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

Total population
11,500
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,600/yr
9.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,200
0.8% year-over-year change

Sierra County population

How many people live in Sierra County

Sierra County is home to 11,500 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Sierra County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
11,500
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
5,687
Female
50.6%
5,813
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,687 49.4% -0.1%
Female 5,813 50.6% -0.1%
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 Sierra County is 58, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.7% are children under 15, then 7.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.7% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 38.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
57.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.7%
15 to 24
7.8%
25 to 44
17.7%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
38.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,350 11.7% -4.5%
15 to 24 891 7.8% -0.6%
25 to 44 2,040 17.7% -1.1%
45 to 64 2,754 24% -4.6%
Over 65 4,465 38.8% 5.0%
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 Sierra County, 91.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 22.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,540 91.6% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 288 2.5% 2.1%
Non-citizens 672 5.8% -15.0%
Racial breakdown
White
69.3%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
22.2%
Other
7.4%
Value Percent
White 7,971 69.3%
Black or African American 25 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 87 0.8%
Asian 18 0.2%
Two or more races 2,554 22.2%
Other 845 7.4%

Households in Sierra County

A peek inside Sierra County households

Sierra County has 5,440 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49% are families, while the remaining 51% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,440
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,775
Family households
2,665
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,775 51% 5.3%
Family households 2,665 49% -4.2%
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 Sierra County

The housing landscape of Sierra County

Sierra County's housing consists of 8,200 units, with 47% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 41.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,200
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,852 47%
1 unit, attached 58 0.7%
2 units 118 1.4%
3 or 4 units 255 3.1%
5 to 9 units 94 1.2%
10 to 19 units 139 1.7%
20 to 49 units 9 0.1%
50 or more units 103 1.3%
Mobile home 3,394 41.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 178 2.2%
Homes built since 2020
79
259.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sierra County

In Sierra County, the median construction year is 1983. About 7.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 610 7.4% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 319 3.9% -14.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 625 7.6% 21.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 793 9.7% -12.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,215 14.8% -5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,538 18.8% 6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,543 18.8% 1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,077 13.1% -3.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 401 4.9% 21.1%
Built in 2020 or later 79 1% 259.1%
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.

Sierra County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,440 occupied housing units in Sierra County, 71.8% are owner-occupied, while 28.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,440
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,534
Owner occupied
3,906
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,534 28.2% -4.9%
Owner occupied 3,906 71.8% 2.6%
Unoccupied housing units
33.7%
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.

Sierra County housing costs

Housing costs in Sierra County come to a median of $499 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $729.

Median housing costs per month
$499/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 Sierra County
$729/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 Sierra County

Sierra County education at a glance

About 40% of the population in Sierra County went to high school, while 28.1% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 10.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 363 3.7% -5.0%
High school diploma 3,883 40% -7.3%
College diploma 2,727 28.1% 11.0%
Associate degree 1,156 11.9% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 997 10.3% 8.1%
Graduate degree 579 6% -5.2%
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 Sierra County

How much people earn in Sierra County

The average annual household income in Sierra County was $54,369 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $41,600, reflecting a +9.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sierra County
$54,369/year
7.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sierra County
$41,600/year
9.9% year-over-year change

Sierra County income by age

In Sierra County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,557. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $46,633 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $28,462, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,812 in earnings. Overall, 78.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $28,462 8.8%
25 - 44 $51,557 5.3%
45 - 64 $46,633 12.8%
Over 65 $39,812 13.1%
Above poverty level
8,849
Below poverty level
2,391
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,849 78.7% 5.1%
Below poverty level 2,391 21.3% -14.3%

Employment in Sierra County

Workforce and job types in Sierra County

The job market in Sierra County is powered by 3,501 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, 21.7% run their own businesses, 43.6% are employed by private companies, and 31.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,501
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
2,999
Blue collar
502
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,999 85.7% 3.6%
Blue collar 502 14.3% -11.0%
Employer type
Self employees
21.7%
Private companies
43.6%
Governmental workers
31.8%
Not for profit companies
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 759 21.7% 20.9%
Private companies 1,527 43.6% -3.5%
Governmental workers 1,113 31.8% -1.4%
Not for profit companies 102 2.9% -15.0%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
18.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sierra County stands at 4.2%, 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 Sierra County

How people get around in Sierra County

In Sierra County, the average commute time is 15 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
15 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,871 82.3% 0.9%
Walk 100 2.9% -25.9%
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 Sierra County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87901 6,378 2,868 $34,242 $50,309
87930 718 229 $38,085 $50,574
87931 703 406 $0 $49,504
87935 2,094 1,107 $51,033 $61,682
87939 206 113 $0 $85,550
87942 1,005 456 $42,308 $55,690
87943 191 112 $0 $70,110
88042 205 149 $75,137 $57,740

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FAQs about Sierra County demographics 

What is the total population of Sierra County?

Sierra County has a total population of 11,500 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sierra County?

The gender ratio in Sierra County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (5,687 residents)
  • 50.6% females (5,813 residents)

What is the median age in Sierra County?

The median age in Sierra County is 57.6.

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

The age distribution in Sierra County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.7% (1,350 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.8% (891 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.7% (2,040 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (2,754 residents)
  • Over 65: 38.8% (4,465 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sierra County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sierra County is as follows:
  • White: 69.3% (7,971 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (25 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (87 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (18 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.2% (2,554 residents)
  • Other: 7.4% (845 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.6% of the population in Sierra County.

How many housing units are there in Sierra County?

There are 8,200 housing units in Sierra County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sierra County has a total of 5,440 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sierra County?

Sierra County has a median household income of $41,600, representing a +9.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Sierra County, with a workforce of 3,501 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.7% (2,999 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.3% (502 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 21.7% (759 residents)
  • Private companies: 43.6% (1,527 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 31.8% (1,113 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.9% (102 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