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

Total population
20,224
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,303/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,871
0.6% year-over-year change

Lincoln County population

How many people live in Lincoln County

Lincoln County is home to 20,224 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Lincoln County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
20,224
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
9,982
Female
50.6%
10,242
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,982 49.4% 0.9%
Female 10,242 50.6% -0.9%
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 Lincoln County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.5% are children under 15, then 8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.3% of the population, while another 26.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.5%
15 to 24
8%
25 to 44
20.3%
45 to 64
26.9%
Over 65
31.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,724 13.5% -2.1%
15 to 24 1,628 8% -3.4%
25 to 44 4,111 20.3% 4.3%
45 to 64 5,434 26.9% -3.6%
Over 65 6,327 31.3% 2.4%
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 Lincoln County, 94.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 19.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,103 94.5% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 634 3.1% -35.3%
Non-citizens 487 2.4% -18.8%
Racial breakdown
White
69.6%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.7%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
19.7%
Other
5.4%
Value Percent
White 14,070 69.6%
Black or African American 205 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 755 3.7%
Asian 106 0.5%
Two or more races 3,988 19.7%
Other 1,100 5.4%

Households in Lincoln County

A peek inside Lincoln County households

Lincoln County has 10,000 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.6% are families, while the remaining 40.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,000
6.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,035
Family households
5,965
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,035 40.4% 7.4%
Family households 5,965 59.6% 6.1%
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 Lincoln County

The housing landscape of Lincoln County

Lincoln County's housing consists of 17,871 units, with 63.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 24.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,871
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,382 63.7%
1 unit, attached 561 3.1%
2 units 206 1.2%
3 or 4 units 434 2.4%
5 to 9 units 339 1.9%
10 to 19 units 230 1.3%
20 to 49 units 314 1.8%
50 or more units 41 0.2%
Mobile home 4,352 24.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
138
119.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lincoln County

In Lincoln County, the median construction year is 1985. About 3.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% 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 575 3.2% 1.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 521 2.9% -14.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 718 4% -16.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,480 8.3% 6.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,745 21% 3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,607 20.2% -1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,188 12.2% -8.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,052 22.7% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 847 4.7% 21.0%
Built in 2020 or later 138 0.8% 119.0%
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.

Lincoln County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,000 occupied housing units in Lincoln County, 76.8% are owner-occupied, while 23.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 44% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,000
6.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,319
Owner occupied
7,681
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,319 23.2% 20.7%
Owner occupied 7,681 76.8% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
44.0%
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.

Lincoln County housing costs

Housing costs in Lincoln County come to a median of $775 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $956.

Median housing costs per month
$775/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 Lincoln County
$956/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 Lincoln County

Lincoln County education at a glance

About 29% of the population in Lincoln County went to high school, while 26.1% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 18.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 326 1.9% -36.8%
High school diploma 4,893 29% -12.8%
College diploma 4,393 26.1% 2.4%
Associate degree 1,986 11.8% 16.3%
Bachelor's degree 3,122 18.5% 7.8%
Graduate degree 2,135 12.7% 20.9%
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 Lincoln County

How much people earn in Lincoln County

The average annual household income in Lincoln County was $73,624 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,303, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lincoln County
$73,624/year
-2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lincoln County
$53,303/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Lincoln County income by age

In Lincoln County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $33,750. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,762 overall. Overall, 81.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $33,750 -1.4%
45 - 64 $71,762 4.2%
Over 65 $53,842 3.7%
Above poverty level
16,148
Below poverty level
3,673
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,148 81.5% -3.5%
Below poverty level 3,673 18.5% 22.6%

Employment in Lincoln County

Workforce and job types in Lincoln County

The job market in Lincoln County is powered by 8,500 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 24.4% run their own businesses, 54.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,500
-3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
6,755
Blue collar
1,745
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,755 79.5% -1.9%
Blue collar 1,745 20.5% -8.0%
Employer type
Self employees
24.4%
Private companies
54.9%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,078 24.4% -14.7%
Private companies 4,670 54.9% -0.3%
Governmental workers 1,399 16.5% -5.3%
Not for profit companies 353 4.2% 84.8%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-14.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lincoln County stands at 5.1%, 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 Lincoln County

How people get around in Lincoln County

Commuting methods vary: 84% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 6,867 84% -3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.1% -25.0%
Bicycle 25 0.3% 38.9%
Walk 65 0.8% -29.4%
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 Lincoln County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88301 1,197 594 $43,900 $64,865
88312 3,287 1,502 $80,345 $110,459
88316 2,194 1,171 $54,080 $75,684
88318 321 166 $73,125 $74,161
88324 18 11 $0 $0
88336 421 242 $0 $50,121
88338 246 134 $59,276 $82,160
88341 653 318 $48,393 $85,801
87011 16 8 $0 $0

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FAQs about Lincoln County demographics 

What is the total population of Lincoln County?

Lincoln County has a total population of 20,224 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 -0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lincoln County?

The gender ratio in Lincoln County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (9,982 residents)
  • 50.6% females (10,242 residents)

What is the median age in Lincoln County?

The median age in Lincoln County is 52.4.

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

The age distribution in Lincoln County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.5% (2,724 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8% (1,628 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.3% (4,111 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.9% (5,434 residents)
  • Over 65: 31.3% (6,327 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lincoln County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lincoln County is as follows:
  • White: 69.6% (14,070 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (205 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.7% (755 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (106 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.7% (3,988 residents)
  • Other: 5.4% (1,100 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.5% of the population in Lincoln County.

How many housing units are there in Lincoln County?

There are 17,871 housing units in Lincoln County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lincoln County has a total of 10,000 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County has a median household income of $53,303, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.9% in Lincoln County, with a workforce of 8,500 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.5% (6,755 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.5% (1,745 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 24.4% (2,078 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.9% (4,670 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (1,399 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.2% (353 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