Average Rent in McKinley County, NM↑ Rents rising 8.4% YoY

McKinley County, NM has rental prices ranging from $652/month to $1,261/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $799/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $44,496/year, spending $799/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How McKinley County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $951/month, McKinley County ranks #11 most expensive of the 30 cities tracked in New Mexico — pricier than 56% of all US cities in our data.

The McKinley County Rental Market

The McKinley County, NM area has a population of about 71,172 and 31% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in McKinley County, NM have risen by $74/month (8.4%) over the past year, from $877 to $951. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in McKinley County, NM without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,960. The local median household income of $44,496 exceeds that threshold by $12,536, making McKinley County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

McKinley County, NM has an unemployment rate of 8.1%, 4.2 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 McKinley County, NM Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in McKinley County?

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

Living in McKinley County

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