Average Rent in Harding County, NM↑ Rents rising 6.4% YoY🔻 Cheapest in NM
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 748
Market Overview
Harding County, NM has rental prices ranging from $678/month to $1,549/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $764/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $41,250/year, spending $764/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Harding County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Harding County ranks #30 most expensive of the 30 cities tracked in New Mexico — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.
The Harding County Rental Market
The Harding County, NM area has a population of about 748 and 22% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Harding County, NM have risen by $56/month (6.4%) over the past year, from $877 to $933. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Harding County, NM without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,560. The local median household income of $41,250 exceeds that threshold by $10,690, making Harding County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Harding County, NM has an unemployment rate of 4.7%, 0.8 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Harding County, NM Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in NMlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque | $913 | $1,084 | $1,331 | $1,865 | — |
| Las Cruces | $741 | $940 | $1,041 | $1,447 | — |
| Santa Fe | $1,235 | $1,368 | $1,627 | $2,057 | — |
| Farmington | $841 | $855 | $1,034 | $1,449 | — |
| Lea County | $806 | $862 | $1,131 | $1,397 | — |
| McKinley County | $652 | $799 | $951 | $1,169 | — |
Rent or Buy in Harding County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Harding County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Harding County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Harding CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NMSee how Harding County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Harding CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NM Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections