Is New Mexico a Good Place to Live

Is New Mexico a good place to live
By
Mohit

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    The state of New Mexico also known as The Land Enchantment is a perfect place to live and retire. The diverse landscapes, the mountains, the desert, the river, and everything else present in the state add up to be a beautiful view so that you can call New Mexico your home. The stupendous scenery present here is a dream of every person who is an outdoor lover.

    While there are various fun outdoor activities for the visitors to perform among the forests, canyons, mesas, and rock formations. You will also enjoy the calm towns, bustling cities, delicious cuisines, rich culture, and interesting heritage sites. All these make the cities of New Mexico the best to live and visit.

    It is a highly desirable state with a population of about 2 million people living and working together in a strong-knit community. Are you thinking is New Mexico a good place to live in? Well, listed below are the top 11 places in the state where you can live freely and fulfill your lifestyle needs. 

    Is NM a rich state?

    According to the reports of Britannica.com, the state of New Mexico is a comparatively poor state as it ranks as one of the lowest in the country when it comes to per capita income. Half of the state’s economy is based on the service sector, while the remaining of it is centered on the extractive industries. 

    Is NM a better state to retire in?  

    New Mexico is a popular retirement destination, which attracts retirees due to its low cost of living, rich culture, warm climate, and many other amenities. These amenities include; the cost of living, the cost of healthcare, the median price of homes, the crime rate, and the people living in the New Mexican society. 

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    9 Benefits To Live in New Mexico

    Are you thinking is New mexico a better place to live in? Well, the answer to this is yes. As New Mexico is an enchanted place with about 2 million people living there. This state is one of the perfect places in the United States, to settle down and retire, Here you can spend the golden years of your life in some of the best places and do some amazing things.

    Is New Mexico a Good Place to Live

    So, before moving to the list of top 11 places to live in the state, you should be aware of some of the benefits to live in this, Land of Enchantment. 

    1. The state of New Mexico is a perfect blend of four different cultures; Native American, Mexican, Spanish, and Anglo.
    2. As a result of a blend of cultures, you will also find a varied combination of food and drinks in the state, that is both delicious and distinctive.
    3. The cost of living is quite reasonable in the state which also directly affects the diverse job market present here. The key industries where you will be able to find good high-paying jobs in the state are; defense, aerospace, energy, tourism, government, and agriculture. 
    4. New Mexico is also the home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely; Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Chaco Canyon National Historical Park, and Taos Pueblo. 
    5. The state is a wonderful recreation center and you can also find some amazing things to do in Carlsbad, New Mexico
    6. The architecture found in the state is quite mesmerizing and looks extremely pleasant to the eyes of the spectator. 
    7. Every New Mexican person is an artist in himself, from theatres to painting galleries and from world-class opera to exhibitions of hand-made products, the state has them all. 
    8. The state has an abundance of natural beauty. It has some of the best and unparalleled landscapes and hiking trails, where you can perform and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities. 
    9. The air of the state is clean. Albuquerque and Santa Fe are two cities in the state with the least air pollution in the nation. 

    Now, you know why is New Mexico a good place to live. Let’s move to the list of top 11 cities where you can happily and peacefully reside in the state. 

    11 Best Places To Live in New Mexico

    1. Los Alamos New Mexico

    Los Alamos is a town in New Mexico, that is not far from Santa Fe and nestled at the foot of Jemez Mountain and Pajarito Mountain range, with about 12,978 people living here. This town is an irresistible place to live in due to its surrounding mountains, parks, and forests, which offer plenty of outdoor recreation activities, such as; mountain biking, skiing, hiking, and camping.

    Los Alamos New Mexico
    Los Alamos New Mexico

    Not only this, but the town also has safe streets, a splendid school system, and good medical facilities, which make it altogether a better place to live in. Los Alamos is a peaceful town, that has an idealistic cost of living, a wealth of activities, and amenities that both tourists and locals can enjoy during their stay in the town.

    The median value of houses here is about $317,200. If you are looking for an affordable and safe place to live in New Mexico, then Los Alamos is the one. 

    Is Los Alamos still radioactive?

    The town of Los Alamos is known to be the birthplace of the world’s first atomic bomb ever. Thus, plutonium and some other radioactive particles are still there.

    Is Los Alamos still open?

    Yes, of course, you can go to visit Los Alamos through guided tours through the Manhattan Project NHP tour offered by Los Alamos National Lab, to visit the historical buildings.

