Torrance County, located in central New Mexico, is part of the Albuquerque Metropolitan Statistical Area. It was established in 1903 and named after Francis J. Torrance, a railroad executive. The county seat is Estancia, and other notable towns include Moriarty and Mountainair. The economy largely relies on agriculture, wind energy, and transportation. Torrance County is known for its rural landscapes, including parts of the Cibola National Forest and the Abo Ruins of the Salinas Pueblo Missions. It offers a quiet, small-town atmosphere with rich Native American and pioneer history. The county has a semi-arid climate with distinct seasonal variations.

People & Demographics

As of the most recent data, Torrance County, New Mexico, has a population of approximately 15,500 people. The racial composition is primarily White (about 70%), with Hispanic or Latino residents making up around 40% of the population. The county has a median household income of roughly $36,000, and approximately 23% of the population lives below the poverty line. The population is spread across various age groups, with a median age of about 43 years. Educational attainment shows that around 80% of residents have a high school diploma or higher.

Torrance County Public Records

To access Torrance County, NM public records, visit the County Clerk’s office in person, or explore their official website. You can request various records, including property records, marriage licenses, voter registrations, and court documents. Some records may be available online, while others may require a formal request or a visit to the office. Ensure you have necessary identification and be prepared to pay any applicable fees for copies. It’s advisable to contact the County Clerk’s office directly for specific procedures and availability of records.

Housing in Torrance County

As of 2023, Torrance County, NM has a median home price of approximately $160,000. Over the past year, home values have increased by around 5%. The median rent is roughly $950 per month. The housing market in Torrance County is relatively affordable compared to national standards. The area features a mix of single-family homes, ranches, and mobile homes. The homeownership rate is about 72%, indicating a preference for ownership over renting. Inventory is somewhat limited, contributing to moderate competition among buyers. Property taxes and the overall cost of living are relatively low compared to other regions.

How Torrance County Votes

As of the most recent information, Torrance County, New Mexico, participates in various elections for federal, state, and local offices. For federal elections, residents vote for Congressional representatives. At the state level, they vote for the governor, state legislators, and other officials. Local elections include positions such as county commissioners, sheriff, and school board members.

For specific recent elections, such as the 2022 midterms, Torrance County voters participated in electing representatives for New Mexico's 1st and 2nd congressional districts depending on the precinct. Key candidates typically include members from the major parties (Democratic and Republican), with the possibility of minor party or independent candidates.

Voter turnout and candidate lists can vary by election cycle. Detailed results and participation statistics can be obtained from the Torrance County Clerk’s Office or the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website.

Income & Poverty

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Torrance County, New Mexico is approximately $35,000. This figure is lower than both the national average and the state average. For comparison, the national average household income is around $70,000, while New Mexico’s state average is approximately $47,000.

Below is a table comparing these income statistics:

Location Average Household Income
Torrance County $35,000
New Mexico State $47,000
United States $70,000

This data highlights Torrance County's income as significantly below both state and national averages, reflecting potential economic challenges in the region. Differences in income can be attributed to factors like local economic conditions, employment opportunities, and educational attainment levels.

Torrance County Crime Rates

As of the most recent data, Torrance County, New Mexico reports various crime statistics that reflect the area's public safety environment. The overall crime rate, which encompasses both violent and property crimes, is lower compared to national averages.

Here is a simplified statistics table for different types of crimes in Torrance County:

Crime Type Reported Incidents (Annual)
Violent Crimes 80
Property Crimes 300
Burglaries 100
Larceny-Theft 170
Motor Vehicle Theft 30

In recent years, efforts to enhance law enforcement and community policing have contributed to maintaining relatively stable crime rates. The focus remains on reducing crimes through prevention programs and community engagement initiatives.

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