Carlsbad

Carlsbad, New Mexico Overview

Carlsbad ranks #3 of 20 cities in New Mexico, earning a C+ grade with a composite score of 50.6/100. The city stands out in Affordability (75/100) and Growth (60/100), placing it among the state’s strongest performers across the metrics we track.

Income & Employment in Carlsbad

Carlsbad’s median household income of $78,277 is 36% above the New Mexico median of $57,488, and its 3.3% unemployment rate undercuts the state’s 4%. That economic strength is drawing residents — the population grew 1.6% recently.

Safety in Carlsbad

At 562.5 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, Carlsbad sits meaningfully below the New Mexico average of 717 — a 27% lower gap. The property crime rate is 2630.5 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Carlsbad

Despite New Mexico’s generally moderate costs (index: 90), Carlsbad’s cost of living index of 111.5 places it above the national average. The median home value is $187,900. Median monthly rent is $1,206. Renters spend 18.5% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline.

Health & Wellness in Carlsbad

The adult obesity rate in Carlsbad is 39.5%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. The diabetes prevalence rate is 11.4%. Residents report an average of 17.2 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. New Mexico ranks #42 nationally for overall health.

Education & Schools in Carlsbad

The high school graduation rate in Carlsbad is 71%, below the national average and a challenge for the community. The student-teacher ratio is 18.2:1. Per-pupil spending is $13,304. The city has 12 public schools serving 7,097 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.

Climate in Carlsbad

Carlsbad enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average of 61.7°F. Summers average 84.7°F. Winters average 47.1°F. The area is arid, receiving only 14 inches of precipitation annually.

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