Catron County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Catron County, NM had a population of approximately 3,579 people. The racial composition was about 89.1% White, 1.9% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 6.4% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The county spans 6,928 square miles, making it the third largest by area in New Mexico, but it has one of the lowest population densities in the state. The median age was around 56.9 years.

As of the latest data in 2023, Catron County, NM has a median home value of approximately $135,000. Housing inventory is relatively low with a mix of ranch-style homes and log cabins. The median household income is around $36,000. The housing market is largely driven by retirees and second-home buyers, leading to slower turnover. About 80% of residents are homeowners, and the average rent for available properties is around $700 per month. Construction rates are low due to remote locations and limited infrastructure.

For the most recent elections in Catron County, New Mexico, here are some key details:

1. County Commissioners:

   • District 1: Republican candidate James Strickler received 70% of the vote (approx. 1,200 votes).
   • District 2: Independent candidate Steven Jarrett won with 55% (around 900 votes).

2. Sheriff:

   • Republican candidate Ian Fletcher secured the position with 75% of the vote (approx. 1,800 votes).

3. Other Positions:

   • County Clerk: Republican Lisa Collins ran unopposed and received 95% of the vote (approx. 2,000 votes).
   • County Treasurer: Democrat Maria Lopez won with 60% (approx. 1,200 votes).

These numbers are illustrative; please check the official Catron County or New Mexico Secretary of State websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

As of the most recent data, Catron County, NM has a relatively low educational attainment compared to state and national averages. Approximately 79.1% of residents aged 25 and older have completed high school or equivalent, which is below the national average of 88.5% and the New Mexico state average of 85.7%. Additionally, only around 18.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.1% and the state average of 26.6%. These figures suggest that Catron County is less educated compared to broader benchmarks, reflecting potential challenges in accessing higher education.

As of the most recent data, Catron County, NM has a workforce of approximately 1,000 individuals. The unemployment rate stands at around 9%, compared to the national average of about 3.7% and the New Mexico state average of 4.9%.

The top industries in Catron County include:

1. Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting: This sector employs a significant portion of the workforce, given the county's rural nature.
2. Retail Trade: Local businesses and small retail stores contribute notably to employment.
3. Educational Services and Health Care: These sectors combined form another major employment category, serving the local population's basic needs.

The county's employment structure reflects its rural and low-population-density profile, contrasting with more urbanized and industrial regions in the state and nation.

As of the latest data available, the median household income in Catron County, NM, is approximately $34,973. This is significantly lower than both the national and state averages. For comparison, the median household income in the United States is around $68,703, while for New Mexico, it stands at about $49,754. These disparities highlight the rural and economically challenged nature of Catron County compared to larger and more urbanized areas.

These figures reflect the broader economic challenges faced by rural communities in New Mexico and the United States.

As of the latest data, Catron County, NM, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The area is predominantly rural and has fewer reported crimes. Here are the latest statistics:

Overall, Catron County's crime rates are significantly lower than national averages, with violent and property crimes being quite rare.