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

Total population
78,458
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,933/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
30,756
1.2% year-over-year change

Valencia County population

How many people live in Valencia County

Valencia County is home to 78,458 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Valencia County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
78,458
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
39,289
Female
49.9%
39,169
Value Percent YoY change
Male 39,289 50.1% 1.9%
Female 39,169 49.9% 0.9%
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 Valencia County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.6% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.6%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
18.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,568 18.6% 1.1%
15 to 24 9,891 12.6% 0.3%
25 to 44 19,846 25.3% 1.9%
45 to 64 19,457 24.8% 0.8%
Over 65 14,696 18.7% 2.5%
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 Valencia County, 89.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. Another 4.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 12.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 32.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 70,514 89.9% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,074 5.2% 11.4%
Non-citizens 3,870 4.9% 13.4%
Racial breakdown
White
48.4%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.6%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
32.5%
Other
12.5%
Value Percent
White 37,987 48.4%
Black or African American 850 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,569 4.6%
Asian 656 0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 80 0.1%
Two or more races 25,519 32.5%
Other 9,797 12.5%

Households in Valencia County

A peek inside Valencia County households

Valencia County has 27,583 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.7% are families, while the remaining 31.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
27,583
3.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
8,624
Family households
18,959
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,624 31.3% 1.8%
Family households 18,959 68.7% 3.5%
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 Valencia County

The housing landscape of Valencia County

Valencia County's housing consists of 30,756 units, with 63% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 30.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
30,756
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,372 63%
1 unit, attached 577 1.9%
2 units 249 0.8%
3 or 4 units 350 1.1%
5 to 9 units 72 0.2%
10 to 19 units 281 0.9%
20 to 49 units 224 0.7%
50 or more units 231 0.8%
Mobile home 9,286 30.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 114 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
755
100.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Valencia County

In Valencia County, the median construction year is 1989. About 3.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,085 3.5% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 392 1.3% 9.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 747 2.4% -18.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,860 6% -6.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,580 18.1% 0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,016 19.6% 3.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,897 22.4% -5.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,367 17.4% 0.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,057 6.7% 27.1%
Built in 2020 or later 755 2.4% 100.3%
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.

Valencia County occupancy rates

Out of the 27,583 occupied housing units in Valencia County, 83.2% are owner-occupied, while 16.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
27,583
3.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,639
Owner occupied
22,944
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,639 16.8% -3.5%
Owner occupied 22,944 83.2% 4.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Valencia County housing costs

Housing costs in Valencia County come to a median of $910 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,015.

Median housing costs per month
$910/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 Valencia County
$1,015/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 Valencia County

Valencia County education at a glance

About 42% of the population in Valencia County went to high school, while 23.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 11.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,369 5.6% 9.2%
High school diploma 25,461 42% 1.3%
College diploma 14,395 23.7% 1.5%
Associate degree 5,940 9.8% -0.2%
Bachelor's degree 6,835 11.3% 2.6%
Graduate degree 4,624 7.6% -0.9%
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 Valencia County

How much people earn in Valencia County

The average annual household income in Valencia County was $79,649 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 $58,933, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Valencia County
$79,649/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Valencia County
$58,933/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Valencia County income by age

In Valencia County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,269. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,562 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,594, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,919 in earnings. Overall, 82% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,594 -0.1%
25 - 44 $65,269 2.4%
45 - 64 $69,562 -1.5%
Over 65 $50,919 5.6%
Above poverty level
61,948
Below poverty level
13,563
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 61,948 82% 1.6%
Below poverty level 13,563 18% 0.1%

Employment in Valencia County

Workforce and job types in Valencia County

The job market in Valencia County is powered by 30,412 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 58.5% are employed by private companies, and 25.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
30,412
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
22,234
Blue collar
8,178
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 22,234 73.1% -1.4%
Blue collar 8,178 26.9% 7.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
58.5%
Governmental workers
25.1%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,995 9.8% 0.6%
Private companies 17,781 58.5% 4.2%
Governmental workers 7,631 25.1% -7.7%
Not for profit companies 2,005 6.6% 8.7%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Valencia County stands at 7%, 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 Valencia County

How people get around in Valencia County

In Valencia County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86% 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
30 min
4.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 25,802 86% -1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 70 0.2% -20.4%
Railroad 16 0% -67.3%
Ferryboat 21 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 50 0.2% 21.9%
Walk 267 0.9% -10.4%
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 Valencia County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
87002 21,265 7,771 $51,961 $70,163
87023 306 162 $0 $53,104
87026 1,567 417 $84,750 $79,003
87031 47,514 15,957 $60,902 $80,643
87042 3,410 1,427 $73,057 $104,865
87068 5,432 2,067 $79,602 $94,865

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FAQs about Valencia County demographics 

What is the total population of Valencia County?

Valencia County has a total population of 78,458 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 Valencia County?

The gender ratio in Valencia County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (39,289 residents)
  • 49.9% females (39,169 residents)

What is the median age in Valencia County?

The median age in Valencia County is 39.4.

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

The age distribution in Valencia County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.6% (14,568 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (9,891 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (19,846 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (19,457 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.7% (14,696 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Valencia County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Valencia County is as follows:
  • White: 48.4% (37,987 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (850 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.6% (3,569 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (656 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (80 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 32.5% (25,519 residents)
  • Other: 12.5% (9,797 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.9% of the population in Valencia County.

How many housing units are there in Valencia County?

There are 30,756 housing units in Valencia County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Valencia County has a total of 27,583 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Valencia County?

Valencia County has a median household income of $58,933, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Valencia County, with a workforce of 30,412 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.1% (22,234 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.9% (8,178 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (2,995 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.5% (17,781 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.1% (7,631 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (2,005 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