South Valley, NM demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,120
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,224/yr
14.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,132
0.1% year-over-year change

South Valley population

How many people live in South Valley

South Valley is home to 37,120 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of South Valley locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
37,120
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
18,585
Female
49.9%
18,535
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,585 50.1% -0.7%
Female 18,535 49.9% 3.6%
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 South Valley is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 14% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
14%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,248 16.8% -9.2%
15 to 24 5,207 14% 14.0%
25 to 44 8,699 23.4% -0.8%
45 to 64 9,845 26.5% 6.2%
Over 65 7,121 19.2% 0.1%
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 South Valley, 82.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 31.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 2.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 23% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 42.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.9%
Non-citizens
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 30,613 82.5% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,927 7.9% 6.0%
Non-citizens 3,580 9.6% 19.1%
Racial breakdown
White
31.1%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.4%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
42.2%
Other
23%
Value Percent
White 11,560 31.1%
Black or African American 334 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 885 2.4%
Asian 115 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 35 0.1%
Two or more races 15,672 42.2%
Other 8,519 23%

Households in South Valley

A peek inside South Valley households

South Valley has 13,186 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.7% are families, while the remaining 33.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,186
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,387
Family households
8,799
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,387 33.3% -3.2%
Family households 8,799 66.7% 2.8%
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 South Valley

The housing landscape of South Valley

South Valley's housing consists of 14,132 units, with 73.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,132
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,432 73.8%
1 unit, attached 433 3.1%
2 units 346 2.4%
3 or 4 units 234 1.7%
5 to 9 units 132 0.9%
10 to 19 units 171 1.2%
20 to 49 units 93 0.7%
50 or more units 164 1.2%
Mobile home 2,127 15%
Homes built since 2020
157
72.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Valley

In South Valley, the median construction year is 1970. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,326 9.4% 15.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,269 9% -3.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,343 16.6% -0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,151 15.2% -19.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,217 15.7% 11.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,309 9.3% -10.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,999 14.2% 11.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 885 6.3% -0.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 476 3.4% 20.5%
Built in 2020 or later 157 1.1% 72.5%
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.

South Valley occupancy rates

Out of the 13,186 occupied housing units in South Valley, 74.4% are owner-occupied, while 25.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,186
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,379
Owner occupied
9,807
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,379 25.6% 6.8%
Owner occupied 9,807 74.4% -1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
6.7%
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.

South Valley housing costs

Housing costs in South Valley come to a median of $943 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $954.

Median housing costs per month
$943/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 South Valley
$954/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 South Valley

South Valley education at a glance

About 48.3% of the population in South Valley went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 8.2% 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 2,487 8.4% 17.4%
High school diploma 14,234 48.3% 0.6%
College diploma 6,582 22.3% 6.6%
Associate degree 2,082 7.1% -9.6%
Bachelor's degree 2,424 8.2% 1.8%
Graduate degree 1,672 5.7% 7.2%
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 South Valley

How much people earn in South Valley

The average annual household income in South Valley was $73,838 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,224, reflecting a +14% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Valley
$73,838/year
10.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Valley
$58,224/year
14.0% year-over-year change

South Valley income by age

In South Valley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,234. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,231 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,321, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,500 in earnings. Overall, 81.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,321 14.6%
25 - 44 $64,234 14.5%
45 - 64 $64,231 5.3%
Over 65 $44,500 9.5%
Above poverty level
29,688
Below poverty level
6,702
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,688 81.6% 2.2%
Below poverty level 6,702 18.4% -2.7%

Average renter income in South Valley

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Valley, their median household income was $28,933 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,933
Rent-to-income ratio
39.6%
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 South Valley

Workforce and job types in South Valley

The job market in South Valley is powered by 15,826 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 64.1% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,826
4.0% year-over-year change
White collar
10,609
Blue collar
5,217
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,609 67% 8.8%
Blue collar 5,217 33% -4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
64.1%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,839 11.6% 16.2%
Private companies 10,140 64.1% 2.6%
Governmental workers 2,693 17% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 1,154 7.3% 8.5%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-20.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Valley stands at 4.3%, 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 South Valley

How people get around in South Valley

Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 13,991 89.6% 2.3%
Taxicab 14 0.1% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.1% -59.5%
Motorcycle 9 0.1% 80.0%
Bicycle 38 0.2% -61.6%
Walk 168 1.1% 20.9%
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.

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FAQs about South Valley demographics 

What is the total population of South Valley?

South Valley has a total population of 37,120 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 South Valley?

The gender ratio in South Valley is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (18,585 residents)
  • 49.9% females (18,535 residents)

What is the median age in South Valley?

The median age in South Valley is 41.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Valley?

The age distribution in South Valley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (6,248 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14% (5,207 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (8,699 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (9,845 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (7,121 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Valley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Valley is as follows:
  • White: 31.1% (11,560 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (334 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.4% (885 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (115 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (35 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 42.2% (15,672 residents)
  • Other: 23% (8,519 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.5% of the population in South Valley.

How many housing units are there in South Valley?

There are 14,132 housing units in South Valley, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South Valley has a total of 13,186 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Valley?

South Valley has a median household income of $58,224, representing a +14.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Valley?

The employment rate is 95.7% in South Valley, with a workforce of 15,826 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67% (10,609 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33% (5,217 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (1,839 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.1% (10,140 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (2,693 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (1,154 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