Average Rent in Taos County, NM↑ Rents rising 1.9% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 34,516
Market Overview
Taos County, NM has rental prices ranging from $808/month to $1,797/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $934/month — 33% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,908/year, spending $934/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
The Taos County Rental Market
The Taos County, NM area has a population of about 34,516 and 21% 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 Taos County, NM have risen by $20/month (1.9%) over the past year, from $1,050 to $1,070. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Taos County, NM without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $37,360. The local median household income of $58,908 exceeds that threshold by $21,548, making Taos County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Taos County, NM has an unemployment rate of 6.0%, 2.1 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 Taos 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 Taos County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Taos County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Taos 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 Taos CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NMSee how Taos County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Taos CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NM Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections