2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Waynesville, NC vs Ruidoso, NM

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Highlights
Are people in Ruidoso older or younger than people in Waynesville?
- The Median Age in Ruidoso is 3.0 years older than in Waynesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ruidoso or Waynesville?
- Ruidoso housing costs are 11.4% less expensive than Waynesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ruidoso or Waynesville?
- The average commute for residents of Ruidoso is 4.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Waynesville.

Things to do in Waynesville?
Waynesville is a small town located in Haywood county, North Carolina. With a population of around 9,500 people, it is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers easy access to outdoor recreation attractions such as Lake Junaluska and Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

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.

 Waynesville, NCRuidoso, NMUnited States
 Population  Unlock7,636329,725,481
 Median Income$41,131  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock50.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$319,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Waynesville    4 Reviews

The post below was written a little less than 10 years ago and only a few months prior to my move to Waynesville. Anyone who moves to any city should do research before  More

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Over 17 years ago

Waynesville is a small town trying to keep up with the big dogs across the mountains. It puts on shows and have festivals downtown but it is not good enough. I have  More

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For those of us who weren't reared there, Waynesville, NC lends itself best to being a small-town retirement community. The "Gateway to the Smokies" is a blissfully  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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