Average Rent in Otero County, NM↑ Rents rising 6.4% YoY🔻 Cheapest in NM

Otero County, NM has rental prices ranging from $640/month to $1,567/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $761/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $52,717/year, spending $761/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Otero County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Otero 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 Otero County Rental Market

The Otero County, NM area has a population of about 68,235 and 35% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Otero 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 Otero County, NM without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,440. The local median household income of $52,717 exceeds that threshold by $22,277, making Otero County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Otero County, NM has an unemployment rate of 5.9%, 2.0 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.

Is Otero County, NM Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Otero County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Otero County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.