black or African American 2,914 6.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 670 1.4%
Asian 729 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 73 0.2%
Two or more races 8,739 18.3%
Other 8,927 18.7%

Households in Curry County

A peek inside Curry County households

Curry County has 18,595 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63.7% are families, while the remaining 36.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,595
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,748
Family households
11,847
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,748 36.3% -5.4%
Family households 11,847 63.7% 4.5%
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 Curry County

The housing landscape of Curry County

Curry County's housing consists of 21,426 units, with 73.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,426
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,709 73.3%
1 unit, attached 722 3.4%
2 units 656 3.1%
3 or 4 units 1,310 6.1%
5 to 9 units 441 2.1%
10 to 19 units 345 1.6%
20 to 49 units 327 1.5%
50 or more units 215 1%
Mobile home 1,662 7.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 39 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
199
158.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Curry County

In Curry County, the median construction year is 1976. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,106 5.2% -7.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,410 6.6% -3.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,443 11.4% 3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,364 15.7% 5.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,795 17.7% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,172 10.1% 7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,448 11.4% -2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,616 7.5% -19.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,873 13.4% 7.6%
Built in 2020 or later 199 0.9% 158.4%
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.

Curry County occupancy rates

Out of the 18,595 occupied housing units in Curry County, 62.7% are owner-occupied, while 37.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,595
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,942
Owner occupied
11,653
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,942 37.3% -3.0%
Owner occupied 11,653 62.7% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
13.2%
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.

Curry County housing costs

Housing costs in Curry County come to a median of $1,015 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,024.

Median housing costs per month
$1,015/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 Curry County
$1,024/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 Curry County

Curry County education at a glance

About 38.9% of the population in Curry County went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,605 7.4% 7.4%
High school diploma 13,600 38.9% -2.4%
College diploma 8,260 23.6% -8.1%
Associate degree 3,415 9.8% 6.0%
Bachelor's degree 4,218 12% 6.6%
Graduate degree 2,903 8.3% 11.1%
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 Curry County

How much people earn in Curry County

The average annual household income in Curry County was $74,913 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,309, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Curry County
$74,913/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Curry County
$57,309/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Curry County income by age

In Curry County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,641. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,964 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,862, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,328 in earnings. Overall, 79.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,862 -1.1%
25 - 44 $69,641 6.8%
45 - 64 $61,964 -5.2%
Over 65 $42,328 6.1%
Above poverty level
36,391
Below poverty level
9,226
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 36,391 79.8% -0.3%
Below poverty level 9,226 20.2% -2.6%

Employment in Curry County

Workforce and job types in Curry County

The job market in Curry County is powered by 17,930 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 60.7% are employed by private companies, and 23.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,930
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
13,186
Blue collar
4,744
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,186 73.5% 2.6%
Blue collar 4,744 26.5% -5.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
60.7%
Governmental workers
23.3%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,631 9.1% 19.8%
Private companies 10,891 60.7% -3.1%
Governmental workers 4,174 23.3% 9.8%
Not for profit companies 1,234 6.9% -15.8%
Unemployment rate
8.2%
7.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Curry County stands at 8.2%, 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 Curry County

How people get around in Curry County

Commuting methods vary: 93.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 19,823 93.5% -0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 38 0.2% 18.8%
Ferryboat 4 0% 33.3%
Motorcycle 52 0.2% 26.8%
Bicycle 97 0.5% -10.2%
Walk 353 1.7% -22.8%
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 Curry County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88101 44,846 17,438 $56,587 $74,591
88103 16 0 $0 $0
88112 272 139 $60,516 $61,014
88120 267 172 $70,458 $71,333
88124 891 388 $51,618 $85,139
88135 1,500 542 $70,417 $78,273

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FAQs about Curry County demographics 

What is the total population of Curry County?

Curry County has a total population of 47,638 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Curry County?

The gender ratio in Curry County is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (24,238 residents)
  • 49.1% females (23,400 residents)

What is the median age in Curry County?

The median age in Curry County is 31.9.

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

The age distribution in Curry County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.4% (10,653 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.4% (7,338 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.8% (14,199 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.4% (9,263 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (6,185 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Curry County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Curry County is as follows:
  • White: 53.7% (25,586 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.1% (2,914 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (670 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (729 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (73 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 18.3% (8,739 residents)
  • Other: 18.7% (8,927 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.3% of the population in Curry County.

How many housing units are there in Curry County?

There are 21,426 housing units in Curry County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Curry County has a total of 18,595 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Curry County?

Curry County has a median household income of $57,309, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.8% in Curry County, with a workforce of 17,930 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.5% (13,186 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.5% (4,744 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (1,631 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.7% (10,891 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.3% (4,174 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (1,234 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