Carlsbad, NM

New Mexico · Eddy County

Carlsbad is a mid-size city in New Mexico with a population of 31,813. Residents earn $78,277 per year, which is 4% above the national average.

3.2 /5.0

B Good

31,813 Population 1,005/sq mi density

$78,277 Median Income $37,755 per capita

$187,900 Home Value $242,280 Zillow

$1,206 Median Rent 24.3% income on rent

64°F Avg Temperature 330 sunny days/yr

510 Violent Crime/100K 4,376 property/100K

Overall

3.2 / 5.0

Good overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education

Economy

4.3 / 5.0

$78,277 median income, 2.7% unemployment

A+

Affordability

5.0 / 5.0

$187,900 home value, $1,206/mo rent

Safety

1.0 / 5.0

510 violent crimes/100K (34% above avg)

C+

Education

2.6 / 5.0

20.3% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Carlsbad, NM

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile

Median Income $78,277

4% higher than US avg

Home Value $187,900

33% lower than US avg

Violent Crime 510/100K

34% higher than US avg

Bachelor's+ 20.3%

40% lower than US avg

Median Rent $1,206

4% higher than US avg

Obesity Rate 39.8%

24% higher than US avg

Unemployment 2.7%

25% lower than US avg

Poverty Rate 8.0%

35% lower than US avg

How Carlsbad Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population31,813

Median Age37.4 yrs

Density1,005/mi²

Male / Female50% / 50%

Largest GroupWhite 59%

Veterans6.8%

Economy

Median Income$78,277

Per Capita$37,755

Unemployment2.7%

Poverty8.0%

County GDP$11,319M

Commute20 min

Housing

A+

Home Value$187,900

Rent$1,206

Ownership71.9%

Zillow$242,280

Housing Units13,714

Rent Burden24.3%

Crime

Violent510/100K

Property4,376/100K

Murder7.1/100K

Assault360/100K

Burglary934/100K

Health

Obesity39.8%

Uninsured17.5%

Smoking13.8%

Depression23.3%

Heart Disease5.8%

Climate

Avg Temp64°F (18°C)

AQI37 (Good)

Rain12.6 in/yr

Sunny Days330/yr

Elevation3,123 ft (952 m)

Education

C+

Bachelor's+20.3%

High School+82.1%

Graduate+7.1%

School Score4.85

Community

2024 VoteR 77% / D 21%

Commute20 min

Broadband84.1%

EV Stations7

Libraries2

Is Carlsbad a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Carlsbad receives an overall livability score of 3.2 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, abundant sunshine, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, a high uninsured rate, high obesity rates. Carlsbad offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Carlsbad is $78,277, roughly in line with the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 2.7%. 8.0% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 20 minutes.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Carlsbad is $187,900, 33% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $1,206 per month. At just 2.4x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.

Safety & Crime

The violent crime rate of 510 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 4,376 per 100,000, 123% above the national average.

Education

20.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 82.1% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.9/10.

Climate & Weather

Carlsbad enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F. Winters average 44°F in January while summers reach 84°F in July. With 330 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 12.6 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 37.

Carlsbad has a population of 31,813 with a density of 1,005 people per square mile, spread across 31.8 square miles. The median age is 37.4 years, 4% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 49.7% female and 50.3% male. The city is predominantly White (58.7%), with 2.3% Hispanic, 2.7% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 76.3% of residents, while 23.7% speak Spanish. 6.8% of the population are veterans. 16.9% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 90.4% have health insurance coverage.

Population

31,813

Total Population

1,005

People / sq mi

37.4yrs

Median Age

4% below US avg

31.8mi²

Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 50.3%

Female 49.7%

Race & Ethnicity

Carlsbad vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 76.3%

3% below US avg

Spanish 23.7%

77% above US avg

Social Characteristics

Carlsbad vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Carlsbad is $78,277, which is 4% above the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $37,755. The average weekly wage is $1,470. The unemployment rate is 2.7% (below the 3.6% US average). 8.0% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 1,976 business establishments, including 159 restaurants. The cost of living index is 92.2, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 20 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 6.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Carlsbad vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income	$78,277
	4% above US avg
Per Capita Income	$37,755
Avg Weekly Wage	$1,470
IRS Avg AGI	$84,135
Gini Index	0.431 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment	2.7%
	25% below US avg
Poverty Rate	8.0%
	35% below US avg
Establishments (County)	1,976
County GDP	$11,319M

Business (County)

Restaurants	159
Healthcare	118
Retail	195
Manufacturing	38

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)	$3,282
	6% below US avg
Cost of Living	92.20 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate	1.75%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time	20.1 min
Drive Alone	80.8%
Public Transit	0.5%
Work from Home	6.0%

Walkability

The median home value in Carlsbad is $187,900, 33% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $242,280, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 0% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $1,206 (4% above the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $927 for a one-bedroom to $1,129 for a two-bedroom apartment. 71.9% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 13,714 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1969. The average annual property tax is $3,282. 24.3% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, well within the affordable range.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median	$187,900
	33% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI	$242,280
Median List Price	$285,000

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Median List Price	$285,000
$/Sq Ft	$197
Homes Sold	29
Sale-to-List Ratio	0.0%
Price Drops	16.2%
Inventory	99

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent	$1,206
	4% above US avg
Zillow Rent (ZORI)	$1,653
Rent Burden	24.3%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio	$828
1 Bedroom	$927
2 Bedrooms	$1,129
3 Bedrooms	$1,496
4 Bedrooms	$1,758

Ownership & Property

Homeownership	71.9%
Owner-Occupied	71.9%
Renter-Occupied	28.1%
Housing Units	13,714
Median Year Built	1969

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)	$3,282
	6% below US avg
Effective Rate	1.75%

In Carlsbad, 39.8% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.8% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.8% of residents. 30.7% have high blood pressure. 13.8% are current smokers. 15.9% report binge drinking. 26.8% are physically inactive. 23.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 17.4% experience frequent mental distress. 17.5% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,384. The dentist ratio is 1:3,020. 73.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 7.7 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Carlsbad vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity	39.8%
	24% above US avg
Diabetes	10.8%
Heart Disease	5.8%
High Blood Pressure	30.7%
Asthma	9.9%
COPD	5.7%
Cancer	6.1%
Stroke	3.1%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking	13.8%
	1% below US avg
Binge Drinking	15.9%
Physical Inactivity	26.8%
Depression	23.3%
Mental Distress	17.4%
Physical Distress	14.6%
Short Sleep	40.3%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate	90.4%
Uninsured	17.5%
	103% above US avg
Primary Care	1:3,384
Dentists	1:3,020
Mental Health	1:662
Checkup Rate	65.0%
Dental Visits	57.3%
Premature Death	12,798/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment	7.7/10
Exercise Access	73.6%
Healthcare Facilities	118

Carlsbad has a violent crime rate of 510 per 100,000 residents, 34% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 360.2 per 100,000, robbery at 46.4, rape at 96.3. The murder rate is 7.1 per 100,000 (above the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 4,376 per 100,000, 123% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 2,971, burglary at 934, vehicle theft at 471 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 15 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Carlsbad receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Carlsbad vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent	510.0/100K
	34% above US avg
Murder	7.1/100K
	13% above US avg
Rape	96.3/100K
Robbery	46.4/100K
Assault	360.2/100K

Property Crime

Total Property	4,376.2/100K
	123% above US avg
Burglary	934.5/100K
Theft	2,971.0/100K
Vehicle Theft	470.8/100K
Arson	28.5/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	15
Traffic Accidents	14
Avg Accident Severity	2.9 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety Grade	F
Safety Score	1.0 / 5.0

View full crime details →

Carlsbad enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winters average 44°F in January while summers reach 84°F in July. The area gets 330 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 12.6 inches (drier than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 2.7 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 37. The city sits at an elevation of 3,123 feet.

Temperature

44°F Jan (7°C) 84°F Jul (29°C)

Annual Average	64.4°F
	19% above US avg
January Average	44°F (7°C)
July Average	84°F (29°C)
Sunny Days	330 days/yr

Geography

Elevation	3,123 ft (952 m)
Area	31.8 sq mi (82.3 km²)
Population Density	1,005/sq mi
Coordinates	32.4008°N, 104.2410°W
Timezone	America/Denver
County	Eddy County County
Nearest Airport	Lea County Regional (HOB) 63 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 12.6"

67% below US avg

Snowfall 2.7"

Wettest Month (Sep) 2.80"

Driest Month (Mar) 0.28"

Air Quality

AQI Median	37.0
Rating	Good

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Ozone (O₃)	0.0526 ppm
NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide)	9.6 ppb

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall Risk	Relatively Moderate
Risk Score	83.7 / 100
Social Vulnerability	56.9 / 100
Community Resilience	12.6 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado	Relatively Low
Hurricane	Very Low
Earthquake	Very Low
Wildfire	Relatively Low
Flood	Relatively Moderate
Hail	Relatively Moderate
Strong Wind	Relatively Moderate
Heat Wave	Relatively Low
Winter Weather	Relatively High
Lightning	Relatively Moderate
Ice Storm	Relatively High
Drought	Relatively Moderate
Cold Wave	Relatively Low
Landslide	Very Low
Avalanche	Very Low

Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

2,053 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M5.4. Most recent: M2.6 on Aug 30, 2025.

May 4, 2025	59 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M5.4	86 km
Feb 15, 2025	53 km NW of Toyah, Texas	M5.0	83 km
Mar 26, 2020	41 km W of Mentone, Texas	M5.0	78 km
Jul 21, 2022	55 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.9	82 km
Feb 18, 2025	52 km SSW of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.7	81 km
Jun 1, 2022	53 km SSW of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.6	82 km
Mar 25, 2022	56 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.6	83 km
Jan 2, 1992	12 km SSE of Eunice, New Mexico	M4.6	107 km
Aug 11, 2022	54 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.5	82 km
Mar 17, 2021	57 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.5	84 km
Sep 1, 2022	38 km WSW of Mentone, Texas	M4.4	90 km
Jun 25, 2021	56 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.4	83 km
Jul 28, 2021	54 km NW of Toyah, Texas	M4.3	88 km
Mar 5, 2022	57 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.3	83 km
Jun 1, 2022	western Texas	M4.3	92 km
Jun 6, 2022	52 km SSW of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.3	81 km
Jul 23, 2024	55 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.2	82 km
Feb 13, 2022	55 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.2	82 km
Feb 22, 2023	western Texas	M4.2	82 km
Mar 2, 2025	51 km S of Whites City, New Mexico	M4.2	76 km

Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Tornado History

123 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF2. Total: 39 injuries.

Date	Rating	Distance	Fatalities
Mar 12, 2019	EF2	69 km	0
Mar 12, 2019	EF2	29 km	0
Apr 30, 1999	EF2	91 km	0
Apr 30, 1999	EF2	88 km	0
Jun 7, 1992	EF2	2 km	0
May 22, 1992	EF2	85 km	0
Jun 6, 1991	EF2	88 km	0
May 31, 1991	EF2	11 km	0
Jun 12, 1982	EF2	55 km	0
Apr 30, 1976	EF2	27 km	0
Aug 11, 1974	EF2	95 km	0
Oct 27, 1998	EF1	70 km	0
Oct 2, 1995	EF1	70 km	0
May 26, 1995	EF1	82 km	0
Jun 10, 1989	EF1	58 km	0
May 11, 1989	EF1	45 km	0
Apr 16, 1988	EF1	89 km	0
Jul 5, 1981	EF1	2 km	0
May 20, 1979	EF1	44 km	0
Jun 12, 1974	EF1	91 km	0

Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Wildfire History

20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: LAST CHANCE (53,486 ac, 2011).

Year	Name	Acres	Distance
2011	LAST CHANCE	53,486	42 km
2008	ROCKY	48,019	61 km
2011	LOOP	29,771	25 km
2008	STILES COMPLEX	27,841	98 km
2009	FOUR MILE	27,609	81 km
2011	MARTIN 2	26,841	93 km
2009	238	24,831	88 km
1990	BIG	24,768	57 km
2011	CROOKED CREEK	19,206	98 km
2006	BUCKEYE I	19,027	94 km
2011	ACREY	18,720	59 km
2010	CAVE WF INCIDENTS	17,648	44 km
2009	PICACHO	16,411	97 km
2008	UNNAMED	16,027	90 km
2016	COYOTE	14,517	77 km
1993	JALTWO	13,332	84 km
1998	BURLESON	11,014	64 km
1994	UNNAMED	11,008	99 km
2010	CUTOFF	10,433	75 km
2008	483 FIRE	10,306	99 km

Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month	Avg Temperature	Precipitation	Summary
January	44°F (7°C)	0.4 in
February	48°F (9°C)	0.5 in
March	55°F (13°C)	0.3 in	Driest
April	63°F (17°C)	0.5 in
May	71°F (22°C)	1.2 in
June	79°F (26°C)	1.6 in
July	84°F (29°C)	1.7 in	Warmest
August	79°F (26°C)	2.1 in
September	73°F (23°C)	2.8 in	Wettest
October	63°F (17°C)	1.2 in
November	51°F (11°C)	0.6 in
December	44°F (7°C)	0.6 in	Coldest

Carlsbad has a seasonal temperature swing of 40°F / from 44°F in December to 84°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 13.5 inches, with September being the wettest month (2.8") and March the driest (0.3").

View full weather details →

Carlsbad is located in Eddy County. It is classified as Nonmetro / Urban 20K+, a smaller urban community. 20.3% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 40% below the national average of 33.7%. 82.1% have completed high school. 7.1% hold a graduate or professional degree (below the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 4.9 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 77.3% of the vote, a 55.9-point margin. 84.1% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 7 EV charging stations. There are 2 public libraries serving the community. 118 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 80.8% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 77.3%

D 21.4%

Winner: Republican by 55.9 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	15
Traffic Accidents	14
Avg Accident Severity	2.9 / 4.0

F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+	20.3%
	40% below US avg
High School+	82.1%
Graduate Degree+	7.1%
School Test Score	4.85

C+ Education Grade (2.6/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 5	Nonmetro / Urban 20K+
Population Density	1,005/sq mi
Total Area	31.8 sq mi
County	Eddy County County

Services

Broadband Access	84.1%
Avg Download Speed	41.3 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed	6.2 Mbps
Max Download Speed	1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations	7
Alt Fuel Stations	8
Public Libraries	2
Healthcare Facilities	118
Restaurants	159
Retail Stores	195

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute	20.1 min
Drive Alone	80.8%
Public Transit	0.5%
Work from Home	6.0%

Average costs for common services in Carlsbad. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care)	$231 ($138–$369)
Specialist Visit	$323 ($184–$507)
Urgent Care Visit	$184 ($92–$323)
Emergency Room Visit	$2,028 ($738–$4,610)
Dental Cleaning	$120 ($69–$184)
Dental Filling	$231 ($138–$369)

View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional)	$41 ($23–$69)
Oil Change (Synthetic)	$69 ($46–$111)
Brake Pad Replacement	$277 ($138–$461)
Tire Rotation	$37 ($18–$69)
New Tires (Set of 4)	$553 ($369–$922)
Battery Replacement	$184 ($92–$323)

View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour)	$92 ($55–$138)
Electrician (Per Hour)	$83 ($46–$129)
HVAC Repair	$369 ($138–$738)
HVAC System Install	$6,454 ($3,688–$11,064)
Roof Repair	$922 ($369–$1,844)
Roof Replacement	$8,298 ($5,071–$13,830)

View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested)	$1,383 ($461–$3,227)
Divorce (Contested)	$13,830 ($4,610–$27,660)
DUI Defense	$4,610 ($1,844–$9,220)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7)	$1,383 ($738–$2,766)
Will Preparation	$461 ($184–$922)
Trust Preparation	$2,305 ($922–$4,610)

View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut	$23 ($14–$41)
Women's Haircut	$51 ($28–$92)
Hair Coloring (Full)	$138 ($69–$231)
Manicure	$23 ($14–$41)
Pedicure	$37 ($23–$60)
Massage (1 Hour)	$74 ($46–$120)

View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon)	$3.78 ($2.77–$5.07)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen)	$3.23 ($2.31–$4.61)
Loaf of Bread	$3.50 ($2.31–$5.07)
Chicken Breast (per lb)	$4.15 ($2.77–$5.99)
Ground Beef (per lb)	$5.07 ($3.69–$6.92)
Rice (per lb)	$0.92 ($0.55–$1.66)

View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly)	$129 ($74–$231)
Natural Gas (Monthly)	$65 ($28–$138)
Water/Sewer (Monthly)	$65 ($37–$111)
Internet (Monthly)	$65 ($37–$92)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly)	$60 ($28–$92)
Cable TV (Monthly)	$78 ($46–$138)

View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown)	$184 ($69–$461)
Car Insurance (Annual)	$1,844 ($1,106–$3,227)
Bus Pass (Monthly)	$65 ($28–$120)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride)	$14 ($7.38–$23)
Car Registration (Annual)	$92 ($28–$231)
Driver's License Renewal	$28 ($14–$69)

View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly)	$1,106 ($553–$2,305)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly)	$922 ($461–$1,844)
After-School Care (Monthly)	$369 ($184–$645)
Tutoring (Per Hour)	$46 ($23–$92)
SAT/ACT Prep Course	$922 ($369–$2,305)
Private School (K-12, Annual)	$11,525 ($4,610–$27,660)

View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup)	$55 ($28–$92)
Dog Vaccination (Annual)	$92 ($46–$184)
Dog Grooming	$55 ($28–$92)
Pet Boarding (Per Night)	$37 ($18–$69)
Dog Spay/Neuter	$277 ($138–$461)
Cat Spay/Neuter	$184 ($92–$369)

View all 9 services

Top Industries in Eddy County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry	Jobs	Establishments	Avg Annual Pay	Location Quotient
Mining & Oil/Gas	6,741	288	$109,698	55.35
Retail Trade	3,478	188	$38,820	1.08
Construction	3,402	189	$82,166	2.01
Health Care & Social Assistance	2,767	149	$52,169	0.60
Accommodation & Food Services	2,453	158	$28,476	0.84
Administrative & Waste Services	1,704	87	$100,612	0.90
Transportation & Warehousing	1,413	96	$79,839	1.04
Manufacturing	1,194	41	$105,839	0.45
Other Services	1,043	132	$66,715	1.08
Professional & Technical Services	736	137	$79,528	0.33
Wholesale Trade	705	97	$92,673	0.56
Real Estate	687	76	$82,710	1.37
Finance & Insurance	518	72	$75,261	0.40
Utilities	484	23	$109,361	3.95
Agriculture & Forestry	353	41	$55,495	1.35
Information & Technology	198	19	$67,872	0.33
Arts & Entertainment	166	14	$27,364	0.31
Educational Services	116	12	$44,406	0.17
Management of Companies	101	10	$95,011	0.19

Colleges & Universities in Carlsbad

Institution	Type	Enrollment	Acceptance	In-State Tuition	Out-of-State
Southeast New Mexico College	Public · Associate	2,475	—	$1,968	$4,008

Hospitals in Carlsbad

Hospital	Type	CMS Rating	Emergency	Phone
CARLSBAD MEDICAL CENTER	Acute Care Hospitals	2/5	Yes	(575) 887-4570

Schools in Carlsbad

13 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School	Level	Enrollment	Teachers	Student/Teacher
CARLSBAD HIGH	High	1,551	71	21.8:1
CARLSBAD INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL - PR LEYVA CAMPUS	Middle	817	35	23.3:1
DESERT WILLOW ELEMENTARY	Elementary	787	46	17.1:1
COTTONWOOD ELEMENTARY	Elementary	760	44	17.3:1
OCOTILLO ELEMENTARY	Elementary	708	39	18.2:1
CARLSBAD SIXTH GRADE ACADEMY - ALTA VISTA CAMPUS	Middle	705	37	19.1:1
SUNSET ELEMENTARY	Elementary	356	21	17.0:1
MONTERREY ELEMENTARY	Elementary	329	20	16.5:1
HILLCREST PRESCHOOL	—	257	17	15.1:1
JEFFERSON MONTESSORI (Charter)	Other	254	16	15.9:1
CARLSBAD EARLY COLLEGE HIGH	High	181	10	18.1:1
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER	Elementary	170	13	13.1:1
EDISON ELEMENTARY	Elementary	—	0	—

View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Carlsbad

0 stations within ~55 km.

Station	Genre	Quality

National Parks Near Carlsbad

5 national parks and monuments found near Carlsbad.

Park	Type	Fee
Bottomless Lakes State Park	State Park	Free
Brantley Lake State Park	State Park	Free
Carlsbad Caverns National Park	National Park	$1
Guadalupe Mountains National Park	National Park	$10
Living Desert State Park	State Park	Free

Trails Near Carlsbad

19 trails found near Carlsbad.

Trail	Miles	Surface	Hike	Bike	Horse
LAST CHANCE CANYON	6.0	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
WHITE OAKS	3.4	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
SITTING BULL FALLS	3.1	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
CAVE CANYON	2.7	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
MUNSON TRAIL	2.5	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
TELEPHONE RIDGE	2.4	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
USSERY	2.3	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
GILSON SPRING TRAIL	2.2	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
HORSE SPRING TRAIL	2.1	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
CCC TRAIL	1.6	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
PACK TRAIL	1.6	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
ANDERSON CANYON	1.3	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
YUCCA	1.1	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
JUNIPER WELLS TRAIL	1.1	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
HORSE CANYON	1.0	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
HORSE SPRING SPUR	0.9	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	Yes
OVERLOOK TRAIL	0.9	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	Yes	Yes
COTTONWOOD TRAIL	0.4	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	—
SBF SHORT CUT	0.3	NAT - NATIVE MATERIAL	Yes	—	—

Historical Trends — Carlsbad

Population and economic data over time (US Census / ACS estimates).

Population

Median Household Income

Year	Population	Median Income
2013	27,739	$46,339
2015	28,962	$51,097
2017	28,866	$62,932
2019	29,771	$69,193
2021	31,888	$70,745
2023	31,480	$78,277

Museums in Carlsbad

Name	Type	Address	Phone
CARLSBAD CAVERNS NATIONAL PARK	HISTORIC PRESERVATION		5752346717
CARLSBAD MUSEUM AND ART CENTER	ART MUSEUM		5058870276
CARLSBAD TOMORROW	SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM OR PLANETARIUM
LIVING DESERT ZOO & GARDENS STATE PARK	ZOO, AQUARIUM, OR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION	1504 MIEHLS DRIVE	5758875516
SOUTHEASTERN NEW MEXICO HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Libraries in Carlsbad

Name	Address	Staff	Annual Visits	Circulation	Collection	Programs
CARLSBAD PUBLIC LIBRARY	101 S. HALAGUENO	0.0	133,486

Farmers Markets in Carlsbad

Name	Address	Season	Hours	Organic	Website
Carlsbad Downtown Farmers' Market	102 N. Canal St.	06/21/2014 to 09/27/2014	Sat: 10:00 AM-2:00 PM;		Visit

Nursing Homes in Carlsbad

3 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).

