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

Total population
153,604
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,636/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
60,925
1.9% year-over-year change

Sandoval County population

How many people live in Sandoval County

Sandoval County is home to 153,604 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Sandoval County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
153,604
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
75,976
Female
50.5%
77,628
Value Percent YoY change
Male 75,976 49.5% 1.3%
Female 77,628 50.5% 1.4%
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 Sandoval County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.5% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
25.5%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
20%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 26,836 17.5% -1.0%
15 to 24 18,393 12% 2.1%
25 to 44 39,196 25.5% 2.3%
45 to 64 38,374 25% -0.0%
Over 65 30,805 20% 3.7%
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 Sandoval County, 93.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 50.9% of locals are Caucasian, 2.3% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 12.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 8.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 24.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 143,137 93.2% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,487 4.2% -12.2%
Non-citizens 3,980 2.6% 8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
50.9%
Black or African American
2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
12.1%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
24.5%
Other
8.8%
Value Percent
White 78,213 50.9%
Black or African American 3,501 2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 18,548 12.1%
Asian 2,084 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 234 0.2%
Two or more races 37,587 24.5%
Other 13,437 8.8%

Households in Sandoval County

A peek inside Sandoval County households

Sandoval County has 56,895 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.2% are families, while the remaining 28.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
56,895
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
16,416
Family households
40,479
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 16,416 28.8% 6.3%
Family households 40,479 71.2% 0.4%
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 Sandoval County

The housing landscape of Sandoval County

Sandoval County's housing consists of 60,925 units, with 84.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
60,925
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 51,377 84.3%
1 unit, attached 1,529 2.5%
2 units 203 0.3%
3 or 4 units 1,373 2.2%
5 to 9 units 524 0.9%
10 to 19 units 343 0.6%
20 to 49 units 218 0.4%
50 or more units 1,057 1.7%
Mobile home 4,250 7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 51 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,496
55.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sandoval County

In Sandoval County, the median construction year is 1997. About 2.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 27.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,300 2.1% 10.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 322 0.5% -17.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,044 1.7% -0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,047 3.4% -13.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,496 12.3% 3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,802 17.7% 0.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,070 18.2% -2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16,676 27.4% 1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,672 14.2% 8.8%
Built in 2020 or later 1,496 2.5% 55.0%
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.

Sandoval County occupancy rates

Out of the 56,895 occupied housing units in Sandoval County, 83.5% are owner-occupied, while 16.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
56,895
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,365
Owner occupied
47,530
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,365 16.5% 2.5%
Owner occupied 47,530 83.5% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
6.6%
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.

Sandoval County housing costs

Housing costs in Sandoval County come to a median of $1,248 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,427.

Median housing costs per month
$1,248/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 Sandoval County
$1,427/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 Sandoval County

Sandoval County education at a glance

About 32.3% of the population in Sandoval County went to high school, while 24.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 18.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,610 2.2% -10.7%
High school diploma 38,882 32.3% 2.8%
College diploma 29,372 24.4% 1.6%
Associate degree 12,269 10.2% -0.0%
Bachelor's degree 22,439 18.7% 5.1%
Graduate degree 14,641 12.2% 0.0%
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 Sandoval County

How much people earn in Sandoval County

The average annual household income in Sandoval County was $108,102 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,636, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sandoval County
$108,102/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sandoval County
$86,636/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Sandoval County income by age

In Sandoval County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $95,886. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $104,115 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,015, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,791 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,015 6.5%
25 - 44 $95,886 6.9%
45 - 64 $104,115 3.1%
Over 65 $65,791 -0.6%
Above poverty level
136,584
Below poverty level
15,029
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 136,584 90.1% 1.6%
Below poverty level 15,029 9.9% 0.8%

Employment in Sandoval County

Workforce and job types in Sandoval County

The job market in Sandoval County is powered by 69,497 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 60.7% are employed by private companies, and 21.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
69,497
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
56,127
Blue collar
13,370
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 56,127 80.8% 0.2%
Blue collar 13,370 19.2% 9.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
60.7%
Governmental workers
21.7%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,389 9.2% 7.0%
Private companies 42,199 60.7% 1.3%
Governmental workers 15,097 21.7% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 5,812 8.4% 0.8%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
-2.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sandoval County stands at 5.2%, 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 Sandoval County

How people get around in Sandoval County

In Sandoval County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 54,677 79.5% -0.4%
Bus or trolleybus 153 0.2% -21.9%
Railroad 198 0.3% -26.4%
Motorcycle 112 0.2% 0.0%
Bicycle 274 0.4% 76.8%
Walk 705 1% -11.1%
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 Sandoval County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87001 3,560 1,032 $68,547 $101,416
87004 11,237 4,457 $65,743 $86,564
87013 5,251 1,527 $32,942 $45,138
87018 561 139 $30,250 $65,217
87024 2,692 775 $60,727 $67,837
87025 1,299 633 $153,936 $175,634
87027 237 124 $15,625 $20,055
87041 691 301 $80,662 $77,367
87043 4,223 2,160 $109,750 $137,921
87044 289 141 $60,313 $72,187

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FAQs about Sandoval County demographics 

What is the total population of Sandoval County?

Sandoval County has a total population of 153,604 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sandoval County?

The gender ratio in Sandoval County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (75,976 residents)
  • 50.5% females (77,628 residents)

What is the median age in Sandoval County?

The median age in Sandoval County is 41.3.

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

The age distribution in Sandoval County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (26,836 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (18,393 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.5% (39,196 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (38,374 residents)
  • Over 65: 20% (30,805 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sandoval County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sandoval County is as follows:
  • White: 50.9% (78,213 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.3% (3,501 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 12.1% (18,548 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (2,084 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (234 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 24.5% (37,587 residents)
  • Other: 8.8% (13,437 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.2% of the population in Sandoval County.

How many housing units are there in Sandoval County?

There are 60,925 housing units in Sandoval County, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sandoval County has a total of 56,895 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sandoval County?

Sandoval County has a median household income of $86,636, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Sandoval County, with a workforce of 69,497 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.8% (56,127 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.2% (13,370 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (6,389 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.7% (42,199 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.7% (15,097 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (5,812 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