countyscore
33.2
County Score
Property Tax 66.1Cost of Living 50.1Weather & Climate 39.8

County Report Card

About San Juan County, New Mexico

Significant National Gap

San Juan County scores a 33.2 overall, placing it well behind the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the lower tiers of counties nationally across multiple categories.

Below the State Average

The county's 33.2 score sits well under the New Mexico average of 49.1. It highlights a need for improvement in public safety and healthcare access to reach state parity.

Moderate Taxes and Costs

Tax burden is manageable with a score of 66.1 and an effective rate of 0.675%. Housing costs are also mid-range, with a cost score of 50.1 and a median home value of $185,100.

Widespread Institutional Challenges

Low scores in risk (11.7), health (15.7), and safety (19.7) create a difficult environment for residents. These figures represent significant barriers to general wellness and community stability.

Best for Industrial Workers

San Juan County is most suitable for those working in local industries who can find housing at a reasonable price point. It attracts residents focused on local employment who are less concerned with high health and safety scores.

Score breakdown

Tax66.1Cost50.1Safety19.7Health15.7Schools23.7Income20.7Risk11.7Water24.3Weather39.8
🏛66.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠50.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤15.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓23.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧24.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤39.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱31.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

San Juan County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in San Juan County

via TaxByCounty

San Juan's taxes remain below national levels

San Juan County's effective tax rate of 0.675% is substantially lower than the national median, with homeowners paying $1,249 annually on the median property value. This represents approximately 54% less than the national median tax bill of $2,690, positioning San Juan among the more affordable counties nationwide.

San Juan slightly above state average

San Juan County's 0.675% rate exceeds New Mexico's state average of 0.595%, making it one of the higher-taxed counties in the state. However, the median tax of $1,249 is only 20% above the state median of $1,043, reflecting both the elevated rate and San Juan's higher median home values of $185,100.

San Juan leads region in tax rates

San Juan's 0.675% rate significantly exceeds Luna (0.576%), Otero (0.563%), and Roosevelt (0.436%), but remains far below McKinley's exceptional 1.889%. Among northwestern New Mexico counties, San Juan's rate reflects a deliberate policy to fund county services at above-state-average levels.

Median San Juan home: $1,249 annual tax

On San Juan's median home value of $185,100, property owners pay approximately $1,249 in annual taxes, reflecting both the county's elevated rate and higher property values. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $1,371 after insurance and fees, while those owning outright pay around $1,024.

Challenge your assessment if overestimated

With San Juan's higher tax rates, any overvaluation in the assessment process carries meaningful financial consequences for homeowners. Request a free assessment review and file an appeal if your home's assessed value exceeds similar properties sold recently in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in San Juan County

via CostByCounty

San Juan County rents strain budgets

San Juan County residents spend 20.8% of their income on rent, exceeding New Mexico's 19.4% state average and approaching affordability stress levels. At $917 monthly rent—the highest among these eight counties—San Juan County renters earn $53,020 median income, requiring careful budgeting for housing costs.

Highest rents in state sample

San Juan County's $917 monthly rent ranks highest among these rural New Mexico counties and exceeds the state median of $876. Despite the affordability pressure, San Juan's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio remains manageable compared to the state's least affordable counties.

Premium pricing in northwestern region

San Juan County's $917 rent represents the highest in this sample, followed closely by Otero County at $926. This northwestern county commands a price premium over rural peers like Quay ($752) and Luna ($685), likely reflecting stronger regional economic activity and development.

Renters carry heavier burden than owners

San Juan County renters pay $917 monthly while homeowners spend $751—a significant difference reflecting varied affordability between tenures. With median income of $53,020, renters dedicate 20.8% of gross income to housing while homeowners spend roughly 16.9%, making ownership notably more affordable.

Premium market for homebuyers

San Juan County's median home value of $185,100—the second-highest in this group—justifies premium rents and reflects stronger regional economic fundamentals. Relocators with homeownership plans may find San Juan's market growth potential worth the premium; renters should budget carefully for the county's above-average housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in San Juan County

via IncomeByCounty

San Juan earns 29% below national median

San Juan County's median household income of $53,020 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 29%, placing it solidly in America's lower-income tier. However, San Juan ranks among New Mexico's better-earning counties, benefiting from energy sector employment and some tourism revenue.

Upper earner among New Mexico counties

San Juan County ranks in the top third of New Mexico's 33 counties, with median household income of $53,020 just $2,449 below the state average of $55,469. Per capita income of $26,583 remains 18% below the state average, suggesting wealth concentration among higher earners.

