countyscore
31.9
County Score
Property Tax 67.6Cost of Living 43.4Weather & Climate 41.6

County Report Card

About Valencia County, New Mexico

Valencia County Trails National Livability Benchmarks

Valencia County earns a composite score of 31.9, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score indicates that the county faces more significant hurdles in quality-of-life metrics than the average American community.

Ranking Below the New Mexico Average

The county's overall score of 31.9 sits nearly 18 points lower than the New Mexico state average of 49.1. Within the state's competitive landscape, Valencia County struggles to match the baseline performance of its regional peers.

Low Tax Burden Offers Financial Relief

A strong tax score of 67.6 is the county's standout feature, driven by an attractive effective tax rate of just 0.660%. Residents also benefit from a health score of 40.3, which represents one of the more stable dimensions in the local data profile.

Safety and Education present Significant Hurdles

The county faces its toughest tests in public safety and education, where scores dip to 7.3 and 9.8 respectively. Additionally, a low water score of 14.2 suggests that resource management remains a critical area for improvement.

A Value-Focused Choice for Budget-Conscious Households

Valencia County is best suited for residents who prioritize low taxes and affordable housing, with median rents at a manageable $970. However, those with school-aged children or high safety requirements should carefully consider the trade-offs involved in living here.

Score breakdown

Tax67.6Cost43.4Safety7.3Health40.3Schools9.8Income33.8Risk17.8Water14.2Weather41.6
🏛67.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠43.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤40.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓9.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧14.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤41.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26.2
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Valencia County

Whether buying or refinancing in Valencia County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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
Compare Valencia County with Lowndes County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Lowndes County
Georgia
Median income: $55,887
31.9
Warren County
Mississippi
Median income: $56,648
31.9
Atlantic County
New Jersey
Median income: $76,819
31.9
Robeson County
North Carolina
Median income: $40,318
31.9
Osceola County
Florida
Median income: $68,711
31.8
Saginaw County
Michigan
Median income: $58,347
31.8
Gaston County
North Carolina
Median income: $65,472
31.8
Peach County
Georgia
Median income: $68,365
32

Nearby counties

Bernalillo County
New Mexico
27.6
Torrance County
New Mexico
42.2
Socorro County
New Mexico
54.4
Sandoval County
New Mexico
50.1
Santa Fe County
New Mexico
35.3
Cibola County
New Mexico
52.9
Los Alamos County
New Mexico
68.6
Lincoln County
New Mexico
58.3

Deep Dives

Valencia County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Valencia County

via TaxByCounty

Valencia's taxes are well below the national average

Valencia County homeowners pay an effective tax rate of 0.66%, significantly lower than the national median of 0.91%. With a median property tax of $1,365 annually, Valencia residents pay about half what the typical American homeowner pays ($2,690), placing the county in the bottom 30% nationally for tax burden.

Among the highest-taxed counties in New Mexico

Valencia County ranks above the state average, with an effective tax rate of 0.66% compared to New Mexico's statewide average of 0.595%. At $1,365 in median annual property taxes, Valencia residents pay about $322 more than the state median of $1,043, placing it in the top tier of New Mexico counties.

Higher taxes than most neighboring counties

Valencia County's 0.66% effective rate exceeds the state average and puts it among the higher-taxed counties in central New Mexico. While specific neighbor comparisons are limited, Valencia's rate reflects the region's property tax structure, making it worth monitoring for homeowners considering the broader state landscape.

What your Valencia home costs in taxes

The median Valencia home valued at $206,800 generates roughly $1,365 in annual property taxes at the current 0.66% rate. For homeowners with mortgages, that figure can rise to $1,479 annually, while those owning outright pay around $1,188—a manageable burden compared to national averages.

