Dona Ana County, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
217,107
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,750/yr
-2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
89,695
1.1% year-over-year change

Dona Ana County population

How many people live in Dona Ana County

Dona Ana County is home to 217,107 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Dona Ana County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
217,107
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
107,082
Female
50.7%
110,025
Value Percent YoY change
Male 107,082 49.3% 1.0%
Female 110,025 50.7% 1.0%
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 Dona Ana County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 18.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.9% of the population, while another 20.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
18.6%
25 to 44
24.9%
45 to 64
20.6%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 40,777 18.8% -0.9%
15 to 24 40,501 18.6% 0.9%
25 to 44 54,089 24.9% 2.2%
45 to 64 44,664 20.6% -0.1%
Over 65 37,076 17.1% 2.8%
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 Dona Ana County, 84.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 22.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 31.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.8%
Non-citizens
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 183,612 84.6% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 16,930 7.8% -5.2%
Non-citizens 16,565 7.6% 5.4%
Racial breakdown
White
41.7%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
31.3%
Other
22.6%
Value Percent
White 90,559 41.7%
Black or African American 3,856 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,743 1.3%
Asian 2,634 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 308 0.1%
Two or more races 67,962 31.3%
Other 49,045 22.6%

Households in Dona Ana County

A peek inside Dona Ana County households

Dona Ana County has 82,619 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.5% are families, while the remaining 37.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
82,619
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
31,010
Family households
51,609
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 31,010 37.5% 2.3%
Family households 51,609 62.5% 1.0%
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 Dona Ana County

The housing landscape of Dona Ana County

Dona Ana County's housing consists of 89,695 units, with 60.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 17.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
89,695
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 54,623 60.9%
1 unit, attached 2,831 3.2%
2 units 2,357 2.6%
3 or 4 units 4,423 4.9%
5 to 9 units 3,553 4%
10 to 19 units 2,446 2.7%
20 to 49 units 1,511 1.7%
50 or more units 2,134 2.4%
Mobile home 15,689 17.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 128 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
2,426
54.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dona Ana County

In Dona Ana County, the median construction year is 1989. About 2.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,177 2.4% -7.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,766 2% 5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,595 6.2% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,867 6.5% -0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,261 14.8% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,595 16.3% -4.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 15,007 16.7% -2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16,587 18.5% 6.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,414 13.8% 3.8%
Built in 2020 or later 2,426 2.7% 54.3%
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.

Dona Ana County occupancy rates

Out of the 82,619 occupied housing units in Dona Ana County, 65.3% are owner-occupied, while 34.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
82,619
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
28,696
Owner occupied
53,923
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 28,696 34.7% 1.3%
Owner occupied 53,923 65.3% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
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.

Dona Ana County housing costs

Housing costs in Dona Ana County come to a median of $702 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $808.

Median housing costs per month
$702/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 Dona Ana County
$808/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 Dona Ana County

Dona Ana County education at a glance

About 33.6% of the population in Dona Ana County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 17% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 11,932 7.1% -8.5%
High school diploma 56,210 33.6% 4.7%
College diploma 37,262 22.3% -1.4%
Associate degree 14,025 8.4% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 28,353 17% 3.9%
Graduate degree 19,397 11.6% 2.2%
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 Dona Ana County

How much people earn in Dona Ana County

The average annual household income in Dona Ana County was $76,759 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,750, reflecting a -2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dona Ana County
$76,759/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dona Ana County
$53,750/year
-2.8% year-over-year change

Dona Ana County income by age

In Dona Ana County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,356. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,224 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,778, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,293 in earnings. Overall, 78.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,778 -26.8%
25 - 44 $63,356 13.3%
45 - 64 $77,224 12.5%
Over 65 $46,293 4.5%
Above poverty level
164,321
Below poverty level
44,402
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 164,321 78.7% 1.8%
Below poverty level 44,402 21.3% -2.1%

Employment in Dona Ana County

Workforce and job types in Dona Ana County

79.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 60% are employed by private companies, and 24.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
73,547
Blue collar
19,250
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 73,547 79.3% 2.7%
Blue collar 19,250 20.7% -1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
60%
Governmental workers
24.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 8,582 9.2% 1.3%
Private companies 55,694 60% 1.8%
Governmental workers 22,767 24.5% 1.4%
Not for profit companies 5,754 6.2% 5.0%

Transportation in Dona Ana County

How people get around in Dona Ana County

In Dona Ana County, the average commute time is 164 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 96.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
164 min
-26.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 79,489 96.4% 1.6%
Taxicab 42 0% 82.6%
Bus or trolleybus 506 0.6% 79.4%
Motorcycle 43 0% -68.4%
Bicycle 752 0.9% -10.4%
Walk 1,592 1.9% -2.4%
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 Dona Ana County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87936 214 103 $22,043 $34,659
87937 2,990 923 $39,495 $66,649
87940 393 121 $56,750 $60,152
87941 988 277 $31,332 $46,736
88001 37,690 15,602 $33,087 $46,346
88002 1,609 414 $89,565 $101,808
88003 404 0 $0 $0
88004 1,080 0 $0 $0
88005 27,509 11,290 $54,452 $72,338
88007 26,254 9,769 $64,892 $89,609

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FAQs about Dona Ana County demographics 

What is the total population of Dona Ana County?

Dona Ana County has a total population of 217,107 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dona Ana County?

The gender ratio in Dona Ana County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (107,082 residents)
  • 50.7% females (110,025 residents)

What is the median age in Dona Ana County?

The median age in Dona Ana County is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dona Ana County?

The age distribution in Dona Ana County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (40,777 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.6% (40,501 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.9% (54,089 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.6% (44,664 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (37,076 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dona Ana County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dona Ana County is as follows:
  • White: 41.7% (90,559 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (3,856 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (2,743 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (2,634 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (308 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 31.3% (67,962 residents)
  • Other: 22.6% (49,045 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.6% of the population in Dona Ana County.

How many housing units are there in Dona Ana County?

There are 89,695 housing units in Dona Ana County, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dona Ana County has a total of 82,619 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dona Ana County?

Dona Ana County has a median household income of $53,750, representing a -2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Dona Ana County?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.3% (73,547 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.7% (19,250 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (8,582 residents)
  • Private companies: 60% (55,694 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.5% (22,767 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (5,754 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