Mora County Public RecordsNew Mexico

As of 2023, Mora County, NM has a population of approximately 4,200. The median age is around 49 years. About 50% of residents are male and 50% female. The county is predominantly Hispanic or Latino (78%), with White non-Hispanic residents making up about 18%, and smaller percentages identifying as Native American or other races. The population is largely rural, with a low population density spread across the mountainous landscape.

Mora County, NM, has about 2,900 registered voters as of 2024, predominantly Democrat (roughly 70%), with Republicans making up about 17%. Elections include federal, state, and local races; 2022 turnout was near 54%. Key issues are water rights and land use. Recent results favored Democrats by a 2:1 margin. Polling locations include the Mora County Courthouse and community centers in Wagon Mound and Holman. Elections are overseen by the County Clerk. Major parties are Democratic and Republican, with some independent candidates occasionally running.

Mora County, NM, reports lower crime rates compared to the national average, with violent crime at 11.9 and property crime at 22.7 per 1,000 residents, significantly below US averages of 22.7 and 35.4, respectively. Local law enforcement agencies actively monitor and address safety concerns, though underreporting can occur due to rural isolation. Regular reporting to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety helps track crime trends and resource allocation. Overall, residents experience a relatively safe environment, with community efforts supporting ongoing public safety initiatives.

Mora County, NM, serves around 960 students across three main public schools, including Mora High School. Approximately 80% of residents have a high school diploma, but fewer than 10% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools generally score near the state average on standardized assessments. The county offers adult education and GED programs through Mora Independent School District. School safety measures are in place, though resources are limited. Educational programs include bilingual and vocational training.

As of 2022, Mora County, NM had an employment rate of approximately 52%. Major industries include agriculture, forestry, and education, with about 22% employed in agriculture and 18% in education and health services. Common occupations are management (15%) and office/administrative (12%). Most residents (approximately 70%) commute outside the county for work, with an average commute time of 36 minutes. The largest employment centers outside Mora include Las Vegas, NM, and Santa Fe.

Mora County, NM, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $143,000 as of 2022. Renters occupy roughly 22% of housing, and median monthly rent is near $610. Housing primarily consists of single-family detached homes and mobile homes, reflecting rural living. Market trends indicate slow price growth but a stable market. Neighborhoods include Mora, Watrous, and Chacon, featuring spacious lots and scenic vistas. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.45% of assessed value—about $645 annually on a median-priced home—making homeownership relatively affordable in the region.