Summary
New Mexico is one of the most geographically diverse states in the United States. This southern state boasts vibrant metropolitan cities, charming rural villages, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, among its many attractions.
Did you know that New Mexico has an official state tree? The Pinyon Pine is omnipresent throughout the state, serving as a significant symbol. The pinyon nut is a delicious and nutritious addition to salads, enhancing both taste and texture.
However, let’s focus on the essential aspects—New Mexico is an exceptionally desirable state for residence. With a diverse and industrious population of approximately 2 million, it is also home to a robust Latino community.
When selecting a place to live, there are several factors to consider, including crime rates, quality of public schools, and median home prices.
Gathering all this information can be daunting, but we have compiled it for you.
Below are our 15 best places to live in New Mexico:
1. Los Alamos
Source: Ron Cogswell / Flickr
For skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking enthusiasts, Los Alamos is the premier location in New Mexico, nestled beneath the Pajarito Mountain in the Jemez Mountain Range.
This community, consisting of around 11,000 residents, values its outdoor lifestyle and amenities that resemble those found in urban areas.
What is there not to like? According to locals, very little. With a median household income approaching six figures, residents of Los Alamos are industrious and cherish their lifestyle.
Entertainment & Activities
The following are some of the best attractions in Los Alamos:
- Bradbury Science Museum
- Bandelier National Monument
- Fuller Lodge Art Center
- Manhattan Project National Historical Park
- Los Alamos History Museum
- Ashley Pond
- Pajarito Brewpub and Grill
- Los Alamos Little Theater
2. White Rock
Source: Chyeburashka at English Wikipedia / Wikimedia
The charm of New Mexico is exemplified in small towns like White Rock. With over 6,000 residents, this suburb is characterized by its safety and community spirit.
Recognized as an optimal place for family life in New Mexico, the living costs here do reflect its desirability, with homes typically priced around the national average.
Entertainment & Activities
The following are some of the best attractions in White Rock:
- White Rock Visitor Center
- Overlook Park
- White Rock Overlook
- Diablo Canyon Recreation Area
- Otowi Bridge
3. Sandia Heights
Source: www.youtube.com
Sandia Heights, a suburb of Albuquerque, is particularly favored by commuters. Although public transportation is limited, most residents, earning six-figure salaries, own multiple vehicles, making the daily commute manageable.
Housing a population of over 3,000, Sandia Heights boasts an array of 35 exceptional public schools, appealing to families.
The median rent is over $1,000, with home values hovering around half a million dollars, indicating a community primarily composed of homeowners.
Entertainment & Activities
Some of the best attractions in Sandia Heights include:
- Sandia Peak Tramway
- Turquoise Museum
- La Luz Trail
- Tinkertown Museum
- Sandia Peak Ski Area
- Sandia Crest
- Balloon Fiesta Park
- Casa Rondena Winery
4. Eldorado at Santa Fe
Source: amadeustx / shutterstock
Located in Santa Fe County, Eldorado is a census-designated community renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, particularly favored by retirees.
Children represent only 10% of the population exceeding 6,000, yet Eldorado offers eleven public schools, providing a solid foundation for youth education.
Properties are infrequently available, enhancing their desirability. A typical three-bedroom, two-bathroom family home commands a price around the national average, reflecting its desirable location.
Entertainment & Activities
Some noteworthy activities in Santa Fe include:
- Santa Fe Plaza
- Meow Wolf Sante Fe
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Museum of International Folk Art
- Santa Fe Farmers Market
- New Mexico Museum of Art
5. Corrales
Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
Situated in Sandoval County, Corrales thrives on agricultural production. The community’s success is largely attributed to its proximity to the Rio Grande River, vital for sustaining its arid environment.
Low crime rates provide peace of mind for both long-standing and new residents, fostered by a community-oriented culture.
The local education system excels, with numerous public schools offering A-rated academic programs, beneficial for college aspirations.
Entertainment & Activities
Prominent attractions in Corrales include:
- Corrales Growers Market
- Acequia Vineyards & Winery
- Corrales Winery
- Red Horse Riding Company
- A Park Above
- Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co
6. Mesilla
Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
This small town in Doña Ana County narrowly misses a spot in the top five best places to live in New Mexico. Its cozy population of over 2,000 residents is generally private.
For individuals seeking rental properties, Mesilla offers monthly rents below the national average. With rents typically under $1,000 and median home values at approximately the national average, it presents affordable living options.
Ranked as the second safest place to reside in New Mexico, crime is notably rare in this suburb of Las Cruces.
Entertainment & Activities
Visitors to Mesilla can explore:
- Mesilla Plaza
- Fountain Theatre
- Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park
- Gadsden Museum
- Farmers & Crafts Market of Las Cruces
7. Rio Rancho
Source: Bernie Goldbach / Flickr
Rio Rancho houses over 91,000 inhabitants, representing nearly 5% of New Mexico’s total population. Due to its large demographic, significant investment has been directed toward infrastructure and amenities.
Dining options like Indigo Crow Cafe and Heaven Dragon are locally favored, contributing to a developing social scene.
For families seeking quality education, Rio Rancho boasts an array of outstanding schools from elementary through high school.
