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

Total population
25,611
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,419/yr
-4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,621
0.5% year-over-year change

Luna County population

How many people live in Luna County

Luna County is home to 25,611 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Luna County locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
25,611
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
13,222
Female
48.4%
12,389
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,222 51.6% 2.3%
Female 12,389 48.4% -0.8%
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 Luna County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.4% are children under 15, then 14.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 20.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.4%
15 to 24
14.1%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
20.5%
Over 65
20.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,480 21.4% 0.4%
15 to 24 3,617 14.1% 0.5%
25 to 44 5,931 23.2% 3.0%
45 to 64 5,253 20.5% -1.6%
Over 65 5,330 20.8% 1.2%
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 Luna County, 83.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.5% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 41.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.2%
Non-citizens
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,421 83.6% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,848 7.2% 0.9%
Non-citizens 2,342 9.1% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
40.1%
Black or African American
1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
41.7%
Other
14.2%
Value Percent
White 10,264 40.1%
Black or African American 384 1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 342 1.3%
Asian 291 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0.1%
Two or more races 10,677 41.7%
Other 3,635 14.2%

Households in Luna County

A peek inside Luna County households

Luna County has 9,223 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 61.5% are families, while the remaining 38.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,223
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,548
Family households
5,675
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,548 38.5% -2.0%
Family households 5,675 61.5% 3.9%
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 Luna County

The housing landscape of Luna County

Luna County's housing consists of 11,621 units, with 56.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% 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 29.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,621
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,614 56.9%
1 unit, attached 95 0.8%
2 units 135 1.2%
3 or 4 units 258 2.2%
5 to 9 units 489 4.2%
10 to 19 units 151 1.3%
20 to 49 units 77 0.7%
50 or more units 183 1.6%
Mobile home 3,448 29.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 171 1.5%
Homes built since 2020
88
-1.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Luna County

In Luna County, the median construction year is 1980. About 5.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% 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 689 5.9% -10.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 607 5.2% 10.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 838 7.2% -16.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,587 13.7% -4.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,077 17.9% 2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,507 13% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,119 18.2% -3.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,553 13.4% 14.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 556 4.8% 27.2%
Built in 2020 or later 88 0.8% -1.1%
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.

Luna County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,223 occupied housing units in Luna County, 70.9% are owner-occupied, while 29.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,223
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,686
Owner occupied
6,537
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,686 29.1% -4.1%
Owner occupied 6,537 70.9% 4.1%
Unoccupied housing units
20.6%
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.

Luna County housing costs

Housing costs in Luna County come to a median of $566 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $650.

Median housing costs per month
$566/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 Luna County
$650/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 Luna County

Luna County education at a glance

About 49.4% of the population in Luna County went to high school, while 20.6% pursued college studies. Another 4.7% earned an associate degree and 8.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,367 12.5% 12.4%
High school diploma 9,378 49.4% -0.9%
College diploma 3,905 20.6% 0.1%
Associate degree 894 4.7% -1.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,621 8.5% -5.0%
Graduate degree 835 4.4% 11.2%
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 Luna County

How much people earn in Luna County

The average annual household income in Luna County was $54,300 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,419, reflecting a -4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Luna County
$54,300/year
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Luna County
$36,419/year
-4.0% year-over-year change

Luna County income by age

In Luna County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $39,528. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,652 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,598, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,298 in earnings. Overall, 71.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,598 -8.6%
25 - 44 $39,528 6.4%
45 - 64 $44,652 -6.3%
Over 65 $31,298 -6.2%
Above poverty level
17,842
Below poverty level
7,074
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,842 71.6% -2.4%
Below poverty level 7,074 28.4% 10.6%

Employment in Luna County

Workforce and job types in Luna County

The job market in Luna County is powered by 8,424 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.3% run their own businesses, 67% are employed by private companies, and 23.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,424
-2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
5,889
Blue collar
2,535
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,889 69.9% 2.0%
Blue collar 2,535 30.1% -10.5%
Employer type
Self employees
5.3%
Private companies
67%
Governmental workers
23.1%
Not for profit companies
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 447 5.3% -9.9%
Private companies 5,648 67% -4.5%
Governmental workers 1,945 23.1% 2.6%
Not for profit companies 384 4.6% 27.6%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-3.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Luna County stands at 5.4%, 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 Luna County

How people get around in Luna County

Commuting methods vary: 90.4% 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 7,486 90.4% -4.5%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.1% -72.7%
Motorcycle 7 0.1% -30.0%
Bicycle 97 1.2% 410.5%
Walk 141 1.7% -4.1%
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 Luna County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88029 1,198 432 $26,090 $37,729
88030 24,413 8,791 $37,417 $55,115

Explore more communities

FAQs about Luna County demographics 

What is the total population of Luna County?

Luna County has a total population of 25,611 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 Luna County?

The gender ratio in Luna County is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (13,222 residents)
  • 48.4% females (12,389 residents)

What is the median age in Luna County?

The median age in Luna County is 36.3.

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

The age distribution in Luna County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.4% (5,480 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.1% (3,617 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (5,931 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.5% (5,253 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.8% (5,330 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Luna County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Luna County is as follows:
  • White: 40.1% (10,264 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.5% (384 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (342 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (291 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 41.7% (10,677 residents)
  • Other: 14.2% (3,635 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.6% of the population in Luna County.

How many housing units are there in Luna County?

There are 11,621 housing units in Luna County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Luna County has a total of 9,223 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Luna County?

Luna County has a median household income of $36,419, representing a -4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Luna County, with a workforce of 8,424 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.9% (5,889 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.1% (2,535 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.3% (447 residents)
  • Private companies: 67% (5,648 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.1% (1,945 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.6% (384 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