Otero County, New Mexico Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Otero County is located in New Mexico with a total population of 68,235. It is the 9th most populous county out of 33 in New Mexico.

Age Demographics

The median age in Otero County is 36.3 years. This is 7% lower than the state median of 39.2 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Otero County is $52,717. This is 15% lower than the state median of $62,125. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 33% lower. The poverty rate stands at 20.0%. This is 10% higher than the state poverty rate of 18.1%. The unemployment rate is 9.1%. This is 51% higher than the state rate of 6.0%. The median home value is $149,500. Housing costs are 36% lower than the state median of $232,200. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.8x, Otero County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 65.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% lower than the state average of 69.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Otero County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 46.6% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 39.1%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (3.4% vs 1.8%).

Education

21.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 28% lower than the state rate of 30.2%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 87.3%.