County Crime & Safety

San Juan County, NM, has experienced fluctuating crime rates in recent years. In 2023, the county reported approximately 3,100 total crimes, with a violent crime rate of 5.4 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 30.8 per 1,000. While the overall rate is higher than the state average, law enforcement agencies have increased patrols and community outreach to improve safety. Reporting and response times have improved, but residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and utilize crime prevention programs offered by local authorities.

Education, Employment and Housing

San Juan County, NM has over 40 public schools, including 8 high schools, serving roughly 20,000 students. About 85% of adults have a high school diploma, while around 14% possess a bachelor's degree or higher. Average public school ratings fall between 4-6/10. Several schools offer career and technical education, dual credit, and GED programs for adults. The county invests in school safety with resource officers and security upgrades. Programs focus on Native American and bilingual education, preparing students for further education or workforce entry.

San Juan County, NM, had an unemployment rate of 5.0% as of March 2024. Major employment sectors include healthcare (15%), retail trade (11%), education (10%), and mining, quarrying, and oil & gas extraction (10%). The predominant occupation types are office and administrative support (13%), sales (10%), and construction/extraction (12%). About 83% of workers drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. Most employment is centered in Farmington, the county’s largest city and economic hub, with significant commuting within the county and some to neighboring McKinley and Rio Arriba counties.

San Juan County, NM, has a homeownership rate of about 71%, with median home values around $193,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $900 per month. The housing market has seen modest appreciation, with property values rising 4-5% annually recently. Single-family homes predominate, especially in neighborhoods like Farmington and Bloomfield. Taxes are moderate, with an average property tax rate of 0.56%. Communities offer a mix of suburban and semi-rural living, with some newer developments alongside older housing stock. Rental options are available, but the market is more oriented toward homeowners.

Demographics

As of 2022, San Juan County, NM, has a population of approximately 121,661. The median age is 36.6 years. About 49.6% are male and 50.4% female. Racially, 38% identify as Native American, 39% as White, 17% as Hispanic or Latino, 1% as Black or African American, and 2% as Asian. The county exhibits a diverse demographic mix, reflecting its significant Native American heritage.

Elections

San Juan County, NM has about 67,000 registered voters as of 2024, with approximately 54% Republican, 29% Democrat, and 17% other parties or unaffiliated. Elections include primary, general, and special elections, covering local, state, and federal races. In the 2022 general election, turnout was around 48%. Polling locations include Civic Center and local schools. Recent issues involve oil/gas regulation and water rights. The Bureau of Elections oversees administration. The county consistently votes Republican, with GOP candidates winning local offices by margins exceeding 20%. Voting information is managed at www.sjcounty.net.