Cost of Living in Ruidoso Downs, NM

With a cost of living index of 62, Ruidoso Downs, NM is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 38% cheaper than the national average and 24% below the New Mexico state average of 86. Ruidoso Downs is a small community of 2,629 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ruidoso Downs's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $826 (37% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $55,400 (82% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Ruidoso Downs is $31,413, which is 58% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 32% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.