countyscore
59
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 88.7Property Tax 77.2

County Report Card

About Luna County, New Mexico

A Strong National Standout

Luna County earns a 59.0 composite score, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a county that balances affordability with public safety better than many peers across the country.

Outperforming the New Mexico Average

With its 59.0 score, Luna County ranks significantly higher than the state average of 49.1. It stands as a high-performing option within New Mexico for residents seeking a higher quality of life index.

Safety and Savings Lead the Way

The county boasts an exceptional safety score of 97.5 and a cost score of 88.7. Residents benefit from highly affordable housing, with a median gross rent of just $685 per month.

Economic and Healthcare Hurdles

Luna County faces significant challenges in income and health, with scores of 2.0 and 17.6 respectively. The median household income of $37,917 is substantially lower than national averages, limiting local economic mobility.

Ideal for Retirees on a Budget

This county is a premier choice for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low housing costs and personal safety. It suits those with independent wealth who are less dependent on the local labor market.

2040608010077.288.797.517.623.1248.423.943.1Tax77.2Cost88.7Safety97.5Health17.6Schools23.1Income2Risk48.4Water23.9Weather43.159/100
This county
National avg
3 above average5 below average

Luna County DNA

Foverall

How Luna County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Luna County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (97.5/100) but notably weak in Income (2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
77.2+25.200000000000003
Cost
88.7+40.7
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
17.6-32.4
Schools
23.1-30.9
Income
2-49
Risk
48.4
Water
23.9-34.1
Weather
43.1-12.899999999999999
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$112,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$685/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$112,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$27,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $37,917/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

27.5

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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61.5
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Deep Dives

Luna County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Luna County

via TaxByCounty

Luna County taxes rank low nationally

Luna County's effective tax rate of 0.576% sits well below the national median property tax of $2,690 on a $281,900 home. At this rate, Luna homeowners pay roughly $1,622 annually on a median-valued home—less than 61% of what the typical American household pays. This places Luna in the bottom third of counties nationwide for tax burden.

Below-average taxes for New Mexico

Luna County's 0.576% rate slightly undercuts New Mexico's state average of 0.595%, positioning it as a moderate-tax county within the state. The median tax bill of $648 is about 38% lower than the state median of $1,043, reflecting both the lower effective rate and Luna's modest median home values.

Luna compares favorably to peers

Luna County's 0.576% rate edges out Mora County (0.535%) but falls between Otero (0.563%) and Quay (0.617%). Among this cluster of rural counties, Luna's tax burden remains moderate and affordable, especially for homeowners with modest incomes.

Median Luna home: $648 annual tax

A home worth $112,500—Luna's median value—generates approximately $648 in annual property taxes at the current rate. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $697 after insurance and fees, while those owning outright pay around $588, making Luna one of the most accessible counties in the state for housing costs.

Appeal your assessment if overvalued

Many New Mexico homeowners discover their properties are assessed above market value, triggering excessive tax bills. If your home's assessed value seems inflated compared to recent sales nearby, filing an appeal with Luna County's assessor's office could reduce your burden at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Luna County

via CostByCounty

Luna County rents strain tight budgets

Luna County residents spend 21.7% of their income on rent, compared to a national average closer to 28%, but earn just $37,917 annually—half the national median of $74,755. While the rent-to-income ratio looks better than the U.S. average, residents' lower incomes mean housing costs still consume a meaningful share of stretched household budgets.

Above average housing pressure statewide

Luna County's 21.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks above New Mexico's 19.4% state average, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. At $685 monthly rent, Luna County is notably below the state median of $876, yet residents' lower incomes push the affordability burden higher.

Comparable to rural New Mexico peers

Luna County's $685 rent aligns closely with Quay County ($752) and Mora County ($785), making it one of the cheapest rental markets in rural New Mexico. However, McKinley County offers slightly higher rents ($810) with lower homeownership costs, presenting a trade-off for renters versus buyers.

Renters stretch further than buyers

Luna County renters pay $685 monthly while homeowners spend $560—a rare case where ownership costs less than renting. With median household income at $37,917 annually, renters dedicate 21.7% of gross income to housing, while homeowners at the median spend roughly 17.7% on mortgages.

Affordable rent, but consider income

Luna County offers some of New Mexico's cheapest rents, making it attractive for remote workers or retirees with external income sources. Before relocating, compare your income expectations with the $37,917 county median to ensure your housing costs won't outpace local wage opportunities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Luna County

via IncomeByCounty

Luna lags far behind national earnings

Luna County's median household income of $37,917 sits roughly 49% below the national median of $74,755, placing it among the lowest-earning counties nationwide. This gap reflects Luna's economic challenges and limited high-wage employment opportunities compared to more prosperous U.S. regions.

Lowest earners in New Mexico

Luna County ranks last among New Mexico's 33 counties with a median household income well below the state average of $55,469—a gap of $17,552 per household. The county's per capita income of $21,871 also trails the state average of $32,602 by 33%.

