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

Total population
89,019
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,482/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
46,608
2.4% year-over-year change

Santa Fe population

How many people live in Santa Fe

Santa Fe is home to 89,019 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Santa Fe locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
89,019
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
43,139
Female
51.5%
45,880
Value Percent YoY change
Male 43,139 48.5% 1.2%
Female 45,880 51.5% 0.6%
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 Fe is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.8% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.8%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
26.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,357 12.8% -1.9%
15 to 24 10,240 11.5% -0.0%
25 to 44 21,690 24.4% 2.8%
45 to 64 22,436 25.2% -0.4%
Over 65 23,296 26.2% 2.3%
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 Fe, 83.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 54.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.4% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 12% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 27.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.5%
Non-citizens
9.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 74,256 83.4% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,694 7.5% 3.7%
Non-citizens 8,069 9.1% 2.8%
Racial breakdown
White
54.9%
Black or African American
1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
27.6%
Other
12%
Value Percent
White 48,868 54.9%
Black or African American 1,211 1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,850 2.1%
Asian 1,703 1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 60 0.1%
Two or more races 24,605 27.6%
Other 10,722 12%

Households in Santa Fe

A peek inside Santa Fe households

Santa Fe has 41,921 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.4% are families, while the remaining 48.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
41,921
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
20,377
Family households
21,544
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 20,377 48.6% 4.9%
Family households 21,544 51.4% 1.2%
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 Fe

The housing landscape of Santa Fe

Santa Fe's housing consists of 46,608 units, with 55.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.3% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
46,608
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 26,002 55.8%
1 unit, attached 4,785 10.3%
2 units 1,485 3.2%
3 or 4 units 2,707 5.8%
5 to 9 units 2,308 5%
10 to 19 units 1,904 4.1%
20 to 49 units 1,526 3.3%
50 or more units 1,815 3.9%
Mobile home 4,070 8.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0%
Homes built since 2020
869
68.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Fe

In Santa Fe, the median construction year is 1986. About 7.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,309 7.1% 4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,772 3.8% 2.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,724 8% -5.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,416 7.3% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,349 13.6% 5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,226 17.6% -0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,136 15.3% -1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,014 17.2% 6.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,793 8.1% 2.6%
Built in 2020 or later 869 1.9% 68.7%
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 Fe occupancy rates

Out of the 41,921 occupied housing units in Santa Fe, 63.6% are owner-occupied, while 36.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
41,921
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,275
Owner occupied
26,646
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,275 36.4% 0.9%
Owner occupied 26,646 63.6% 4.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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 Fe housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Fe come to a median of $1,388 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,463.

Median housing costs per month
$1,388/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 Fe
$1,463/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 Fe

Santa Fe education at a glance

About 25.2% of the population in Santa Fe went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,355 4.5% 4.7%
High school diploma 18,883 25.2% -1.7%
College diploma 14,794 19.8% -4.0%
Associate degree 4,751 6.4% -4.9%
Bachelor's degree 15,712 21% 5.5%
Graduate degree 17,324 23.2% 8.8%
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 Fe

How much people earn in Santa Fe

The average annual household income in Santa Fe was $103,867 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,482, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Fe
$103,867/year
5.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Fe
$73,482/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Santa Fe income by age

In Santa Fe, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,040. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,362 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,142, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,313 in earnings. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,142 25.1%
25 - 44 $75,040 4.7%
45 - 64 $86,362 8.0%
Over 65 $65,313 1.2%
Above poverty level
76,177
Below poverty level
11,226
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 76,177 87.2% 2.1%
Below poverty level 11,226 12.8% -5.7%

Average renter income in Santa Fe

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Santa Fe, their median household income was $49,385 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,385
Rent-to-income ratio
35.5%
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 Santa Fe

Workforce and job types in Santa Fe

The job market in Santa Fe is powered by 44,218 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 17.2% run their own businesses, 49.9% are employed by private companies, and 21.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
44,218
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
37,906
Blue collar
6,312
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,906 85.7% 1.4%
Blue collar 6,312 14.3% 3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
17.2%
Private companies
49.9%
Governmental workers
21.3%
Not for profit companies
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,604 17.2% 5.3%
Private companies 22,079 49.9% -1.6%
Governmental workers 9,404 21.3% 5.6%
Not for profit companies 5,131 11.6% 4.4%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Fe stands at 5.1%, 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 Fe

How people get around in Santa Fe

In Santa Fe, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 33,536 76.8% -0.5%
Taxicab 78 0.2% 23.8%
Bus or trolleybus 442 1% -13.8%
Railroad 37 0.1% 27.6%
Motorcycle 17 0% -5.6%
Bicycle 327 0.8% 1.2%
Walk 1,187 2.7% 12.5%
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 Fe by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87501 16,007 9,166 $79,603 $126,623
87505 32,092 16,646 $78,247 $111,216
87506 16,372 7,543 $96,511 $155,848
87507 51,386 20,716 $70,398 $90,244
87508 18,518 7,455 $101,565 $140,543

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FAQs about Santa Fe demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Fe?

Santa Fe has a total population of 89,019 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Fe?

The gender ratio in Santa Fe is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (43,139 residents)
  • 51.5% females (45,880 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Fe?

The median age in Santa Fe is 46.3.

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

The age distribution in Santa Fe is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.8% (11,357 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (10,240 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (21,690 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (22,436 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.2% (23,296 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Fe?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Fe is as follows:
  • White: 54.9% (48,868 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.4% (1,211 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (1,850 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (1,703 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (60 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.6% (24,605 residents)
  • Other: 12% (10,722 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.4% of the population in Santa Fe.

How many housing units are there in Santa Fe?

There are 46,608 housing units in Santa Fe, reflecting a +2.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Santa Fe has a total of 41,921 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Fe?

Santa Fe has a median household income of $73,482, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.9% in Santa Fe, with a workforce of 44,218 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.7% (37,906 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.3% (6,312 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.2% (7,604 residents)
  • Private companies: 49.9% (22,079 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.3% (9,404 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.6% (5,131 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