Melrose, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
447
-16.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$32,750/yr
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
270
-13.7% year-over-year change

Melrose population

How many people live in Melrose

Melrose is home to 447 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.9% of Melrose locals are male, and 44.1% are female.

Total population
447
-16.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.9%
250
Female
44.1%
197
Value Percent YoY change
Male 250 55.9% -9.1%
Female 197 44.1% -24.5%
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 Melrose is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 12.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.1% of the population, while another 34.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
12.5%
25 to 44
18.1%
45 to 64
34.2%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 81 18.1% -28.3%
15 to 24 56 12.5% 3.7%
25 to 44 81 18.1% 0.0%
45 to 64 153 34.2% -18.2%
Over 65 76 17% -24.8%
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 Melrose, 88.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 11.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 13% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
11.2%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 394 88.1% -18.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 50 11.2% -7.4%
Non-citizens 3 0.7% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
68.7%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
13%
Other
17%
Value Percent
White 307 68.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6 1.3%
Two or more races 58 13%
Other 76 17%

Households in Melrose

A peek inside Melrose households

Melrose has 191 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55% are families, while the remaining 45% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
191
-17.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
86
Family households
105
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 86 45% -15.7%
Family households 105 55% -18.0%
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 Melrose

The housing landscape of Melrose

Melrose's housing consists of 270 units, with 69.6% 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 27% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
270
-13.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 188 69.6%
2 units 6 2.2%
20 to 49 units 3 1.1%
Mobile home 73 27%
Homes built since 2020
4
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Melrose

In Melrose, the median construction year is 1961. About 24.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 13% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 65 24.1% -27.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 35 13% -25.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32 11.8% 60.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 36 13.3% 16.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 38 14.1% -22.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 18 6.7% -28.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7 2.6% -50.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7 2.6% -22.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 28 10.4% -3.5%
Built in 2020 or later 4 1.5% N/A
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.

Melrose occupancy rates

Out of the 191 occupied housing units in Melrose, 74.9% are owner-occupied, while 25.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 29.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
191
-17.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
48
Owner occupied
143
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 48 25.1% -5.9%
Owner occupied 143 74.9% -20.1%
Unoccupied housing units
29.3%
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.

Melrose housing costs

Housing costs in Melrose come to a median of $382 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $833.

Median housing costs per month
$382/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 Melrose
$833/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 Melrose

Melrose education at a glance

About 29.5% of the population in Melrose went to high school, while 37.4% pursued college studies. Another 12.9% earned an associate degree and 5.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 0.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 50 14% -15.2%
High school diploma 105 29.5% -11.8%
College diploma 133 37.4% -1.5%
Associate degree 46 12.9% -36.1%
Bachelor's degree 19 5.3% -5.0%
Graduate degree 3 0.8% N/A
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 Melrose

How much people earn in Melrose

The average annual household income in Melrose was $55,326 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $32,750, reflecting a -1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Melrose
$55,326/year
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Melrose
$32,750/year
-1.8% year-over-year change

Melrose income by age

In Melrose, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,679. Overall, 61% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $57,679 2.5%
Over 65 $60,417 32.4%
Above poverty level
270
Below poverty level
173
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 270 61% -29.5%
Below poverty level 173 39% 13.1%

Average renter income in Melrose

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Melrose, their median household income was $16,875 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 59.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$16,875
Rent-to-income ratio
59.2%
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 Melrose

Workforce and job types in Melrose

The job market in Melrose is powered by 143 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 51.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 48.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
143
-13.9% year-over-year change
White collar
74
Blue collar
69
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 74 51.8% -33.9%
Blue collar 69 48.2% 27.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9 6.3% -25.0%
Private companies 103 72% -7.2%
Governmental workers 16 11.2% -33.3%
Not for profit companies 15 10.5% -21.1%
Unemployment rate
13.3%
29.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Melrose stands at 13.3%, 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 Melrose

How people get around in Melrose

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 131 91.6% -19.6%
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 Melrose by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88124 891 388 $51,618 $85,139

Explore more communities

FAQs about Melrose demographics 

What is the total population of Melrose?

Melrose has a total population of 447 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 -16.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Melrose?

The gender ratio in Melrose is as follows:
  • 55.9% males (250 residents)
  • 44.1% females (197 residents)

What is the median age in Melrose?

The median age in Melrose is 45.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Melrose?

The age distribution in Melrose is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (81 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.5% (56 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.1% (81 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 34.2% (153 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (76 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Melrose?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Melrose is as follows:
  • White: 68.7% (307 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (6 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13% (58 residents)
  • Other: 17% (76 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.1% of the population in Melrose.

How many housing units are there in Melrose?

There are 270 housing units in Melrose, reflecting a -13.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Melrose has a total of 191 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Melrose?

Melrose has a median household income of $32,750, representing a -1.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Melrose?

The employment rate is 86.7% in Melrose, with a workforce of 143 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 51.8% (74 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 48.2% (69 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (9 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (103 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (16 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (15 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