Near-equal earner with Rio Arriba

San Juan's $53,020 median income nearly matches Rio Arriba ($53,901), and both substantially exceed Luna ($37,917), McKinley ($44,496), and Quay ($43,698). This similarity reflects comparable exposure to energy sector wages and government employment across the two northwestern counties.

Housing costs manageable despite high values

San Juan's rent-to-income ratio of 20.8% hovers just above the affordability threshold, though median home values of $185,100 are among the highest in this analysis. The county's higher incomes relative to state peers enable reasonable housing affordability despite elevated property values.

Build wealth on energy sector foundation

San Juan residents can leverage higher incomes to prioritize long-term wealth building through retirement savings, real estate equity, and investment diversification. Consider bolstering family financial security by exploring second income streams and ensuring adequate insurance coverage during energy sector economic cycles.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in San Juan County

via CrimeByCounty

San Juan County Safety Overview

San Juan County reports a total crime rate of 2091.2 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.7.

San Juan vs New Mexico Trends

The county's safety score of 96.7 is just below the state average of 97.4. Its total crime rate of 2091.2 is higher than the New Mexico average of 1638.5.

San Juan vs McKinley County

San Juan's crime rate of 2091.2 is slightly lower than McKinley's 2181.1. However, San Juan faces a higher violent crime rate compared to many of its neighbors.

Violent Crime Concerns in San Juan

The violent crime rate is significantly high at 659.3 per 100K, nearly double the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also prevalent at 1431.9 per 100K.

Prioritizing Personal and Home Safety

High violent crime rates make personal safety awareness and home security systems vital. Residents should work with the four local reporting agencies to stay informed about risks.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in San Juan County

via HealthByCounty

San Juan County Below National Health Averages

At 69.8 years, San Juan County residents live 3.3 years shorter than the U.S. average of 73.1 years, indicating persistent health challenges in this northwestern region. Nearly 25% report poor or fair health, approaching national levels and reflecting significant chronic disease burden.

Lower Half Health Rankings Statewide

San Juan County's 69.8-year life expectancy ranks in the lower third of New Mexico counties, falling 3.9 years below the state average of 73.7 years. The 24.9% poor/fair health rate exceeds typical state burden, placing San Juan among the more challenged counties.

Trailing Healthier Counties in Region

San Juan County's 69.8-year life expectancy matches Luna County (72.1 years but trails Roosevelt County (74.4 years) and significantly lags Otero County (74.9 years). The disparity underscores health inequities across northwestern and southwestern New Mexico.

Adequate Primary Care, Significant Uninsured Rate

San Juan County has 53 primary care providers per 100K and 282 mental health providers per 100K, providing moderate access to both services. However, the 12.8% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 10.2%, meaning cost and coverage barriers limit actual care-seeking for many families.

Enroll Today, Access Care Tomorrow

San Juan County residents can explore Medicaid or marketplace plans at Healthcare.gov or visit local federally qualified health centers for sliding-scale care. Securing insurance removes barriers to the primary and mental health care your county offers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in San Juan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Education Network in San Juan

San Juan County operates a massive system of 51 public schools serving 21,384 students. This includes 26 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 12 high schools across four districts. Two charter schools operate here, and the county also supports four alternative schools and one special education facility.

High Scale, Moderate Academic Metrics

The county maintains a graduation rate of 75.0%, which is slightly lower than the New Mexico average of 79.0%. Per-pupil spending is $7,169, which falls about $800 short of the state average and well below the $13,000 national benchmark. These factors result in a county-wide school score of 46.0.

Farmington Municipal Schools at the Core

Farmington Municipal Schools is the largest district, educating 11,201 students across 20 different schools. Central Consolidated and Aztec Municipal also play major roles, serving 5,037 and 2,562 students respectively. Farmington High and Piedra Vista High are the county's largest campuses, combined serving over 3,400 students.

Diverse Urban, Town, and Rural Mix

San Juan is unique for its locale diversity, featuring 18 city schools, 19 town schools, and 14 rural schools. The average school size is 428 students, but major urban high schools like Farmington High exceed 1,800 students. This variety allows families to choose between a bustling city campus or a more isolated rural school environment.

Locating Your Family in San Juan County

With over 50 schools to choose from, home buyers have a wide range of options from urban Farmington to rural outposts near Aztec. The proximity to high-performing high schools like Piedra Vista is a major factor for many local real estate decisions. Explore the diverse neighborhoods and school types to find the perfect environment for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in San Juan County

via RiskByCounty

San Juan County faces highest state risk

San Juan County scores 88.30 on composite risk, earning a Relatively Moderate rating and placing it well above the national average. This is New Mexico's highest composite risk score, reflecting extreme exposure to multiple serious natural hazards.