Facility	Ownership	Beds	Residents	Overall	Health	Staffing	Quality	Phone
CARLSBAD MEDICAL CENTER - TCU 2430 WEST PIERCE STREET	For profit - Corporation	15	5	4/5	—	5/5	1/5	5758874396
LANDSUN HOMES, INC. 1900 WESTRIDGE ROAD	Non profit - Church related	105	71	3/5	—	4/5	1/5	5758872894
NORTHGATE UNIT OF LAKEVIEW CHRISTIAN HOME NURSING 1905 WEST PIERCE ST	Non profit - Other	112	66	2/5	—	5/5	2/5	5758853161

Pharmacies in Carlsbad

5 pharmacies and drugstores.

Pharmacy	Address	Phone
ALBERTSONS	808 NORTH CANAL STREET	575-887-5085
LA TIENDA PHARMACY	1301 SOUTH CANAL STREET	575-628-0637
SOUTHWEST PHARMACY	2402 WEST PIERCE STREET	575-887-6611
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER - 868	2401 SOUTH CANAL STREET	575-885-1029
WALGREENS - 7930	1401 WEST PIERCE STREET	575-887-0572

EV Charging Stations in Carlsbad

Name	Address	Network	Level 2	Connectors	Access
McDonald's	327 S Canal St	Non-Networked	1	J1772	public
NPS IMRO: Carlsbad Caverns National Park Maintenance Yard	15 Reeftop Cir	Non-Networked		NEMA1450	private
Tate Branch Carlsbad	1044 N Canal St	Non-Networked	1	J1772	public

Cell Towers in Carlsbad

Address	Structure Type	Height (ft)
Mile Marker 5 North Relief Route	TOWER	152
Mile Marker 5 North Relief Route	TOWER	152
42-2 El Lobo Road (109137)	GTOWER	91
42-2 El Lobo Road (109137)	GTOWER	91
(White City) 10 Rocky Mountain Road	LTOWER	60
(White City) 10 Rocky Mountain Road	LTOWER	60
SANDS DRIVE (109119)	LTOWER	59
SANDS DRIVE (109119)	LTOWER	59
25 Higby Hole Road	TOWER	50
25 Higby Hole Road	TOWER	50
2400 Union Street (122024)	LTOWER	47
2400 Union Street (122024)	LTOWER	47

Fire Stations in Carlsbad

Name	Address	Type	Phone
Carlsbad Fire Department	401 S Halagueno ST	Career	575-885-3125
Joel Volunteer Fire Department	1022 Haston RD	Volunteer	505-885-4966
La Huerta Volunteer Fire Department	1724 Muscatel AVE	Volunteer	505-887-6353
Queen Volunteer Fire Department	3664 Queen HWY	Volunteer	505-981-2498
Waste Isolation Pilot Project (WIPP)	34 Louis Whitlock RD	Career	575-234-8498
White's City Fire Department	PO Box 128	Volunteer	505-785-2219

Power Plants Near Carlsbad

Name	Type	Primary Fuel	Capacity (MW)	Status
CARLSBAD	NATURAL GAS FIRED COMBUSTION TURBINE	221112	-104.2	RE
SPS5 HOPI	SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC	221114	-104.2	OP

Bridges in Carlsbad

Type	Kind	Year Built	Length (ft)	Daily Traffic	Condition
Slab	Concrete continuous	1956	170	28,635	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1956	481	28,635	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1941	403	14,287	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	1969	435	14,287	F
Slab	Concrete	2015	37	13,140	G
Culvert	Concrete	2014	148	13,140	G
Slab	Concrete	1955	34	9,291	F
Culvert	Concrete	2018	33	8,298	G
Slab	Concrete	1957	37	7,879	F
Slab	Concrete	1957	34	5,889	G
Slab	Concrete	1979	43	5,889	F
Culvert	Concrete	1950	54	5,819	G
Culvert	Concrete	1941	38	5,819	G
Culvert	Concrete	1931	23	5,819	G
Culvert	Concrete	1950	32	3,845	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1995	512	3,712	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	2009	510	3,712	F
Culvert	Concrete	2009	80	3,712	F
Culvert	Concrete	1938	67	3,712	G

Correctional Facilities in Carlsbad

Name	Address	Type	Population	Capacity	Status
EDDY COUNTY DETENTION CENTER	201 N MAIN	COUNTY	-999	301	OPEN

Airports Near Carlsbad

10 airports within the area.

