Ruidoso, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,699
-0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,736/yr
4.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,294
0.4% year-over-year change

Ruidoso population

How many people live in Ruidoso

Ruidoso is home to 7,699 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Ruidoso locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
7,699
-0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
3,834
Female
50.2%
3,865
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,834 49.8% 2.0%
Female 3,865 50.2% -2.0%
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 Ruidoso is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 14% are children under 15, then 7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.5% of the population, while another 20.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14%
15 to 24
7%
25 to 44
29.5%
45 to 64
20.7%
Over 65
28.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,079 14% -11.6%
15 to 24 538 7% -25.3%
25 to 44 2,269 29.5% 12.3%
45 to 64 1,597 20.7% -10.0%
Over 65 2,216 28.8% 12.8%
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 Ruidoso, 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, 73.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 17.7% 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 7,278 94.5% 2.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 239 3.1% -50.0%
Non-citizens 182 2.4% 18.9%
Racial breakdown
White
73.7%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.6%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
17.7%
Other
4.2%
Value Percent
White 5,675 73.7%
Black or African American 173 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 122 1.6%
Asian 46 0.6%
Two or more races 1,362 17.7%
Other 321 4.2%

Households in Ruidoso

A peek inside Ruidoso households

Ruidoso has 3,941 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.1% are families, while the remaining 46.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,941
6.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,848
Family households
2,093
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,848 46.9% 1.6%
Family households 2,093 53.1% 11.1%
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 Ruidoso

The housing landscape of Ruidoso

Ruidoso's housing consists of 8,294 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 15.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,294
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,758 69.4%
1 unit, attached 279 3.4%
2 units 44 0.5%
3 or 4 units 296 3.6%
5 to 9 units 193 2.3%
10 to 19 units 125 1.5%
20 to 49 units 266 3.2%
50 or more units 36 0.4%
Mobile home 1,297 15.6%
Homes built since 2020
6
50.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ruidoso

In Ruidoso, the median construction year is 1981. About 2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 167 2% 45.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 219 2.6% -8.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 379 4.6% -27.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 771 9.3% -7.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,348 28.3% 6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,826 22% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 790 9.5% -23.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,585 19.1% 14.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 203 2.4% 86.2%
Built in 2020 or later 6 0.1% 50.0%
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.

Ruidoso occupancy rates

Out of the 3,941 occupied housing units in Ruidoso, 68.4% are owner-occupied, while 31.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 52.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,941
6.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,244
Owner occupied
2,697
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,244 31.6% 10.4%
Owner occupied 2,697 68.4% 4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
52.5%
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.

Ruidoso housing costs

Housing costs in Ruidoso come to a median of $875 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $944.

Median housing costs per month
$875/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 Ruidoso
$944/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 Ruidoso

Ruidoso education at a glance

About 22.5% of the population in Ruidoso went to high school, while 27% pursued college studies. Another 15.4% earned an associate degree and 23.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 92 1.4% -46.8%
High school diploma 1,455 22.5% -13.8%
College diploma 1,746 27% 3.5%
Associate degree 993 15.4% 20.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,503 23.2% 18.7%
Graduate degree 676 10.5% 25.9%
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 Ruidoso

How much people earn in Ruidoso

The average annual household income in Ruidoso was $68,084 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,736, reflecting a +4.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ruidoso
$68,084/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ruidoso
$52,736/year
4.9% year-over-year change

Ruidoso income by age

In Ruidoso, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $36,013. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,032 overall. Overall, 79.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $36,013 6.3%
45 - 64 $74,032 7.2%
Over 65 $52,981 5.3%
Above poverty level
6,050
Below poverty level
1,522
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,050 79.9% -4.5%
Below poverty level 1,522 20.1% 26.5%

Average renter income in Ruidoso

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Ruidoso, their median household income was $22,806 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 49.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$22,806
Rent-to-income ratio
49.7%
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 Ruidoso

Workforce and job types in Ruidoso

The job market in Ruidoso is powered by 3,501 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.4% run their own businesses, 61% are employed by private companies, and 16.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,501
-3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
3,025
Blue collar
476
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,025 86.4% 0.8%
Blue collar 476 13.6% -22.7%
Employer type
Self employees
19.4%
Private companies
61%
Governmental workers
16.6%
Not for profit companies
3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 679 19.4% -18.1%
Private companies 2,136 61% -1.2%
Governmental workers 580 16.6% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 106 3% 53.6%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
-35.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ruidoso stands at 3.3%, 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 Ruidoso

How people get around in Ruidoso

Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% 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 2,838 82.4% -2.2%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.3% -25.0%
Bicycle 23 0.7% 27.8%
Walk 44 1.3% -26.7%
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 Ruidoso by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88345 7,835 3,974 $53,971 $72,802
88355 293 145 $0 $49,599

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FAQs about Ruidoso demographics 

What is the total population of Ruidoso?

Ruidoso has a total population of 7,699 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 Ruidoso?

The gender ratio in Ruidoso is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (3,834 residents)
  • 50.2% females (3,865 residents)

What is the median age in Ruidoso?

The median age in Ruidoso is 44.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ruidoso?

The age distribution in Ruidoso is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14% (1,079 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7% (538 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.5% (2,269 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.7% (1,597 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.8% (2,216 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ruidoso?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ruidoso is as follows:
  • White: 73.7% (5,675 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (173 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.6% (122 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (46 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 17.7% (1,362 residents)
  • Other: 4.2% (321 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Ruidoso?

There are 8,294 housing units in Ruidoso, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ruidoso has a total of 3,941 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ruidoso?

Ruidoso has a median household income of $52,736, representing a +4.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in Ruidoso, with a workforce of 3,501 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.4% (3,025 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.6% (476 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.4% (679 residents)
  • Private companies: 61% (2,136 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.6% (580 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3% (106 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