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

Total population
73,733
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,015/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
28,403
1.0% year-over-year change

Lea County population

How many people live in Lea County

Lea County is home to 73,733 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.9% of Lea County locals are male, and 48.1% are female.

Total population
73,733
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.9%
38,292
Female
48.1%
35,441
Value Percent YoY change
Male 38,292 51.9% 0.9%
Female 35,441 48.1% 0.7%
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 Lea County is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.2% are children under 15, then 15.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.7% of the population, while another 20.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.2%
15 to 24
15.8%
25 to 44
27.7%
45 to 64
20.9%
Over 65
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 17,838 24.2% -1.2%
15 to 24 11,680 15.8% 2.9%
25 to 44 20,421 27.7% 2.0%
45 to 64 15,416 20.9% -0.6%
Over 65 8,378 11.4% 2.0%
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 Lea County, 80.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 42.9% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 37.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
80.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.1%
Non-citizens
14.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 59,422 80.6% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,753 5.1% -0.3%
Non-citizens 10,558 14.3% 4.5%
Racial breakdown
White
42.9%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
37.9%
Other
13.8%
Value Percent
White 31,609 42.9%
Black or African American 2,525 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 687 0.9%
Asian 788 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 27,944 37.9%
Other 10,155 13.8%

Households in Lea County

A peek inside Lea County households

Lea County has 24,670 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.5% are families, while the remaining 31.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,670
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,772
Family households
16,898
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,772 31.5% 1.5%
Family households 16,898 68.5% -0.1%
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 Lea County

The housing landscape of Lea County

Lea County's housing consists of 28,403 units, with 68.9% 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 17.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
28,403
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,557 68.9%
1 unit, attached 504 1.8%
2 units 128 0.4%
3 or 4 units 957 3.4%
5 to 9 units 416 1.5%
10 to 19 units 626 2.2%
20 to 49 units 390 1.4%
50 or more units 583 2%
Mobile home 4,911 17.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 331 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
503
31.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lea County

In Lea County, the median construction year is 1979. About 3.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 893 3.1% 10.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 765 2.7% -19.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,245 15% -7.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,148 14.6% -4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,658 16.4% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,554 16% 8.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,162 7.6% 2.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,503 8.8% 6.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,972 14% 10.4%
Built in 2020 or later 503 1.8% 31.7%
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.

Lea County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,670 occupied housing units in Lea County, 71.2% are owner-occupied, while 28.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,670
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,111
Owner occupied
17,559
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,111 28.8% -5.1%
Owner occupied 17,559 71.2% 2.9%
Unoccupied housing units
13.1%
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.

Lea County housing costs

Housing costs in Lea County come to a median of $867 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,101.

Median housing costs per month
$867/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 Lea County
$1,101/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 Lea County

Lea County education at a glance

About 46.2% of the population in Lea County went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 7.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,173 11.9% 1.6%
High school diploma 23,999 46.2% 2.9%
College diploma 10,838 20.8% -1.1%
Associate degree 3,827 7.4% -1.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,824 7.4% -3.9%
Graduate degree 3,318 6.4% 7.6%
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 Lea County

How much people earn in Lea County

The average annual household income in Lea County was $91,389 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,015, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lea County
$91,389/year
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lea County
$68,015/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Lea County income by age

In Lea County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,499. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,254 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,224, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,679 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,224 9.4%
25 - 44 $75,499 -1.1%
45 - 64 $80,254 1.0%
Over 65 $35,679 1.4%
Above poverty level
57,116
Below poverty level
13,064
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 57,116 81.4% 1.1%
Below poverty level 13,064 18.6% 1.6%

Employment in Lea County

Workforce and job types in Lea County

The job market in Lea County is powered by 31,081 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 67.8% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
31,081
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
19,377
Blue collar
11,704
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 19,377 62.3% 3.7%
Blue collar 11,704 37.7% -3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
67.8%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 3,583 11.5% 7.0%
Private companies 21,080 67.8% 0.9%
Governmental workers 4,887 15.7% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 1,531 4.9% -13.1%
Unemployment rate
6.9%
-1.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lea County stands at 6.9%, 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 Lea County

How people get around in Lea County

In Lea County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.6% 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.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 28,454 93.6% 0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 91 0.3% 68.5%
Motorcycle 73 0.2% -2.7%
Bicycle 45 0.2% 221.4%
Walk 418 1.4% 53.7%
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 Lea County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88260 15,160 4,608 $75,476 $85,839
88262 20 7 $0 $0
88264 9 9 $0 $0
88265 432 116 $0 $88,456
88267 1,347 590 $52,250 $69,347
88114 12 8 $0 $0
88231 3,255 1,199 $51,417 $86,364
88240 41,557 14,532 $63,270 $89,926
88242 8,472 2,742 $90,000 $115,358
88252 2,364 859 $0 $91,418

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FAQs about Lea County demographics 

What is the total population of Lea County?

Lea County has a total population of 73,733 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lea County?

The gender ratio in Lea County is as follows:
  • 51.9% males (38,292 residents)
  • 48.1% females (35,441 residents)

What is the median age in Lea County?

The median age in Lea County is 32.5.

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

The age distribution in Lea County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.2% (17,838 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.8% (11,680 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.7% (20,421 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.9% (15,416 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.4% (8,378 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lea County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lea County is as follows:
  • White: 42.9% (31,609 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (2,525 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (687 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (788 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 37.9% (27,944 residents)
  • Other: 13.8% (10,155 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 80.6% of the population in Lea County.

How many housing units are there in Lea County?

There are 28,403 housing units in Lea County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lea County has a total of 24,670 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lea County?

Lea County has a median household income of $68,015, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.1% in Lea County, with a workforce of 31,081 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.3% (19,377 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.7% (11,704 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (3,583 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.8% (21,080 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (4,887 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.9% (1,531 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