You might be overassessed—appeal today

Many Valencia County homeowners are unknowingly paying taxes on inflated assessments. If you believe your home's assessed value doesn't match the local market, filing a formal appeal with the county assessor's office could lower your annual tax bill—often with no cost to you.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Valencia County

via CostByCounty

Valencia's rents rival the national average

With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.9%, Valencia County residents spend slightly more on housing costs than the typical American household. The national median household income stands at $74,755, while Valencia's median income of $58,333 means renters here stretch their paychecks further to afford the county's median rent of $970 per month.

Nearly tied with New Mexico's median

Valencia's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% sits just above New Mexico's state average of 19.4%, placing the county in the middle tier of affordability statewide. The county's median rent of $970 exceeds the state average of $876, reflecting slightly higher housing costs than much of the rest of New Mexico.

How Valencia stacks up locally

Valencia County's median rent of $970 and median home value of $206,800 position it as a moderately priced option in central New Mexico. While specific neighbor county data isn't available for direct comparison, Valencia's affordability metrics suggest competitive housing costs for the region, offering residents a balance between access and expense.

Where Valencia incomes go

The typical Valencia household earning $58,333 annually dedicates nearly $970 monthly to rent—about 20% of gross income—while homeowners pay roughly $798 monthly for ownership costs. This split reveals that renters in Valencia carry a slightly heavier burden than homeowners, though both groups spend less than the national standard of 30% of income on housing.

Consider Valencia for moderate living costs

If you're weighing relocation options, Valencia County offers rent-to-income ratios below the national average and median home values under $210,000, making it accessible for both renters and buyers. The county's alignment with New Mexico's affordability profile means you'll find familiar cost structures while exploring a growing central New Mexico community.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Valencia County

via IncomeByCounty

Valencia lags behind national earnings

Valencia County's median household income of $58,333 falls about 22% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it well outside the top tier of American counties. This gap reflects broader economic patterns in rural New Mexico, where local wage growth hasn't kept pace with national trends.

Middle of the pack in New Mexico

Valencia County's $58,333 median household income ranks above New Mexico's state average of $55,469, putting it in the upper-middle tier of the state's 33 counties. Local earners benefit from slightly higher incomes than their counterparts in more rural parts of the state.

Stable earnings in central New Mexico

Valencia County's median household income sits just above the state average, competitive with other central New Mexico counties in the Albuquerque metro region. Per capita income of $30,066 slightly trails the state average of $32,602, suggesting lower individual earnings despite solid household totals.

Housing costs remain manageable here

At 19.9%, Valencia County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national affordability threshold of 30%, meaning renters spend a reasonable portion of earnings on housing. With a median home value of $206,800, homeownership remains within reach for households earning the county median, though financing requires careful planning.

Build financial security in Valencia

Valencia County residents earning near the median have solid ground to build savings and retirement plans, especially with manageable housing costs. Starting early with employer-sponsored retirement plans, emergency funds, and modest investments can help close the income gap with wealthier counties over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Valencia County

via CrimeByCounty

Valencia County exceeds national crime rates

The county has a safety score of 95.1 and a total crime rate of 3,073.8 per 100,000. This rate is higher than the national average of 2,385.5.

Below the New Mexico safety average

Valencia’s safety score of 95.1 trails the state average of 97.4. Its crime rate of 3,073.8 is nearly double the New Mexico average of 1,638.5.

Highest crime rate in the immediate area

Valencia’s rate of 3,073.8 is significantly higher than neighboring Socorro (850.9) and Torrance (2,308.8). It faces more safety challenges than many nearby rural counties.

Property crime is the primary issue

Property crime is high at 2,516.5 per 100K, while violent crime is 557.3. These numbers suggest a significant risk of theft and burglary for local residents.

Take active steps to protect your home

With property crime rates elevated, home security systems are essential. Focus on securing windows and garages to prevent unauthorized access.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Valencia County

via HealthByCounty

Valencia's life expectancy beats national trend

Residents of Valencia County live to an average of 74.5 years, outpacing the U.S. average of 74.1 years. However, one in five Valencia residents report poor or fair health (20.4%), which is higher than the national average of about 17%, signaling healthcare access or chronic disease challenges worth monitoring.