Airport	IATA	Type
Cavern City Air Terminal	CNM	Medium Airport
2x4 Ranch Airport	—	Small Airport
Artesia Municipal Airport	ATS	Small Airport
Buffalo Grass Airport	—	Small Airport
Champion Ranch Airport	—	Small Airport
Devil Dusters Airport	—	Small Airport
Guadalupe Intermediate Field	—	Small Airport
Lake Tolliver Airport	—	Small Airport
Seven Rivers Airport	—	Small Airport
Triangle Ranch Private Airport	—	Small Airport

Police Stations in Carlsbad

4 police stations.

Station	Address	Phone
Carlsbad Police Department	602 West Mermod Street
Carlsbad Police Department - Substation South	4202 National Parks Highway
Eddy County Sheriff's Office	1502 Corrales Road
New Mexico State Police

Grocery Stores in Carlsbad

13 grocery stores.

Store	Type	Address
Allsups 102404	Convenience Store	4412 National Parks Hwy
Allsups 190	Convenience Store	1010 S Canal St
Allsups 201	Convenience Store	2302 W Texas St
Allsups 219	Convenience Store	920 W Mermod St
Allsups 269	Convenience Store	2301 W Lea St
DOLLAR GENERAL 10246	Other	2103 S Canal St
Dollar General 21747	Other	2113 W Lea St
DOLLARTREE 9974	Other	609 S Canyon St
Family Dollar 2746	Other	901 W Mermod St
LA TIENDA THRIFTWAY	Super Store	1301 S Canal St
Lakeside Meats Inc.	Grocery Store	206 South Main Street
Roadrunner Express 1	Convenience Store	106 W Greene St
Walmart 868	Super Store	2401 S Canal St

Post Offices in Carlsbad

2 post offices.

Post Office	Address
Carlsbad Post Office	204 West Shaw Street
Whites City Post Office	23 Carlsbad Cavern Highway

Treatment Centers in Carlsbad

3 treatment centers.

Center	Type	Phone
Carlsbad LifeHouse Inc - Villa de Esperanza	Substance Abuse	575-885-1689
Presbyterian Medical Services - Carlsbad Family Health Center BH	Both	575-885-4836
Presbyterian Medical Services - School Based Health Center	Substance Abuse	575-234-3319

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Near Carlsbad

1 UNESCO sites.

Site	Category	Year
Carlsbad Caverns National Park	Natural	1995

Churches & Religious Organizations in Carlsbad

39 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

Name	Address
APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST	1309 W TANSILL ST
ASHWORTH MINISTRIES	702 LAKESIDE DR
BLODGETT STREET BAPTIST CHURCH OF CARLSBAD NM	1500 W BLODGETT ST
CALVARY ASSEMBLY OF GOD	2107 W CHURCH ST
CARLSBAD BIBLE CHURCH	4105 NATL PKS HWY
CARLSBAD CHURCH STREET CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE	2401 W CHURCH ST
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS	1213 CEDAR DR
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS	1002 DE BACA ST
CAVERN BAPTIST CHURCH CARLSBAD NM	PO BOX 3108
CAVERN CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST	PO BOX 1941
CENTRAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH	305 N OAK ST
CENTRAL LUZON MINISTRIES	1612 WESTRIDGE RD
CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH	2601 CARVER ST
CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY BIBLE PLACE	509 N 11TH ST
EMMANUEL GOSPEL CHURCH	PO BOX 746
FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD	1502 W MERMOD ST
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CARLSBAD	PO BOX 489
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF OTIS	2428 BANNISTER RD
FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH	502 S GUADALUPE ST
GARDEN STREET BAPTIST CHURCH	PO BOX 568
GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH	PO BOX PP
HAPPY VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH CARLSBAD NM	PO BOX 40
HEALING WATERS MINISTRIES INC	PO BOX DD
HILLCREST BAPTIST CHURCH CARLSBAD NM	605 N 6TH ST
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH	901 N HALAGUENO ST
KEHILAT YESHUA	601 N OAK ST
KMJ MINISTRIES INC	1304 NORMANDY ST
LA HUERTA BAPTIST CHURCH OF CARLSBAD NM	109 VINEYARD LN
LIGHTHOUSE FREEWILL BAPTIST CHURCH	403 N 8TH ST
NEW SONG CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP	PO BOX 761
PARADISE RANCH	49 PARADISE RANCH RD
REFUGE APOSTOLIC ASSEMBLY INC	126 KIRCHER ST
SAN JOSE PARISH CARLSBAD INC	1002 DE BACA ST
SOUTHEASTERN NEW MEXICO JOURNEY ON FIRE COMMUNITY	416 ARABELLA LN
ST EDWARD PARISH INC	205 N GUADALUPE ST
ST PETER LUTHERAN CHURCH	1302 W PIERCE ST
STANDPIPE ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH	1701 STANDPIPE RD
TEMPLE BETH EL OF CARLSBAD	PO BOX 1866
WEST TEXAS AND NEW MEXICO CHRISTIAN CHURCH CAMP INC	56 CHURCH CAMP ROAD

Explore Near Carlsbad

UFO Sightings

Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database

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Mines

Active and inactive mining sites tracked by the Mine Safety and Health Administration

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Haunted Places

Locations with documented reports of paranormal activity and sightings

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Download Full City Report

Get a comprehensive, print-ready PDF with all data for Carlsbad.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Carlsbad

What is the population of Carlsbad?

