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

Rio Arriba County, NM has rental prices ranging from $707/month to $1,334/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $711/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,901/year, spending $711/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Rio Arriba County Compares

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

The Rio Arriba County, NM area has a population of about 40,165 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 Rio Arriba 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 Rio Arriba County, NM without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,440. The local median household income of $53,901 exceeds that threshold by $25,461, making Rio Arriba County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Rio Arriba County, NM has an unemployment rate of 5.5%, 1.6 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 Rio Arriba County, NM Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Rio Arriba County?

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

Living in Rio Arriba County

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