Tierra Amarilla Public RecordsNew Mexico

Tierra Amarilla, located in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, has a population of approximately 410 residents. The median age is about 40 years, with 51% male and 49% female. The community is predominantly Hispanic or Latino (75%), with Whites making up 22%, Native Americans 2%, and other races 1%. The population is split between young families and older adults, reflecting a diverse age distribution in this rural area.

Tierra Amarilla, a census-designated place in Rio Arriba County, NM, is served mainly by the Chama Valley Independent Schools district, including Escalante Middle/High School and Tierra Amarilla Elementary. As of 2024, the district comprises 2 schools with around 400 students total. The high school graduation rate is about 85%, but only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree. School safety incidents are low, with generally positive community feedback. Educational programs focus on bilingual education, vocational training, and some adult education offerings, though advanced placement and enrichment options are limited.

Tierra Amarilla, a small community in Rio Arriba County, NM (population ~300), lacks hospitals; the nearest is Presbyterian Española Hospital (about 35 miles away). Local healthcare is mainly through the Rio Arriba Health Commons Clinic and El Centro Family Health, offering primary and behavioral care. About 17% of county residents remain uninsured (vs. NM average 10.4%), and 50% identify as Hispanic/Latino. Common health issues include diabetes, substance abuse, and heart disease. Provider shortages persist, with Rio Arriba County designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for both primary and mental health care.

Tierra Amarilla, in Rio Arriba County, NM, is a rural community where about 75% of residents own their homes and 25% rent. Median home values are around $110,000, with typical rents near $850/month. Housing stock mainly consists of single-family homes and historic adobe houses. Property values have remained stable, with slight 1–2% annual appreciation in recent years. Neighborhoods are quiet and spread out, reflecting the area’s agricultural roots. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.55% of assessed value, or roughly $605 annually for a median home, making it an affordable option for homeowners.

Transportation in Tierra Amarilla, Rio Arriba, NM, is primarily car-dependent, with over 90% of workers commuting by private vehicle and less than 1% using public transit. The average one-way commute time is approximately 25 minutes. Public bus service is limited through North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) routes. Most households own at least one vehicle, with vehicle ownership rates exceeding 95%. Transportation infrastructure consists mainly of State Road 162 and U.S. Highway 84. Major employment centers are located nearby in Chama and Española, contributing to prevalent out-commuting from the area.