Carlsbad has a population of 31,813 residents and is located in New Mexico. The population density is 1,005 people per square mile, spread across 31.8 square miles. The median age of residents is 37.4 years. The population is 49.7% female and 50.3% male.

Is Carlsbad expensive to live in?

Carlsbad is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 92.2 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $78,277, 4% above the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $187,900 (33% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $1,206 per month. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Carlsbad safe?

The violent crime rate in Carlsbad is 510 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 4,376 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Carlsbad receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Carlsbad?

Carlsbad enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winter temperatures average 44°F in January, while summers reach an average of 84°F in July. The area receives 330 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 12.6 inches, with 2.7 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 37.

How is the job market in Carlsbad?

The job market in Carlsbad is very strong, with unemployment at just 2.7% / well below the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,470. There are 1,976 business establishments in the area, including 159 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 20 minutes, and 6.0% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Carlsbad?

The median home value in Carlsbad is $187,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $242,280. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,206. Fair market rent is $927 for a 1-bedroom and $1,129 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 71.9%. The average annual property tax is $3,282.

How are the schools in Carlsbad?

Schools in Carlsbad have an average test score of 4.9 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 20.3% of adults in Carlsbad hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 82.1% have completed high school. 7.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Carlsbad?

The obesity rate in Carlsbad is 39.8% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 13.8% of adults are smokers. 26.8% are physically inactive. 23.3% of residents report depression. 17.5% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 73.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,384.

What is transportation like in Carlsbad?

The average commute in Carlsbad is 20 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 80.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 6.0% work from home.

What are the demographics of Carlsbad?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Carlsbad is 58.7% White, 2.7% Black or African American, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino. 76.3% of residents speak only English at home, while 23.7% speak Spanish. 6.8% of the population are military veterans. 16.9% of residents have a disability. 90.4% have health insurance coverage.

Nearby Cities

La Huerta, NM 1,673 pop · 3.5 mi Loving, NM 1,317 pop · 11.5 mi Atoka, NM 1,038 pop · 27.5 mi Artesia, NM 12,555 pop · 33.0 mi Dexter, NM 1,144 pop · 55.4 mi Eunice, NM 2,989 pop · 63.7 mi Lovington, NM 11,444 pop · 64.0 mi Jal, NM 2,069 pop · 64.5 mi Hobbs, NM 39,887 pop · 66.9 mi Roswell, NM 47,823 pop · 69.3 mi North Hobbs, NM 6,099 pop · 70.0 mi Kermit, TX 5,681 pop · 77.1 mi Wink, TX 1,328 pop · 77.7 mi Town of Pecos, TX 11,485 pop · 81.3 mi

Compare Carlsbad with another city:

Carlsbad, NM

Discover Carlsbad, NM

City Guide — Carlsbad

Overview 11/11

People 10/10

Economy 13/13

Housing 14/17

Health 25/26

Crime & Safety 11/12

Climate & Environment 17/19

Community 14/14

Cost of Services 2/3

Historical Trends 3/3

Geography 6/6

Places & Facilities 24/32

Explore (Map Features) 3/3

How Carlsbad Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Economy

Housing

Crime

Health

Climate

Education

Community

Is Carlsbad a Good Place to Live?

Economy & Jobs

Cost of Living & Housing

Safety & Crime

Education

Climate & Weather

Population

Gender Distribution

Race & Ethnicity

Carlsbad vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

Social Characteristics

Carlsbad vs U.S. Average

Income: Carlsbad vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Employment & Poverty

Business (County)

Tax & Cost of Living

Commute & Transportation

Walkability

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Rental Costs

HUD Fair Market Rent

Ownership & Property

Property Tax

Health Metrics: Carlsbad vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Behaviors & Mental Health

Healthcare Access

Food & Exercise

Crime Rates: Carlsbad vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Property Crime

Traffic Safety

Safety Score

Temperature

Geography

Precipitation & Snow

Air Quality

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Natural Hazard Risk

Hazard Breakdown

Earthquake History

Tornado History

Wildfire History

Monthly Weather

2024 Presidential Election (County)

Safety & Disasters

Education

Area & Infrastructure

Services