Elections
Quay County, New Mexico, has about 6,700 registered voters as of 2024, with registration split primarily between Democrats (approximately 45%), Republicans (39%), and others/independents (16%). The county votes in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries and general elections. In 2020, Donald Trump won Quay County with 67% of the vote. There are around 10 polling locations, including Tucumcari, Logan, and San Jon. Key issues include agriculture, rural development, and education. Elections are administered by the Quay County Clerk, guided by state election laws. Both main parties are active locally.
County Crime & Safety
Quay County, NM, has a crime rate above the national average, with an overall crime rate of approximately 47 per 1,000 residents. Property crime is more prevalent, accounting for about 86% of reported incidents, including burglary and theft, while violent crime—such as assault and robbery—makes up about 14%. In 2022, there were 310 total reported crimes, with a safety rating lower than the state average. Law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting, contributing to a clearance rate of roughly 28%, slightly below national levels.
Demographics
As of 2022, Quay County, NM, has a population of approximately 8,005. The median age is 44.7 years. About 50.7% are male and 49.3% female. The racial composition is 78.4% White, 3.3% Black or African American, 1.5% Native American, 0.7% Asian, and 13.1% from other races; 47.6% identify as Hispanic or Latino (of any race).
Education, Employment and Housing
Quay County, NM has 10 public schools, including 2 high schools. The high school graduation rate is around 83%, while only 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings are modest, typically between 4-6 out of 10. The county offers some adult education and vocational programs through Mesalands Community College. School safety ratings are average, with few major incidents reported. Educational programs focus on both academics and technical skills, supporting local industries.
As of 2022, Quay County, NM, had an employment rate of about 44.6%, with 2,759 employed persons. The top industries were Health Care and Social Assistance (20.2%), Retail Trade (13.3%), and Accommodation and Food Services (12.7%). Most workers were in office and administrative support, management, and sales occupations. The median commute time was 15.2 minutes, with 84% driving alone to work. Tucumcari is the primary employment hub within the county.
Quay County, NM, has a median home value of about $89,000 and a homeownership rate around 73%. Median gross rent is approximately $653 monthly. The housing market trends stable, with modest value increases in recent years. Common housing types include single-family homes and some multi-units, mostly in neighborhoods like Tucumcari, the county’s largest city. Property taxes are relatively low, with a median annual rate near $450. The area features affordable costs, older housing stock, and a quiet, rural lifestyle, appealing to retirees and families seeking value.
Popular names
- Gene Cox
- Justin Garcia
- Bonnie Garcia
- Brittany Kam
- James Erbes
- Mark Preciado
- Robert Garcia
- Theresa Martinez
- Albert Pacheco
- Ambrose Gutierrez
- Anthony Rodriguez
- Bucky Stone
- Chris Rivera
- Chris Sandoval
- David Garcia
- David Smith
- Diana Calbert
- Jacklyn Mills
- James Elek
- Jeanette Torres
- Jessica Hyslop
- Jessica Rigdon
- Joe Garcia
- John Brown
- John Russell
- Linda Hall
- Michael Martinez
- Olivia Cordova
- Robert Jolly
- Samantha Montano
- Steven Freeman
- Thomas Evans
- Virginia Marquez
- Adam Smith
- Adella Vargas
- Alyssa Gonzales
- Andrew Angel
- Andrew Apodaca
- Angelica Gonzales
- Angella Apodaca
- Anthony Kent
- Antonio Norton
- Ashley Benavidez
- Barbara Prieto
- Benito Sanchez
- Betty Coslett
- Betty Martinez
- Billy Otero
- Brady Whitehouse
- Brittany Sandrik
- Brittany Whitney
- Carmelita Chavez
- Christopher Chavez
- Clara Martinez
- Claude Quintana
- Conrad Salazar
- Cynthia Benavidez
- Dace Lafferty
- Darius Martinez
- Deanna Duke