Carlsbad, NM

Very Low · 71

New Mexico · Population 31,813 · Updated March 2026

$1,206
Median Rent / Month
$78,277
Median Income
$187,900
Median Home Value
$911
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Carlsbad

18.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in New Mexico

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.9%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.0%
Sales Tax
0.67%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$14,472
Annual Rent
$4,618
State Income Tax
$1,259
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Carlsbad is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 71 (where 100 equals the national median), Carlsbad residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,206/month while earning a median household income of $78,277/year.

The median home value in Carlsbad, NM is $187,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $911 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

New Mexico has a moderate income tax rate of 5.9%. Combined with a 5.0% sales tax rate and 0.67% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Carlsbad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Carlsbad

What is the cost of living in Carlsbad, NM?
The cost of living index in Carlsbad, NM is 71 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,206, median household income is $78,277/year, and the median home value is $187,900.
Is Carlsbad, NM affordable?
Yes, Carlsbad is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 71. The rent-to-income ratio is 18.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Carlsbad, NM?
The median gross rent in Carlsbad, NM is $1,206 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $14,472.
What is the median household income in Carlsbad?
The median household income in Carlsbad, NM is $78,277 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in New Mexico?
New Mexico has a top income tax rate of 5.9%, a sales tax of 5.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.67%.