Healthier than most New Mexico counties

Valencia County's life expectancy of 74.5 years ranks above New Mexico's state average of 73.7 years, placing it among the healthier counties in the state. This modest advantage reflects better-than-average health outcomes in a state that faces significant health challenges.

Healthcare workforce varies across region

Valencia County has 30 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, which is below the typical benchmark of 50 providers per 100K needed for adequate access. The county's mental health provider density of 229 per 100,000 is notably strong, suggesting better mental healthcare availability than many rural areas in the Southwest.

One in ten lack health insurance

An estimated 10.8% of Valencia County residents are uninsured, slightly above New Mexico's state average of 10.2%. With primary care providers stretched thin at 30 per 100K, many residents delay preventive care or rely on emergency departments for routine health needs.

Explore coverage options today

If you're among the uninsured in Valencia County, health insurance options exist through New Mexico's marketplace, Medicaid, and employer plans. Contact a local health department or visit healthcare.gov to learn about affordability assistance and preventive care benefits that can help you and your family stay healthy.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Valencia County

via SchoolsByCounty

Valencia County Operates Twenty-Seven Public Schools

Three distinct school districts serve a total of 12,241 students across the county infrastructure. The system includes fifteen elementary schools, four middle schools, and six high schools that provide foundational education to the region.

Closing the Gap in Graduation and Funding

The county's 77.7% graduation rate trails the New Mexico average of 79% and remains below the 87% national benchmark. Per-pupil expenditure sits at $5,895, which is significantly lower than the national average of $13,000 and the state average of $7,957.

Los Lunas Leads Local School District Enrollment

Los Lunas Public Schools is the largest district in the area, managing sixteen schools and 8,234 students. The county also offers specialized options like the School of Dreams Academy, which is the only charter school in the county and serves 606 students.

Suburban Campus Settings Define the Student Experience

With twenty schools in suburban settings and seven in rural areas, the county offers a mix of campus environments. While Los Lunas High is the largest campus with 1,486 students, the average school size across the county remains a manageable 453 students.

Find Your Home Near Valencia County Schools

Families moving to the area often target homes near established campuses like Belen High or Katherine Gallegos Elementary. Start your home search today to find a property that puts your children close to their next classroom.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Valencia County

via RiskByCounty

Valencia ranks above average for disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 82.25, Valencia County faces relatively moderate natural disaster risk—notably higher than the national average. This score reflects significant exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly earthquakes, floods, and wildfires that are common across New Mexico's landscape.

One of New Mexico's riskier counties

Valencia's composite score of 82.25 places it well above New Mexico's state average of 58.92, making it among the state's higher-risk counties. This above-average exposure means residents face more frequent or intense natural hazard threats than most New Mexicans.

Significantly riskier than surrounding area

Valencia County's 82.25 score substantially exceeds New Mexico's state average, indicating it faces elevated hazard exposure compared to the broader region. While Hurricane Risk data is not available for this inland county, its earthquake (90.43), flood (89.63), and wildfire (87.40) scores are among the highest risk factors statewide.

Earthquakes and floods pose greatest threats

Earthquake risk dominates Valencia County's profile at 90.43—among the highest in the state due to its proximity to active seismic zones. Flood risk (89.63) and wildfire risk (87.40) are equally serious concerns, with the county's geography and climate making all three hazards persistent threats to homes and infrastructure.

Secure appropriate coverage now

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude earthquake and flood damage—two of Valencia County's top three risks—so specialized earthquake and flood insurance are essential. Review your coverage today to ensure you're protected against the specific hazards most likely to impact your property and community.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Valencia County

via WeatherByCounty

Valencia County Runs Warmer Than National Median

With an average annual temperature of 56.1°F, Valencia County sits slightly above the typical national temperature profile. Its semi-arid climate defines the landscape, characterized by a dry atmosphere that receives only 9.2 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer and Drier Than the New Mexico Average

Valencia County’s 56.1°F annual average makes it notably warmer than the New Mexico state average of 54.8°F. The county also sees significantly less moisture than the state average of 14.0 inches, marking it as one of the drier regions in the state.