Entertainment & Activities
Notable attractions in Rio Rancho include:
- Elevate Trampoline Park
- Willow Creek Trailhead and Open Space
- Rio Rancho Premiere 14
- Tinkertown Museum
- Rio Rancho Events Center
- Haynes Community Center and Park
- Rio Rancho Aquatic Center
- Vista Hills Park
8. Paradise Hills
Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
Paradise Hills lives up to its name, though the living costs here surpass those in locations like Mesilla. Nevertheless, residents take great satisfaction in this Bernalillo County suburb.
The proximity to Piedras Marcadas Canyon enhances Paradise Hills’ allure. This tight-knit community of over 4,000 residents is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Entertainment & Activities
Prominent attractions in Paradise Hills include:
- Private Balloon Flights
- La Luz Trail
- New Mexico Steam Locomotive Railroad Historical Society
- Routes Bicycle Tours
- Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum
- Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
- Albuquerque Museum
9. Albuquerque
Source: Joseph Sohm / shutterstock
Although not the state capital, Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico, with a population of half a million, located in the High Desert region.
As one would expect from a city of its size, employment opportunities abound, and the cost of living remains reasonable. However, like many urban areas, Albuquerque faces challenges with crime rates.
In terms of housing, Albuquerque presents affordable options, with average property prices below the national average, and monthly rent often under $1,000.
Entertainment & Activities
Visitors to Albuquerque can enjoy:
- Albuquerque Museum
- ABQ BioPark Zoo
- Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
- Tingley Beach
- Cliff’s Amusement Park
- Kimo Theatre
10. Los Ranchos de Albuquerque
Source: frank drewett / Flickr
This northern suburb of Albuquerque, locally known as Los Ranchos, offers a distinct charm within Bernalillo County.
In contrast to Albuquerque’s central districts, home prices in Los Ranchos tend to be higher, above the national average. Correspondingly, the median household income hovers around $50,000, reflecting the community’s affluence and education levels, as 21% of residents hold a master’s degree or higher.
The homes here are delightful, characterized by spacious interiors and minimal renovation needs, making them appealing to prospective buyers.
Entertainment & Activities
Popular activities in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque include:
- Campo at Los Pobloanos
- Casa Rondena Winery
- Vernon’s Speakeasy
- Big Jim Farms
- Balloon Fiesta Park
11. Las Cruces
Source: dherrera_96 / Flickr
Las Cruces features a balanced mix of homeowners and renters, fostering a diverse community. Much like Albuquerque, the housing market is accessible, with rents below $1,000 per month and home prices averaging under $200,000.
Proximity to attractions like Prehistoric Trackways National Monument and the Robledo Mountains makes Las Cruces appealing. While the area’s average income is just below $50,000, the community thrives with happy residents.
Entertainment & Activities
Key attractions in Las Cruces include:
- Mesilla Plaza
- White Sands National Park
- Dripping Springs Natural Area
- New Mexico State University
- Plaza de Las Cruces
- Las Cruces Railroad Museum
12. North Valley
Source: welcomehomeabq.com
Situated north of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, North Valley is home to over 11,000 residents. While some properties may be expensive, many affordable family homes are available for under $200,000.
This neighborhood is favored for family living, supported by 42 public schools, ensuring parents can feel confident about their children’s future.
Entertainment & Activities
Residents and visitors will find enjoyable activities in North Valley, including:
- ABQ BioPark Aquarium
- A Park Above
- Petroglyph National Monument
- Cliff’s Amusement Park
- Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
- Albuquerque Museum
13. Santa Fe
Source: Frank Romeo / shutterstock
Santa Fe is a dynamic city known for its artistic culture, housing over 83,000 residents. While this city can be costly compared to Albuquerque, its lively atmosphere and rich cultural offerings attract many.
Median home values in Santa Fe are significantly higher, making it essential for prospective residents to secure employment prior to relocating.
Entertainment & Activities
Visitors to Santa Fe can explore:
- Santa Fe Plaza
- Museum of International Folk Art
- San Miguel Chapel
- New Mexico Museum of Art
- Palace of the Governors History Museum
- Santa Fe Botanical Garden
- Neda Matteccui Art Gallery
14. Edgewood
Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock
Located in Santa Fe County, the town of Edgewood features a growing residential population exceeding 3,000, with boundaries extending into Bernalillo and Torrance Counties.
Despite its rural atmosphere, Edgewood is evolving, with enhanced facilities and infrastructure accompanying its expansion, benefitting residents significantly.
Recognized as one of New Mexico’s safer locales, Edgewood’s low crime rate results primarily from a unified community spirit.
Entertainment & Activities
In Edgewood, visitors can enjoy:
- Wildlife West Nature Park
- Tinkertown Museum
- Rattlesnake Museum & Gift Shop
- Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
- Hinkle Fun Center Amusement Park
15. La Huerta
Source: wikipedia
Previously known as Carlsbad North, La Huerta has a close-knit population of over 1,000 residents, who are relatively affluent, with an average annual income nearing $90,000.
Though real estate tends to be more expensive compared to other New Mexico areas, median rents remain below $1,000, providing options for potential renters.
Entertainment & Activities
Entertainments in La Huerta encompass:
- Tenacatita Beach
- Restaurante Martin
- Lucky Bull Grill
