Mora County, NM
4,169 residents · 1,926 sq mi · 2.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Mora County
Mora County is a county in the U.S. state of New Mexico. As of the 2020 census, its population was 4,189. Its county seat is the census-designated place (CDP) Mora. The county has another CDP, Watrous, a village, Wagon Mound, and 12 smaller unincorporated settlements. Mora became a formal county in the US, in what was then the New Mexico Territory, on February 1, 1860. Ecclesiastically, the county is within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Santa Fe. County population peaked at about 14,000 circa 1920, declining to about 4,000 to 5,000 since the 1970s; the 2018 estimate was 4,506.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a low population density of 2.2 people per square mile, which may appeal to those seeking solitude. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.5°F with 18.7 inches of rain per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b crops. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates limited water availability, which can be a significant constraint for self-sufficient living and agriculture.
This county faces notable risks, particularly from wildfires, which are ranked 96 by FEMA, indicating a high hazard level. Landslides and drought also pose risks, with ranks of 76 and 63 respectively. The median home price is relatively affordable at $105,600, but with a median household income of $40,231, economic challenges may arise. Additionally, the area has low broadband access, with only 31% of households subscribed, which may limit remote work opportunities.
This location may suit homesteaders who prioritize isolation and can manage the risks associated with natural hazards. Those comfortable with rural living and lower economic activity may thrive here. However, individuals seeking urban conveniences or reliable internet access might find this area less appealing. Water scarcity could be a dealbreaker for those reliant on extensive agricultural practices, while the low cost of living may be a hidden gem for others.