Low Rainfall Sets Valencia Apart From Neighbors

While neighboring areas share the high-desert climate, Valencia County's 9.2 inches of annual rainfall is nearly 5 inches below the statewide average. This gap highlights a more intense aridity compared to New Mexico's more mountainous or forested counties.

Extreme Heat Days Dominate the Calendar

Residents face 92 extreme heat days per year where temperatures hit or exceed 90°F during the 75.7°F average summer. Winters stay relatively mild at 36.9°F, though the area still receives about 5.1 inches of snowfall annually.

Manage High Heat and Arid Conditions

Homeowners should prioritize high-efficiency cooling systems to handle the three months of consistent 90°F weather. Given the low 9.2-inch annual rainfall, xeriscaping and water-conscious landscaping are essential for sustainable outdoor planning.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Valencia County

via SoilByCounty

Exploring Valencia County's Soil Identity

While specific taxonomic data for Valencia is limited, the region generally follows New Mexico’s alkaline trend with a state average pH of 7.48. This is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5, reflecting the arid environment of the Southwest.

Understanding Local Soil Texture

Numerical data for sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable for this specific county. To manage drainage and nutrient retention effectively, local growers should perform simple jar tests to identify their unique soil texture.

Assessing Fertility and Water Needs

With local organic matter data missing, residents should look to the state average of 1.27% as a baseline for improvement. Building soil health through composting is vital to reach or exceed the national organic matter average of 2.0%.

Managing Drainage and Water Flow

Official drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not currently documented for this area's soil profile. Gardeners and builders must monitor site-specific water infiltration to ensure proper irrigation and structural stability.

Planting for Success in Zone 7b

Valencia County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b, providing a robust environment for summer favorites like chiles and squash. Start your garden today by testing your soil to unlock the full potential of this high-desert landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Valencia County

via LawnByCounty

Valencia County Faces Tough Lawn Challenges

With a lawn difficulty score of 26.2, maintaining grass here is significantly harder than the national median of 50.0 and trails the New Mexico state average of 30.2. Residents in Hardiness Zone 7b must navigate a high-desert environment that demands specialized care compared to more temperate regions.

Low Rainfall and Extreme Heat Test Turf

Valencia County receives just 9.2 inches of annual precipitation, falling far short of the 30-50 inches ideal for most lawns. The area endures 92 extreme heat days over 90°F annually, which is 34 days more than the state average and necessitates a rigorous irrigation schedule.

Prepare Your Foundation for Desert Growth

While specific local soil data is currently limited for this area, high-desert terrain generally requires significant organic amendments to improve water retention. Homeowners should conduct a private soil test to determine the exact pH and drainage needs before installing new sod or seed.

Managing Grass During Constant Drought Conditions

The county has spent all 53 weeks of the past year in drought, with nearly 69% of the area currently facing severe conditions. To conserve water, experts recommend deep, infrequent watering cycles and maintaining a higher grass height to shade the soil from the intense sun.

Timing Your Turf Success in Zone 7b

Heat-tolerant species like Buffalograss or Bermudagrass thrive best in this climate, provided they are established after the last frost on April 23. Aim to complete major seeding projects well before the first fall frost hits around October 21 to ensure deep root development.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Valencia County's county score?
Valencia County, New Mexico has a composite county score of 31.9 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 Valencia County rank among counties in New Mexico?
Valencia County ranks #31 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 Valencia County, New Mexico?
The median annual property tax in Valencia County is $1,365, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Valencia County a tax score of 67.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Valencia County?
The median household income in Valencia County, New Mexico is $58,333 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Valencia County earns an income score of 33.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Valencia County, New Mexico a good place to live?
Valencia County scores 31.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #31 in New Mexico. The best way to evaluate Valencia 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 Valencia County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.