Ruidoso has a subtropical highland climate with moderate temperature ranges and year-round precipitation. Precipitation is bi-modal, falling in the summer as rain and in the winter as snow. However, snowfall levels vary widely. The population of Ruidoso is approximately 2,700, and it is a growing community.
The percentage of residents living below the poverty line in Ruidoso is 12.2%, lower than the national average of 12.8%. The largest demographic living below the poverty line is males aged 25-34. Second in line are Females aged 35-44. The third largest group is males aged six to eleven years.
Ruidoso City is a mountain resort town located in the Sierra Blanca mountain range, which merges with the Sacramento Mountains to the south. The town is close to several ski resorts, including Ski Apache, which is owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe. It also has a casino and hotel, as well as a golf course. It is the largest city in Lincoln County and serves as a regional economic hub.
The city's past is colorful. For years, Ruidoso was a wild and raucous place to live. The Spanish name, "Ruidoso", refers to the noisy creek that ran through the city. At one point, the town was so raucous, residents would spit on the ground to win a foot race worth $10,000. The Central Bar & Grill also hosted roulette and dice games and Clara Bow appeared in person. In addition, the Miller Homestead was a ranch where ranchers matched the fastest horses for a $50,000 prize.