Meadow Lake, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,259
7.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$43,649/yr
12.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,620
0.6% year-over-year change

Meadow Lake population

How many people live in Meadow Lake

Meadow Lake is home to 4,259 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 39.3% of Meadow Lake locals are male, and 60.7% are female.

Total population
4,259
7.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
39.3%
1,674
Female
60.7%
2,585
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,674 39.3% 8.8%
Female 2,585 60.7% 6.8%
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 Meadow Lake is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 24.5% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.8% of the population, while another 30.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
24.5%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
17.8%
45 to 64
30.4%
Over 65
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,042 24.5% -5.3%
15 to 24 691 16.2% 58.5%
25 to 44 760 17.8% -13.7%
45 to 64 1,293 30.4% 19.5%
Over 65 473 11.1% 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 Meadow Lake, 71.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 19.5% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 52.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
71.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.3%
Non-citizens
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,033 71.2% 4.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 397 9.3% 15.4%
Non-citizens 829 19.5% 18.6%
Racial breakdown
White
26.6%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
52.7%
Other
16.4%
Value Percent
White 1,132 26.6%
Black or African American 12 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 174 4.1%
Two or more races 2,244 52.7%
Other 697 16.4%

Households in Meadow Lake

A peek inside Meadow Lake households

Meadow Lake has 1,372 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.8% are families, while the remaining 30.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,372
9.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
415
Family households
957
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 415 30.2% 21.7%
Family households 957 69.8% 5.3%
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 Meadow Lake

The housing landscape of Meadow Lake

Meadow Lake's housing consists of 1,620 units, with 18.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 81.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,620
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 301 18.6%
Mobile home 1,319 81.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Meadow Lake

In Meadow Lake, the median construction year is 1992. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 33 2% 22.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 21 1.3% -30.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 283 17.5% 26.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 363 22.4% -8.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 612 37.8% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 258 15.9% 4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 50 3.1% 400.0%
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.

Meadow Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 1,372 occupied housing units in Meadow Lake, 82.8% are owner-occupied, while 17.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,372
9.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
236
Owner occupied
1,136
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 236 17.2% -10.9%
Owner occupied 1,136 82.8% 15.3%
Unoccupied housing units
15.3%
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.

Meadow Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Meadow Lake come to a median of $563 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $908.

Median housing costs per month
$563/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 Meadow Lake
$908/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 Meadow Lake

Meadow Lake education at a glance

About 50.3% of the population in Meadow Lake went to high school, while 18.6% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 9.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 403 13.5% 27.9%
High school diploma 1,501 50.3% 10.9%
College diploma 554 18.6% 5.1%
Associate degree 160 5.4% 72.0%
Bachelor's degree 283 9.5% -4.1%
Graduate degree 83 2.8% -21.7%
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 Meadow Lake

How much people earn in Meadow Lake

The average annual household income in Meadow Lake was $51,480 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +11.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $43,649, reflecting a +12.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Meadow Lake
$51,480/year
11.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Meadow Lake
$43,649/year
12.3% year-over-year change

Meadow Lake income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,760 overall. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $55,760 1.8%
Over 65 $18,681 19.6%
Above poverty level
3,381
Below poverty level
878
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,381 79.4% 22.4%
Below poverty level 878 20.6% -26.6%

Average renter income in Meadow Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Meadow Lake, their median household income was $13,873 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 78.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$13,873
Rent-to-income ratio
78.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Meadow Lake

Workforce and job types in Meadow Lake

The job market in Meadow Lake is powered by 1,684 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 57.5% are employed by private companies, and 26.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,684
15.4% year-over-year change
White collar
1,071
Blue collar
613
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,071 63.6% 10.1%
Blue collar 613 36.4% 26.1%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
57.5%
Governmental workers
26.7%
Not for profit companies
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 220 13.1% 56.0%
Private companies 969 57.5% 20.1%
Governmental workers 450 26.7% -5.7%
Not for profit companies 45 2.7% 32.4%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-9.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Meadow Lake stands at 4.8%, 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 Meadow Lake

How people get around in Meadow Lake

In Meadow Lake, the average commute time is 41 minutes.

Commute time
41 min
3.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,468 88.8% 7.2%
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.

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FAQs about Meadow Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Meadow Lake?

Meadow Lake has a total population of 4,259 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 +7.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Meadow Lake?

The gender ratio in Meadow Lake is as follows:
  • 39.3% males (1,674 residents)
  • 60.7% females (2,585 residents)

What is the median age in Meadow Lake?

The median age in Meadow Lake is 39.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Meadow Lake?

The age distribution in Meadow Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 24.5% (1,042 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (691 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.8% (760 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.4% (1,293 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.1% (473 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Meadow Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Meadow Lake is as follows:
  • White: 26.6% (1,132 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (12 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.1% (174 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 52.7% (2,244 residents)
  • Other: 16.4% (697 residents)

What percentage of the population in Meadow Lake are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 71.2% of the population in Meadow Lake.

How many housing units are there in Meadow Lake?

There are 1,620 housing units in Meadow Lake, 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 Meadow Lake and what is the average household size?

Meadow Lake has a total of 1,372 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Meadow Lake?

Meadow Lake has a median household income of $43,649, representing a +12.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Meadow Lake?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Meadow Lake, with a workforce of 1,684 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.6% (1,071 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.4% (613 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (220 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.5% (969 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.7% (450 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.7% (45 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