Struggling alongside regional peers

Luna's $37,917 median income trails most neighboring counties, though it closely resembles Quay County ($43,698) and McKinley County ($44,496), both similarly economically distressed. Rio Arriba ($53,901) and San Juan ($53,020) counties nearby demonstrate what stronger regional earning potential looks like.

Rent remains affordable despite low wages

Luna County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.7% suggests housing costs are manageable relative to earnings, staying close to the 20% affordability benchmark. However, with median income so far below living costs elsewhere in America, Luna households face significant affordability pressures across other necessities.

Build financial stability from where you are

Luna County residents can leverage lower housing costs to prioritize savings and emergency funds, crucial steps when household income is constrained. Consider exploring local workforce development programs, skilled trades training, and remote work opportunities to supplement household earnings and build long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Luna County

via CrimeByCounty

Luna County Reports No Crime in 2022

Luna County achieved a perfect safety score of 100.0, reporting 0.0 crimes per 100K. This is an exceptional departure from the national average of 2,385.5.

A Perfect Safety Score for the Year

At 100.0, Luna’s safety score is the highest in New Mexico, where the average is 97.4. This data reflects a total absence of reported crime across the two reporting agencies.

Standing Out Among Nearby Counties

While neighboring Hidalgo reports a crime rate of 1490.4, Luna records no activity. This significant difference highlights the quiet nature of Luna County’s recent reporting period.

Zero Reported Violent and Property Crime

Both property and violent crime rates were recorded at 0.0 per 100K for the year. This indicates that residents experienced no reported criminal activity throughout 2022.

Staying Prepared and Vigilant

While the data shows no crime, residents should still practice standard home safety protocols. Functional locks and exterior lighting are easy ways to ensure the county remains secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Luna County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Unified Education Network in Luna County

Luna County manages its education system through a single school district containing 13 public schools. This infrastructure supports 5,366 students across six elementary, two middle, and four high schools. One of these facilities is a charter school, accounting for about 8% of the county's total options.

Luna County Academic Performance and Investment

The county's 75.0% graduation rate falls below the state average of 79.0% and significantly trails the national benchmark of 87.0%. Investment remains modest at $7,130 per pupil, which is lower than the New Mexico average of $7,957. These factors contribute to a composite school score of 45.9 out of 100.

Deming Public Schools Leads the Region

Deming Public Schools serves as the sole district for the county, managing all 5,366 students. The district includes specialized facilities like Deming High, which has a student population of 1,279. One charter school operates within the county to provide alternative educational pathways for local families.

Small-Town Feel with Centralized Hubs

Education here is centered in town settings, where nine of the 13 schools are located, while four schools serve rural areas. The average school size is 413 students, ranging from the large Deming High to smaller primary campuses like Chaparral Elementary with 413 students. Most students attend school in a 'town' locale rather than a rural or urban environment.

Finding Your Home in Deming Schools

Families looking for a close-knit community often settle near Deming's elementary hubs like Bataan or Columbus Elementary. When researching homes in Luna County, consider how school proximity and the single-district structure impact your long-term property value. Explore local listings to find the right fit for your student's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Luna County

via RiskByCounty

Luna County's risk: Below average nationally

Luna County scores 51.59 on composite risk, placing it in the Relatively Low category and well below the national average. This modest risk profile reflects a community less exposed to multiple hazards simultaneously compared to the typical U.S. county.

Middle of the pack in New Mexico

Luna County ranks in the middle tier statewide with a composite score of 51.59, compared to New Mexico's average of 58.92. The county's risk profile sits below the state median, making it one of the safer counties in the region.

Less risky than surrounding counties

Luna County's 51.59 score is lower than neighboring Hidalgo County and other southwestern counties. Among nearby communities, Luna faces relatively modest multi-hazard exposure, though wildfire remains a shared concern across the region.

Wildfire and earthquakes top the list

Wildfire risk dominates at 82.12, making it Luna County's primary natural hazard concern and a significant threat to residents and property. Earthquake risk ranks second at 54.04, though flood risk at 57.54 also merits attention given the county's arid southwestern landscape.

Prioritize wildfire and earthquake coverage

Luna County residents should secure comprehensive homeowners insurance with wildfire coverage, as blazes pose the greatest threat to structures and livelihoods. Consider earthquake insurance as well, especially if your home is older or not recently retrofitted for seismic safety.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Luna County

via WaterByCounty

Luna County earns an F for water compliance

Luna County records 18 health-based violations over the past five years, resulting in a failing water quality grade. While the county violation rate of 95.5 per 100,000 residents is lower than the New Mexico average of 475.7, the persistent safety issues remain a concern. Local utilities continue to struggle with meeting federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

E. Coli and Boron impact local watersheds

In the 2022 assessment cycle, 16.7% of evaluated water bodies in Luna County failed Clean Water Act standards. The primary impairments stem from E. Coli bacteria and Boron levels across three compromised sites. This impairment rate is slightly better than the statewide average of 20%.

