Rio Arriba County

Rio Arriba County, located in northern New Mexico, is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. It encompasses parts of the Jicarilla Apache Reservation and Carson National Forest. The county seat is Tierra Amarilla, with Española being its largest city. Rio Arriba is historically significant, with deep Native American and Hispanic roots, reflected in its local arts, traditions, and festivals. The area offers diverse outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Economically, the county relies on agriculture, energy production, and tourism. Rio Arriba faces challenges such as poverty and access to healthcare but remains culturally vibrant.

As of the latest estimates, Rio Arriba County, NM, has a population of approximately 38,000 people. The racial composition is diverse, with about 71% identifying as Hispanic or Latino, 20% as White (non-Hispanic), and 7% as Native American. The county's median age is around 43 years. Approximately 18% of the population lives below the poverty line. The median household income is roughly $40,000. Educational attainment varies, with about 80% having graduated high school and around 20% holding a bachelor's degree or higher.

To obtain public records from Rio Arriba County, NM, visit the county clerk's office or their official website. Requests can be made in person, by mail, or online. Public records may include property records, marriage licenses, court documents, and voter registration. For online access, use the New Mexico Sunshine Portal or the county's online tools. Fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Ensure compliance with the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act when requesting information.

As of the latest data, Rio Arriba County, NM, has a median home value of around $225,000. The housing market has seen a modest annual appreciation rate of approximately 4%. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $800 per month. Homeownership is relatively high, with around 70% of residents owning their homes. The county features a mix of single-family homes and rural properties. Residential construction remains limited, maintaining a steady supply-demand balance. Please verify these figures with a local real estate source, as market conditions can change.

In the most recent elections for Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, positions such as the County Commission, Sheriff, Assessor, Clerk, and Treasurer were contested. The County Commission races usually feature candidates from the two main political parties, Democratic and Republican. For example, in one recent election cycle, Democratic candidate Marina Otero ran against Republican candidate Juan Martinez for one of the commissioner seats.

The Sheriff's race often draws significant attention, with candidates like James Lujan (incumbent) facing challengers. The Assessor position, responsible for property valuations, also tends to be competitive, with candidates such as incumbent Paul Salazar running against contenders like Gina Martinez.

Voter turnout in Rio Arriba County generally reflects state averages, with thousands of voters participating. In presidential election years, turnout tends to be higher, reaching as much as 15,000-20,000 voters. For the most accurate and updated information, checking with the Rio Arriba County Clerk's office or their official website is recommended.

As of the latest data available, Rio Arriba County, NM, has a median household income of approximately $40,791. This figure is significantly lower than both the national median household income, which is around $68,703, and the New Mexico state median, which is approximately $51,945.

The lower median income in Rio Arriba County can be attributed to a variety of factors, including limited economic opportunities and a reliance on industries with traditionally lower wages.

Here's a comparison table:

These figures highlight the economic disparities at the county level and underscore the challenges faced by residents in terms of income relative to other regions. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving the economic well-being of the county's population.

As of the latest available data, Rio Arriba County in New Mexico experiences various crime rates that are of concern to the community and law enforcement. The county has seen fluctuations in both violent and property crimes over recent years. Key statistics indicate that crime rates in Rio Arriba are higher than national averages in certain categories.

These values highlight the prevalence of property crimes over violent crimes, with larceny-theft being particularly common. The county's efforts focus on community programs and law enforcement initiatives to address these issues. Note that crime rates can vary by year and these numbers are estimates based on recent trends.