    Can anyone go to Los Alamos?

    Yes, you can visit the town of Los Alamos, but through the tours offered by Manhattan Project NHP presented by Los Almos National Lab. These trips are conducted three times a year.

    Why is Los Alamos so rich?

    People living in Los Alamos are accidentally rich, as people majorly invest in public education. Apart from this, the Los Alamos National Laboratory has many high-paying jobs which pay an average salary of above $102,000.

    2. White Rock New Mexico

    Small towns like White Rock, define the beauty of the state in the true sense. The town has a rural feel and only about 6,000 people live here. White Rock is considered a safe and happy place, where you can cheerfully spend the golden days of your life.

    White Rock New Mexico
    White Rock New Mexico

    According to Niche.com, White Rock is the top place in New Mexico to raise a family, as it has some of the best public schools and higher education institutions. Although the cost of living in this place is not so high, the median value of homes is quite high and only 5% of the people living there can afford it.

    The median house value is about $335,500, whereas the median rent is $1,500. Thus, about 95% of the residents here live in rented apartments. 

    Is White Rock New Mexico a good place to live?

    If you are thinking where is a good place to live in New Mexico? Then, White Rock should be your definite answer. According to Niche.com, it is one of the best places to live in the state.

    What county is White Rock New Mexico?

    The town of White Rock is a part of Los Alamos County.

    3. Sandia Heights New Mexico

    The town of Sandia Heights is a suburb of Albuquerque and is extremely popular among commuters and local people. Located in Bernalillo County, this is one of the best places to live in the state. The residents here have a rural feel and only 4% of them live in their own homes as the median value of homes here is extremely high, i.e., $490,500.

    Sandia Heights New Mexico
    Sandia Heights New Mexico

    And about 96% of the people live in rented apartments as the median rent is about $1,345. Many residents of the state, chose Sandia Heights as their home as the people here have a conservative mindset and the public schools located here are highly rated.

    The provision of public transport is non-existent in this place, thus families living here have self-owned cars. As the median household income of households in Scandia Heights is about $114,464. Also, being in the neighborhood of Albuquerque, you might be wanting to know does it snow in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

    The answer, to this, is yes. The major snow months are from December to march, so don’t forget to take your skiing equipment and heavy jackets with you. 

    Is Sandia Heights New Mexico safe?

    Yes, the town of Sandia Heights is considered one of the safest places in New Mexico.

    What county is Sandia Heights in?

    Scandia Heights belong to Bernalillo County.

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    4. Eldorado at Santa Fe

    The town of Eldorado is a census-designated place, located in Santa Fe county. The town has a relaxed pace of life, and that is what attracts the retirees and people visiting here the most. The number of people living here is just 5,510, out of which 10% are children.

    Eldorado at Santa Fe
    Eldorado at Santa Fe

    Due, to this the town has 11 highly rated public schools which impart good quality education to children. The residents living here, have moderate political views, out of which 5% live in their own houses and 95% of them live in rented places. The median home value in Eldorado is $399,800 and the median rent amounts to $1,645.

    According to Niche.com, Eldorado comes under the list of top 10 suburbs to raise a family in New Mexico. 

    Is Eldorado at Santa Fe a nice place to live?

     Eldorado at Santa Fe is one of the most pleasant places to live in New Mexico during June, August, and September.

    What county is Eldorado at Santa Fe in?

    Eldorado is a census-designated suburb located in Santa Fe county.

    5. Corrales New Mexico

    The town of Corrales is considered one of the best places to live in the state, due to its geographical location, located between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, with the Rio Grande situated alongside. Due to the proximity of two major cities of the state, the people here enjoy a charming and calmer lifestyle without sacrificing their enjoyment.

    Corrales New Mexico
    Corrales New Mexico

    People living in Corrales have many shopping, dining, and entertainment options situated in neighboring cities. Individuals living here mostly survive on their agricultural income which is majorly possible due to the presence of the Rio Granade river that hydrates the barren & desert lands.

    Also, agriculture plays an extremely important role in the culture, economy, and identity of the place. As many wineries & farms are spread all over Corrales where plenty of community festivals and events take place. About 8,636 people live here forming a strong community, that lives together and enjoys several festivals together.

    The median house value and the median rent of the suburb are around $437,500 and $11,46 respectively. According to Niche.com, Corrales comes under the list of top 5 places having the best public schools in the state. The town is also rated as ‘B’ in terms of crime and safety. 

