Average Rent in Sierra County, NM↑ Rents rising 6.4% YoY🔻 Cheapest in NM
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 11,511
Market Overview
Sierra County, NM has rental prices ranging from $640/month to $1,549/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 $37,840/year, spending $711/month on a 1-bedroom represents 23% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Sierra County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Sierra 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 Sierra County Rental Market
The Sierra County, NM area has a population of about 11,511 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Sierra 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 Sierra 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 $37,840 exceeds that threshold by $9,400, making Sierra County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Sierra County, NM has an unemployment rate of 6.4%, 2.5 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Sierra County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Sierra County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Sierra CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NMSee how Sierra County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Sierra CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NM Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections