Roosevelt County offers building opportunities in Southeast, though some factors need consideration.
📊52/100AcreScore
💰$1KLand $/acre
🏠$130KHome Value
👥18,500Population
📈+-1.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊8%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Eastern PlainsClimateZone 7a
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Roosevelt County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Roosevelt County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check New Mexico requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Roosevelt County Building Department
Portales, NM
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Moderate flood risk. 8% of county land is in FEMA flood zones. Most buildable parcels are outside hazard areas, but always verify your specific site.
8%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $1,200 per acre make Roosevelt County one of the most budget-friendly options in New Mexico.
$1K
Median $/acre
$130K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.0083%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Roosevelt County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Roosevelt County sits in the heart of Southeast. Portales is 0 min away. New Mexico has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $1,200/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population18,500
10-Year Growth-1.5%
County SeatPortales
State Income TaxYes
ClimateEastern Plains (Zone 7a)
How Close Is Everything?
Portales0 min
Portales Municipal Airport5 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Roosevelt County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Portales. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Roosevelt County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Roosevelt County?
Check with the Roosevelt County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Roosevelt County?
Median price is approximately $1,200 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Roosevelt County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Roosevelt County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Roosevelt County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.0083%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Roosevelt County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In New Mexico, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.