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

Total population
34,543
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,950/yr
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,250
0.8% year-over-year change

Taos County population

How many people live in Taos County

Taos County is home to 34,543 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Taos County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
34,543
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
16,880
Female
51.1%
17,663
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,880 48.9% -0.2%
Female 17,663 51.1% 0.4%
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 Taos County is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.6% are children under 15, then 8.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.8% of the population, while another 27.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 30.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
52.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.6%
15 to 24
8.7%
25 to 44
20.8%
45 to 64
27.5%
Over 65
30.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,342 12.6% -3.2%
15 to 24 3,000 8.7% -10.9%
25 to 44 7,171 20.8% 2.6%
45 to 64 9,491 27.5% 0.7%
Over 65 10,539 30.5% 2.9%
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 Taos County, 92.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55.7% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 22.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
3.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,070 92.8% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,310 3.8% 12.6%
Non-citizens 1,163 3.4% -13.1%
Racial breakdown
White
55.7%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
7%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
22.5%
Other
13.6%
Value Percent
White 19,242 55.7%
Black or African American 122 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,410 7%
Asian 259 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0%
Two or more races 7,786 22.5%
Other 4,714 13.6%

Households in Taos County

A peek inside Taos County households

Taos County has 15,549 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.4% are families, while the remaining 43.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,549
7.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,781
Family households
8,768
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,781 43.6% -1.5%
Family households 8,768 56.4% 15.8%
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 Taos County

The housing landscape of Taos County

Taos County's housing consists of 21,250 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 13.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,250
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,736 69.4%
1 unit, attached 673 3.2%
2 units 572 2.7%
3 or 4 units 689 3.2%
5 to 9 units 747 3.5%
10 to 19 units 382 1.8%
20 to 49 units 285 1.3%
50 or more units 105 0.5%
Mobile home 2,904 13.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 157 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
235
2,837.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Taos County

In Taos County, the median construction year is 1985. About 8.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% 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 1,715 8.1% -9.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 778 3.7% -13.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,214 5.7% -0.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,551 7.3% -5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,553 16.7% -2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,655 17.2% -2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,587 21.6% 5.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,204 15.1% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 758 3.6% 45.5%
Built in 2020 or later 235 1.1% 2,837.5%
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.

Taos County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,549 occupied housing units in Taos County, 77.6% are owner-occupied, while 22.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 26.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,549
7.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,482
Owner occupied
12,067
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,482 22.4% 13.8%
Owner occupied 12,067 77.6% 5.9%
Unoccupied housing units
26.8%
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.

Taos County housing costs

Housing costs in Taos County come to a median of $745 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,034.

Median housing costs per month
$745/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 Taos County
$1,034/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 Taos County

Taos County education at a glance

About 31.9% of the population in Taos County went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 20.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 814 2.8% 14.8%
High school diploma 9,287 31.9% -1.0%
College diploma 6,071 20.8% -7.3%
Associate degree 2,457 8.4% 3.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,092 20.9% 13.5%
Graduate degree 4,422 15.2% -3.8%
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 Taos County

How much people earn in Taos County

The average annual household income in Taos County was $87,060 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,950, reflecting a +0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Taos County
$87,060/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Taos County
$58,950/year
0.1% year-over-year change

Taos County income by age

In Taos County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,553. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,384 overall. Overall, 84.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,553 16.6%
45 - 64 $69,384 -4.1%
Over 65 $54,568 -2.4%
Above poverty level
28,987
Below poverty level
5,236
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,987 84.7% -1.2%
Below poverty level 5,236 15.3% 6.0%

Employment in Taos County

Workforce and job types in Taos County

The job market in Taos County is powered by 15,194 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, 17.9% run their own businesses, 52.1% are employed by private companies, and 19.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,194
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
11,827
Blue collar
3,367
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 11,827 77.8% 1.1%
Blue collar 3,367 22.2% 10.3%
Employer type
Self employees
17.9%
Private companies
52.1%
Governmental workers
19.5%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,722 17.9% 2.0%
Private companies 7,916 52.1% 4.4%
Governmental workers 2,961 19.5% 1.1%
Not for profit companies 1,595 10.5% 1.3%
Unemployment rate
7.6%
60.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Taos County stands at 7.6%, 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 Taos County

How people get around in Taos County

In Taos County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
8.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,414 76.3% 0.4%
Taxicab 2 0% -71.4%
Bus or trolleybus 67 0.4% -2.9%
Bicycle 64 0.4% 77.8%
Walk 373 2.5% -3.1%
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 Taos County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87512 372 144 $0 $0
87513 811 569 $0 $65,582
87514 1,589 863 $71,556 $86,945
87517 388 207 $0 $71,457
87519 798 217 $0 $88,371
87521 1,261 375 $39,718 $75,793
87524 450 141 $0 $0
87525 65 32 $76,875 $64,438
87529 4,538 2,380 $61,618 $80,591
87531 144 68 $0 $0

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Taos County demographics 

What is the total population of Taos County?

Taos County has a total population of 34,543 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 Taos County?

The gender ratio in Taos County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (16,880 residents)
  • 51.1% females (17,663 residents)

What is the median age in Taos County?

The median age in Taos County is 52.6.

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

The age distribution in Taos County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.6% (4,342 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.7% (3,000 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.8% (7,171 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.5% (9,491 residents)
  • Over 65: 30.5% (10,539 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Taos County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Taos County is as follows:
  • White: 55.7% (19,242 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (122 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 7% (2,410 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (259 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 22.5% (7,786 residents)
  • Other: 13.6% (4,714 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.8% of the population in Taos County.

How many housing units are there in Taos County?

There are 21,250 housing units in Taos 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 Taos County and what is the average household size?

Taos County has a total of 15,549 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Taos County?

Taos County has a median household income of $58,950, representing a +0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.4% in Taos County, with a workforce of 15,194 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.8% (11,827 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.2% (3,367 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 17.9% (2,722 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.1% (7,916 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.5% (2,961 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (1,595 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