Santa Cruz, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
228
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$33,750/yr
-2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
115
-0.9% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz population

How many people live in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is home to 228 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Santa Cruz locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
228
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
114
Female
50%
114
Value Percent YoY change
Male 114 50% 11.8%
Female 114 50% -7.3%
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 Santa Cruz is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 17.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.1% of the population, while another 18.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 9.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
17.5%
25 to 44
35.1%
45 to 64
18.4%
Over 65
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 44 19.3% -6.4%
15 to 24 40 17.5% -23.1%
25 to 44 80 35.1% 17.6%
45 to 64 42 18.4% 5.0%
Over 65 22 9.6% 22.2%
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 Santa Cruz, 89.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 11.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.5%
Non-citizens
7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 204 89.5% -1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8 3.5% 166.7%
Non-citizens 16 7% 6.7%
Racial breakdown
White
21%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
11%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.8%
Other
54.8%
Value Percent
White 48 21%
Black or African American 3 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 11%
Two or more races 27 11.8%
Other 125 54.8%

Households in Santa Cruz

A peek inside Santa Cruz households

Santa Cruz has 104 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.7% are families, while the remaining 42.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
104
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
44
Family households
60
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 44 42.3% 15.8%
Family households 60 57.7% -4.8%
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 Santa Cruz

The housing landscape of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz's housing consists of 115 units, with 47.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 33.9% 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 14.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
115
-0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 55 47.8%
1 unit, attached 39 33.9%
2 units 4 3.5%
Mobile home 17 14.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Cruz

In Santa Cruz, the median construction year is 1976. 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 13 11.3% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 16 13.9% 33.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4 3.5% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 44 38.3% -4.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19 16.5% 11.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11 9.6% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8 7% -33.3%
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.

Santa Cruz occupancy rates

Out of the 104 occupied housing units in Santa Cruz, 27.9% are owner-occupied, while 72.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
104
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
75
Owner occupied
29
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 75 72.1% -8.5%
Owner occupied 29 27.9% 52.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.6%
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.

Santa Cruz housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Cruz come to a median of $833 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $850.

Median housing costs per month
$833/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 Santa Cruz
$850/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 Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz education at a glance

About 39.6% of the population in Santa Cruz went to high school, while 16.4% pursued college studies. Another 23.3% earned an associate degree and 4.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17 10.7% -32.0%
High school diploma 63 39.6% -3.1%
College diploma 26 16.4% 52.9%
Associate degree 37 23.3% 23.3%
Bachelor's degree 7 4.4% -12.5%
Graduate degree 9 5.7% 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 Santa Cruz

How much people earn in Santa Cruz

The average annual household income in Santa Cruz was $43,585 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +15.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $33,750, reflecting a -2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Cruz
$43,585/year
15.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Cruz
$33,750/year
-2.9% year-over-year change

Santa Cruz income by age

In Santa Cruz, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $36,538. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $13,750 overall. Overall, 68.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $36,538 -4.9%
45 - 64 $13,750 3.4%
Above poverty level
157
Below poverty level
71
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 157 68.9% -4.3%
Below poverty level 71 31.1% 16.4%

Average renter income in Santa Cruz

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Santa Cruz, their median household income was $33,088 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,088
Rent-to-income ratio
30.8%
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 Santa Cruz

Workforce and job types in Santa Cruz

The job market in Santa Cruz is powered by 90 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 24.4% run their own businesses, 60% are employed by private companies, and 12.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
90
8.4% year-over-year change
White collar
70
Blue collar
20
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 70 77.8% 0.0%
Blue collar 20 22.2% 53.9%
Employer type
Self employees
24.4%
Private companies
60%
Governmental workers
12.2%
Not for profit companies
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 22 24.4% 144.4%
Private companies 54 60% -3.6%
Governmental workers 11 12.2% -38.9%
Not for profit companies 3 3.3% N/A
Unemployment rate
2.2%
-77.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Cruz stands at 2.2%, 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 Santa Cruz

How people get around in Santa Cruz

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 82 91.1% 26.1%
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 Santa Cruz by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87567 2,003 666 $0 $78,871

Explore more communities

FAQs about Santa Cruz demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz has a total population of 228 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Cruz?

The gender ratio in Santa Cruz is as follows:
  • 50% males (114 residents)
  • 50% females (114 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Cruz?

The median age in Santa Cruz is 34.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Cruz?

The age distribution in Santa Cruz is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (44 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.5% (40 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.1% (80 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.4% (42 residents)
  • Over 65: 9.6% (22 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Cruz?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Cruz is as follows:
  • White: 21% (48 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (3 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 11% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.8% (27 residents)
  • Other: 54.8% (125 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.5% of the population in Santa Cruz.

How many housing units are there in Santa Cruz?

There are 115 housing units in Santa Cruz, reflecting a -0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Santa Cruz has a total of 104 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz has a median household income of $33,750, representing a -2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Santa Cruz?

The employment rate is 97.8% in Santa Cruz, with a workforce of 90 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.8% (70 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.2% (20 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 24.4% (22 residents)
  • Private companies: 60% (54 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.2% (11 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.3% (3 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