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

Total population
15,490
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,842/yr
25.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,293
0.8% year-over-year change

Torrance County population

How many people live in Torrance County

Torrance County is home to 15,490 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Torrance County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
15,490
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
7,896
Female
49%
7,594
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,896 51% 2.1%
Female 7,594 49% 0.5%
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 Torrance County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
22.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,515 16.2% 0.7%
15 to 24 1,820 11.8% -4.3%
25 to 44 3,747 24.2% 2.1%
45 to 64 3,920 25.3% 1.9%
Over 65 3,488 22.5% 3.3%
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 Torrance County, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.5% of locals are Caucasian, 2.5% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 20.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,819 95.7% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 309 2% -25.5%
Non-citizens 362 2.3% -16.4%
Racial breakdown
White
61.5%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
20.3%
Other
12.4%
Value Percent
White 9,521 61.5%
Black or African American 384 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 488 3.2%
Asian 37 0.2%
Two or more races 3,145 20.3%
Other 1,915 12.4%

Households in Torrance County

A peek inside Torrance County households

Torrance County has 6,052 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.5% are families, while the remaining 37.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,052
4.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,272
Family households
3,780
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,272 37.5% 6.5%
Family households 3,780 62.5% 3.8%
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 Torrance County

The housing landscape of Torrance County

Torrance County's housing consists of 7,293 units, with 50.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.6% 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 45.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,293
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,669 50.3%
1 unit, attached 114 1.6%
2 units 22 0.3%
3 or 4 units 22 0.3%
5 to 9 units 14 0.2%
20 to 49 units 111 1.5%
Mobile home 3,324 45.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 17 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
36
33.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Torrance County

In Torrance County, the median construction year is 1987. About 7.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 533 7.3% 5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 211 2.9% -15.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 383 5.2% 56.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 266 3.6% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 842 11.6% -21.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,918 26.3% -5.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,070 28.4% 8.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 659 9% 10.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 375 5.1% 15.0%
Built in 2020 or later 36 0.5% 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.

Torrance County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,052 occupied housing units in Torrance County, 81.7% are owner-occupied, while 18.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,052
4.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,105
Owner occupied
4,947
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,105 18.3% 4.3%
Owner occupied 4,947 81.7% 4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
17.0%
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.

Torrance County housing costs

Housing costs in Torrance County come to a median of $714 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $872.

Median housing costs per month
$714/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 Torrance County
$872/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 Torrance County

Torrance County education at a glance

About 44.1% of the population in Torrance County went to high school, while 28.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 10.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 595 4.8% -1.6%
High school diploma 5,446 44.1% 3.1%
College diploma 3,543 28.7% -1.4%
Associate degree 914 7.4% -9.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,330 10.8% 27.3%
Graduate degree 528 4.3% -11.8%
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 Torrance County

How much people earn in Torrance County

The average annual household income in Torrance County was $76,823 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +22.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,842, reflecting a +25.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Torrance County
$76,823/year
22.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Torrance County
$57,842/year
25.1% year-over-year change

Torrance County income by age

In Torrance County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,313. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,204 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $198,102, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,691 in earnings. Overall, 81.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $198,102 N/A
25 - 44 $65,313 8.9%
45 - 64 $66,204 49.3%
Over 65 $46,691 12.4%
Above poverty level
12,433
Below poverty level
2,779
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,433 81.7% 3.5%
Below poverty level 2,779 18.3% -10.3%

Employment in Torrance County

Workforce and job types in Torrance County

The job market in Torrance County is powered by 6,244 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 60.3% are employed by private companies, and 22.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,244
14.2% year-over-year change
White collar
4,537
Blue collar
1,707
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,537 72.7% 10.7%
Blue collar 1,707 27.3% 24.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
60.3%
Governmental workers
22.3%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 637 10.2% -2.3%
Private companies 3,764 60.3% 19.2%
Governmental workers 1,391 22.3% 6.2%
Not for profit companies 452 7.2% 29.9%
Unemployment rate
9.0%
-14.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Torrance County stands at 9%, 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 Torrance County

How people get around in Torrance County

In Torrance County, the average commute time is 37 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
37 min
1.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,443 87.8% 22.2%
Motorcycle 57 0.9% 26.7%
Bicycle 57 0.9% 35.7%
Walk 57 0.9% -26.0%
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 Torrance County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
88301 1,197 594 $43,900 $64,865
88318 321 166 $73,125 $74,161
87015 14,443 5,945 $79,904 $93,501
87016 2,421 1,066 $55,296 $66,443
87032 73 73 $0 $0
87035 7,539 2,627 $44,938 $82,794
87036 1,927 735 $47,132 $69,843
87061 291 160 $44,277 $51,089
87063 265 119 $72,721 $68,245

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FAQs about Torrance County demographics 

What is the total population of Torrance County?

Torrance County has a total population of 15,490 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 Torrance County?

The gender ratio in Torrance County is as follows:
  • 51% males (7,896 residents)
  • 49% females (7,594 residents)

What is the median age in Torrance County?

The median age in Torrance County is 43.3.

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

The age distribution in Torrance County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (2,515 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (1,820 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (3,747 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (3,920 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.5% (3,488 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Torrance County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Torrance County is as follows:
  • White: 61.5% (9,521 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (384 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.2% (488 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (37 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 20.3% (3,145 residents)
  • Other: 12.4% (1,915 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Torrance County.

How many housing units are there in Torrance County?

There are 7,293 housing units in Torrance 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 Torrance County and what is the average household size?

Torrance County has a total of 6,052 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Torrance County?

Torrance County has a median household income of $57,842, representing a +25.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91% in Torrance County, with a workforce of 6,244 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.7% (4,537 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.3% (1,707 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (637 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.3% (3,764 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.3% (1,391 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (452 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