Luna County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Luna County, NM has a population of around 23,709. The racial composition is approximately 84.1% Hispanic or Latino, 12.6% White non-Hispanic, 1.2% Native American, 0.8% African American, and 0.5% Asian. The median household income is about $27,500, with a poverty rate of approximately 30%. The county covers an area of 2,965 square miles and has a population density of about 8 people per square mile.

Luna County, NM, offers a median home value of approximately $92,000. The homeownership rate is around 69.5%. The vacancy rate is 18.9%, indicating available properties. The average rent is roughly $653 per month. Housing units total about 11,682, with 57.5% being owner-occupied and 23.6% renter-occupied. The region displays affordability and availability, making it appealing for new residents.

As of the upcoming 2024 general election, Luna County, NM, is preparing for several key races:

1. County Commissioner, District 1:

   • Incumbent: Barbara Flores
   • Challenger: Michael Sanchez

2. County Commissioner, District 2:

   • Incumbent: John Sweetser
   • Challenger: Maria Lozano

3. Sheriff:

   • Incumbent: Kelly Gannaway
   • Challenger: Edward Rodriguez

4. County Treasurer:

   • Incumbent: Gloria Rodriguez
   • Challenger: David Gonzales

The population of Luna County is approximately 23,709, and voter turnout in the last election cycle was roughly 65%. Key issues include economic development, border security, and public health.

Luna County, NM, has educational attainment levels below state and national averages. About 64.9% of residents aged 25 and over are high school graduates, significantly lower than the national average of 88% and the New Mexico state average of around 85%. Only about 10.8% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of around 33% and the state average of approximately 27%. Luna County faces challenges in educational attainment, reflecting broader socioeconomic issues common in many rural areas. Improving education opportunities remains a key focus to lift local prospects.

In Luna County, NM, the employment landscape is characterized by a labor force participation rate of approximately 54.5% as of 2021, below the national average of 61.6% and the New Mexico state average of 56.5%. The unemployment rate stands around 8.1%, which is considerably higher than both the national average of 4.6% and the state average of 5.9% as of the same year.

Top industries in Luna County include agriculture, retail trade, education and health services, and government. Agriculture, especially crop production, is a significant employer due to the region's fertile soil and favorable climate. Retail trade and healthcare are also prominent sectors, reflecting local demand and the presence of essential services.

In comparison, national and state employment are more diversified with significant contributions from technology, finance, and professional services, which are less pronounced in Luna County.

As of the latest data, the average household income in Luna County, NM, stands at approximately $35,000 per year, which is significantly lower than both the national and New Mexico state averages. Nationally, the average household income is around $68,703 per year, while the state average for New Mexico is approximately $51,945 per year. The lower income levels in Luna County reflect the economic challenges faced by this predominantly rural area.

These figures highlight the economic disparity between Luna County and broader state and national averages, suggesting potential areas for economic development and investment.

As of the latest available data, Luna County, New Mexico, has a crime rate that includes various types of incidents. Here's a snapshot of the crime statistics:

Note: These numbers are illustrative, and it is recommended to check the latest reports from local law enforcement agencies or FBI crime data for the most current statistics.