2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Elephant Butte, NM vs Ruidoso, NM

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Highlights
Are people in Ruidoso older or younger than people in Elephant Butte?
- The Median Age in Ruidoso is 18.0 years younger than in Elephant Butte.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ruidoso or Elephant Butte?
- Ruidoso housing costs are 50.6% more expensive than Elephant Butte housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ruidoso or Elephant Butte?
- The average commute for residents of Ruidoso is 0.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Elephant Butte.

Things to do in Elephant Butte?
Living in Elephant Butte, NM is a unique experience. Located on the south end of New Mexico's Rio Grande River Valley, it is a peaceful desert town with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions. The area offers stunning desert scenery, great fishing opportunities, hiking trails, and plenty of water sports. The people are friendly and the cost of living is quite affordable. Whether you're looking for a leisurely weekend away from it all or an adventurous outdoor escape, Elephant Butte has something for everyone. Enjoy the solitude of a peaceful desert town combined with an array of activities that make this area such a special place to visit!

Things to do in Ruidoso?
Ruidoso, NM is a small town nestled in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico. It's home to a friendly community of people who all enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, whether that's hiking, biking, fishing, or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas. Life here is laid back and relaxed—a place where you can truly savor life's simple pleasures. With its abundance of activities, picturesque scenery and warm hospitality, Ruidoso is a great choice for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

 Elephant Butte, NMRuidoso, NMUnited States
 Population  Unlock7,636329,725,481
 Median Income$49,746  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock50.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$187,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.67  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Elephant Butte    1 Reviews

Over 18 years ago

Hot, dry summers, cool winters - housing here is more occupied than what appears on the site. Neighborhoods are middle class and then the unoccupied housing are weekend  More

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Reviews for Ruidoso    12 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

Best place in NM to live , unless you like crowds, traffic, crime, and concrete. Plenty of jobs and min wage is now close to $12/hr. Housing is a little pricey but  More

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Over 3 years ago

I love Ruidoso, or "noisy river". I have always visited but now i live here. Was my first choice if I ever moved. I am so glad I left El Paso, was getting way to big  More

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I’ve lived in this town for nine years and loved it. The weather is by far the best thing about this town. Just don’t be a “rude Texan,“ and you will be fine. Try not to  More

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