Alamogordo, New Mexico

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

75
Overall Score

Alamogordo, New Mexico, is a city nestled in the Tularosa Basin, at the base of the Sacramento Mountains and on the eastern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert. It serves as a gateway to natural wonders like the White Sands National Park and is known for its proximity to Holloman Air Force Base, which significantly influences its economy and demographics. The city offers a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural history, and a small-town atmosphere, making it an appealing location for military families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle with access to natural beauty.

About New Mexico

New Mexico, known as the "Land of Enchantment," offers a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. The state's economy is diversified, with major industries including oil and gas, aerospace and defense, agriculture, tourism, and advanced manufacturing. Living in New Mexico generally entails a lower cost of living compared to the national average, particularly for housing and utilities. The climate is largely arid or semi-arid with abundant sunshine, warm to hot days, and cool nights, though higher elevations experience an alpine climate with four distinct seasons. The lifestyle is often described as laid-back, with a strong sense of community and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities due to its varied landscapes.

32,189
Population
$52K
Avg Salary
86
Cost Index
75.0
Quality Score
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Quality Scores

Business
65
Livability
77
Affordability
86
Growth
60

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Alamogordo is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many. The overall cost of everyday goods and services, including housing, utilities, and healthcare, contributes to its affordability. While specific cost of living index figures vary, the city generally ranks as more affordable compared to many other U.S. cities. This lower cost is a significant factor in the city's appeal, allowing residents to stretch their incomes further.

Average Rent
$1,056/mo
Groceries
$450/mo
Transport
$120/mo
Utilities
$180/mo
Healthcare
$250/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$14.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$22.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Alamogordo's job market is primarily driven by sectors such as Healthcare & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Public Administration, with the latter heavily influenced by Holloman Air Force Base. As of 2024, the employed population was around 11,609. However, the city experienced a job growth rate decline of -1.38% from 2023 to 2024. The average annual salary in Alamogordo was approximately $51,505 in Fiscal Year 2024, which is higher than prevailing local wages. The presence of the Air Force Base provides a stable employment foundation, but diversification and growth in other private sectors are ongoing efforts.

The average salary in Alamogordo is $51,505 per year. You would need approximately $40,992 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Healthcare & Social Assistance +1.50% Public Administration +0.50% Retail Trade +1.00% Accommodation & Food Services +2.00% Education Services +1.00%

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
40.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Alamogordo primarily relies on personal vehicles, with a high car dependency among residents. Approximately 90.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle. The city is exceptionally drivable, with an average commute time of just 18 minutes, significantly shorter than the national average. While public transit options are present, the city's walkability score is relatively low, indicating that most errands require a car.

18 min
Avg Commute
60.00/10
Transit Score
24.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency
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Pros & Cons

Advantages
The cost of living in Alamogordo is significantly lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
Residents benefit from a short average commute time of 18 minutes, well below the national average.
The city boasts a high safety score, with violent crime rates reported to be 86% below the national average.
Alamogordo offers a high homeownership rate, with 67% of housing units occupied by owners in 2024.
Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center, the city's main hospital, received an “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade in spring 2026, indicating high-quality healthcare.
Drawbacks
The city experienced a job growth rate decline of -1.38% from 2023 to 2024.
Alamogordo has a low walkability score of 24, indicating high car dependency for most errands.
The median household income of $55,952 in 2024 is lower than the national average.
A poverty rate of 16.63% in 2026 is higher than the national average.
Public transportation options are limited, with a transit access score of 6/10.

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