Very limited water quality monitoring activity

Monitoring is sparse in Luna County, with only one active site recorded in the federal Water Quality Portal over the last five years. This single location produced just 48 measurements, primarily focusing on PFAS and physical water characteristics. The lack of data density makes it difficult to track long-term contamination trends across the county.

No active streamgages monitored in Luna County

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage providing live flow data for Luna County's waterways. Without active discharge monitoring, the county relies heavily on drinking water compliance records to assess water availability and safety. This gap in data highlights the region's reliance on groundwater rather than surface streamflow.

Take precautions against bacteria and boron

Because E. Coli and Boron affect local watersheds, residents should verify that their drinking water sources are adequately filtered. The failing compliance grade suggests that private well owners should conduct regular independent testing. Focus on high-quality filtration systems that specifically target inorganic contaminants like boron.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Luna County

via WeatherByCounty

High Heat in the Chihuahuan Desert

Luna County averages a warm 62.6°F annually, placing it well above the national median temperature. This arid landscape receives just 9.7 inches of rain per year, making it significantly drier than most U.S. counties.

One of New Mexico's Warmest Spots

The county's 62.6°F average temperature far exceeds the New Mexico state average of 54.8°F. It also falls below the state's 14.0-inch precipitation average, marking it as a particularly dry region of the state.

Drier and Warmer Than the North

Luna County experiences 111 extreme heat days, far surpassing the 53 days seen in San Juan County to the north. Its 9.7 inches of annual precipitation is also lower than Roosevelt County's 16.5 inches on the eastern plains.

Endless Summers and Negligible Snow

Summers are intense with an 80.5°F average and over 100 days above 90°F. Winters are mild at 44.7°F, and the county receives a mere 0.6 inches of snow annually.

Prepare for Intense Solar Exposure

Residents need high-efficiency cooling systems to handle 111 days of extreme heat. Since snow is rare, focus your home maintenance on sun protection and water conservation for the dry 9.7-inch rainfall cycle.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Luna County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils of Luna County

Luna County soils feature an average pH of 7.44, which is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This high mineral content is characteristic of the Chihuahuan Desert landscape and influences how local plants absorb nutrients.

A Balanced Sand-Heavy Mix

The soil composition is 49.0% sand, 27.8% silt, and 17.8% clay. This gritty texture ensures the ground is easy to work and provides adequate space for root development, though it may require frequent watering.

Building Organic Life in Arid Land

With organic matter at 0.73%, Luna falls below the state average of 1.27% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.114 in/in is also slightly lower than the New Mexico average, highlighting the need for soil amendments.

Understanding Runoff and Slow Infiltration

Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a very slow infiltration rate when thoroughly wet. While specific drainage classes are not listed, this grouping suggests a higher potential for runoff during heavy monsoon rains.

Desert Favorites Thrive in Zone 8a

Situated in hardiness zone 8a, Luna County is ideal for heat-tolerant crops like pecans and chile peppers. Gardeners can find great success by adding compost to help the soil retain moisture during the long, hot growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Luna County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Luna County's Steep Lawn Challenges

Luna County carries a lawn difficulty score of 17.0, making it significantly harder to maintain turf here than the national median of 50.0. In hardiness zone 8a, local growers face more resistance than the average New Mexico resident who enjoys a state score of 30.2.

Extreme Heat and Limited Rainfall

The county receives just 9.7 inches of annual precipitation, which is less than a third of the 30-50 inches required for ideal growth. With 111 extreme heat days per year and 5266 growing degree days, lawns require aggressive irrigation to survive the desert sun.

Sandy Soil Needs Nutrient Support

The soil pH of 7.44 is more alkaline than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, which can lock out essential plant nutrients. Composed of 49.0% sand, the ground drains quickly and often requires organic matter to improve moisture retention.

Managing Year-Round Drought Stress

Luna County spent all 53 weeks of the past year in drought, with 39.6% of the area currently facing severe conditions. To conserve water, homeowners should utilize deep-soak methods early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Selecting Resilient Grasses for Zone 8a

Heat-tolerant varieties like Bermuda or Buffalo grass are the best choices for this climate. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on April 5 to give your lawn time to establish before July's 81.7°F average heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Luna County's county score?
Luna County, New Mexico has a composite county score of 59 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Luna County rank among counties in New Mexico?
Luna County ranks #9 among all counties in New Mexico on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Luna County, New Mexico?
The median annual property tax in Luna County is $648, with an effective tax rate of 0.58%. This earns Luna County a tax score of 77.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Luna County?
The median household income in Luna County, New Mexico is $37,917 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Luna County earns an income score of 2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Luna County, New Mexico a good place to live?
Luna County scores 59/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in New Mexico. The best way to evaluate Luna County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Luna County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.