New Mexico's most hazard-vulnerable county

San Juan County ranks at the very top of New Mexico's risk hierarchy with an 88.30 score, substantially exceeding the state average of 58.92 and surpassing all other counties in the state. The county faces the most significant multi-hazard exposure in New Mexico.

Riskier than all adjacent counties

San Juan County's 88.30 score significantly exceeds neighboring McKinley, Rio Arriba, and San Juan Basin counties. The county's northwestern location and complex geology create a perfect storm of overlapping natural hazard threats.

Flood, earthquake, and wildfire all severe

Flood risk reaches 92.40, making San Juan County one of New Mexico's most flood-prone areas with significant threats to homes and infrastructure. Earthquake risk at 83.94 and wildfire risk at 81.55 create a formidable multi-hazard environment.

Comprehensive, multi-layered protection required

San Juan County residents must secure flood insurance immediately, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage and the county faces extreme inundation risk. Add earthquake coverage and verify wildfire protection; consider consulting an insurance broker to ensure all major hazards are covered given the county's exceptional risk profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in San Juan County

via WeatherByCounty

Arid High Desert Extremes

San Juan County averages 52.3°F, falling slightly below the national median temperature. It is exceptionally dry, receiving only 9.2 inches of annual precipitation.

Drier Than the State Average

San Juan's 9.2 inches of annual precipitation is well below the New Mexico average of 14.0 inches. Its 52.3°F annual temperature is also slightly cooler than the state average of 54.8°F.

Cooler and Drier Than the South

San Juan is much drier than neighboring McKinley County, which receives 12.8 inches of rain. It also experiences 53 heat days, less than half of the 111 days recorded in southern Luna County.

Moderate Summers and Dry Winters

July averages 75.4°F with roughly 53 days of extreme heat per year. Winters are cold and dry, averaging 32.4°F with only 8.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Prioritize Water Conservation

With only 9.2 inches of rain, xeriscaping and water efficiency are essential for every household. Prepare for 53 days of heat above 90°F, but remember that winter nights frequently drop below freezing.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in San Juan County

via SoilByCounty

Arid High-Desert Identity

Specific identity and pH data for San Juan County are currently unavailable in the database. Like much of the Four Corners region, the soils are likely alkaline, requiring management strategies to keep the pH balanced for garden plants.

High-Desert Textural Variation

Percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not recorded for this specific area. The county's blend of mesas and river valleys suggests a high degree of textural diversity that can only be confirmed through site-specific testing.

Supporting Local Growth

Organic matter and available water capacity figures are missing from the current records. Local growers should focus on building up soil structure to meet the state average organic matter level of 1.27% for better garden results.

Water Management in the West

Comprehensive drainage data is currently unavailable for San Juan County. Given the arid climate, understanding how your soil handles irrigation water is the most important factor for preventing salt buildup and ensuring plant health.

River Valley Abundance in Zone 7a

San Juan County's hardiness zone 7a is perfect for growing apples, grapes, and various stone fruits. Even with limited data, the high-desert climate rewards gardeners who focus on soil health and take advantage of the sunny, warm days.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in San Juan County

via LawnByCounty

San Juan’s High-Desert Difficulty

With a score of 31.4, San Juan County is one of the few counties to exceed the New Mexico state average of 30.2. Despite this, the zone 7a climate remains much more challenging than the national median of 50.0.

The State’s Driest Lawn Conditions

The county receives just 9.2 inches of annual precipitation, making it the driest on this list. Lawns here depend almost entirely on irrigation to bridge the gap between 3148 growing degree days and the 53 extreme heat days.

Groundwork for Desert Turf

Specific soil data is missing for the county, but the arid landscape typically suggests a need for phosphorus and organic amendments. Testing your soil for drainage is critical given the severe lack of natural rainfall in this region.

Facing Critical Water Scarcity

A heavy 74.6% of San Juan County is in severe drought, and conditions have persisted for 53 weeks. To maintain a lawn, you must prioritize xeriscaping principles or high-efficiency drip systems to survive these extreme conditions.

Best Grasses for San Juan's 7a Zone

Buffalo grass is the most sustainable choice for this extremely dry climate. Plan to plant your seeds after the May 4 last frost so the lawn can establish before the first fall frost on October 15.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is San Juan County's county score?
San Juan County, New Mexico has a composite county score of 33.2 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 San Juan County rank among counties in New Mexico?
San Juan County ranks #30 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 San Juan County, New Mexico?
The median annual property tax in San Juan County is $1,249, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns San Juan County a tax score of 66.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in San Juan County?
The median household income in San Juan County, New Mexico is $53,020 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. San Juan County earns an income score of 20.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is San Juan County, New Mexico a good place to live?
San Juan County scores 33.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #30 in New Mexico. The best way to evaluate San Juan 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 San Juan County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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