    Is Corrales a good place to live?

    Yes, of course, it is a great place to live in the state as it has all the big city amenities with a small-town feel.

    What county is Corrales from?

    The rural town of Corrales belongs to the Sandoval County of New Mexico.

    6. Mesilla New Mexico

    According to Niche.com, the town of Mesilla comes under the list of top 5 places to lie in the state. Located in Dona Ana County, the town has a cozy population of about 2,274 people. The people living here have a rural feel and about 29% of them live in self-owned houses.

    Mesilla New Mexico
    Mesilla New Mexico

    The median home value in Mesilla is $231,400, whereas the median rent of houses here is $746. Mesilla is also on the list of the best places where you can rent properties at affordable prices, much below the national average. This suburb is also considered the second best place for young professionals in New Mexico, to work and live.

    As this town also ranks as one of the safest places in the state to live. It is one of the great places to raise a family as there are some of the best and most highly-ranked public schools in the state.  

    Is Mesilla NM a good place to live?

    Mesilla, a suburb of Las Cruces in New Mexico is a great place to live and enjoy.

    Where is the Mesilla Valley?

    The Mesilla Valley is a natural geographic feature that was formed by repeated heavy spring floods of the Rio Grande river., and is located in Southern New Mexico.

    7. Rio Rancho New Mexico

    Rio Rancho, a suburb town of Albuquerque is home to about 97,976 people. With so many people residing in this area, the place has some excellent amenities and great infrastructure. The town also has a strong social scene because of the establishment of two great restaurants such as; Heaven dragon and Crow Cafe.

    Rio Rancho New Mexico
    Rio Rancho New Mexico

    It is a perfect place for families and young professionals to live as there are various parks, highly-ranked public schools, and excellent job opportunities. Thus, the median household income of people here is; $66,733.

    The median value of a house in Rio Rancho is about $200,800, whereas the price of median rent in the town is about $1,157. Also, the town is ranked as ‘C’ in terms of crime and safety. 

     Is Rio Rancho a good place to live in NM?

    Yes, of course, according to Niche.com, Rio Rancho situated in Sandoval County, is one of the most amazing places to spend time and live in New Mexico.

    Is Rio Rancho safer than Albuquerque?

    Rio Rancho is safer than Albuquerque according to Niche.com.

    What is the average income in Rio Rancho?

    The median household income of people living in Rio Rancho is $66,733.

    Is Rio Rancho a part of Albuquerque?

    Yes, Rio Rancho located in Sandoval County, is a part of the expansive metropolitan area of Albuquerque.

    8. Paradise Hills New Mexico  

    Paradise Hills, as the name says is paradise by nature. Not only because of the spectacular views of the place but also because the cost of living here reaches the skies. Located in the suburb of Bernalillo County, this place is one of the amazing spots to live and enjoy life during the golden years of life.

    Paradise Hills New Mexico
    Paradise Hills New Mexico

    The famous Pierdas Marcadas Canyon is also located nearby Paradise Hills, which gives people one more reason to visit this mesmerizing town. The town has about 4,918 people and gives a rural feel to the people living there. The median value of houses in Paradise Hills is about $197,400 and $1,215 is the median rent of the houses available in the town.

    Paradise Hills is ranked as the 9th best suburb to live in the state according to Niche.com. It is also considered an appropriate place to live and raise a family, as the place has plenty of job opportunities and good public schools. 

    Is Paradise Hills a good neighborhood?

    Yes, of course, the neighborhoods of Paradise Hills, include Albuquerque and Piedras Marcadas Canyon. These places in themselves are must-visit places on your trip to New Mexico.

    Is Paradise Hills NM safe?

    Paradise Hills is a safe place to live and raise a family. As, the place is a great area where there are parks, schools, and freeways all located nearby.

    What County is Paradise Hills NM?

    The town of Paradise Hills in New Mexico is a part of Bernalillo County.

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    9. Albuquerque in New Mexico

    Are you still thinking, is New Mexico a good place to live in? Then visit, Albuquerque, one of the largest cities in the state, which is home to about half a million people.

    This is a large desert city, where there are ample job opportunities, the cost of living is affordable, good public schools and educational institutions, the warm weather, delicious cuisines, and a lot more activities to perform and enjoy.

    Albuquerque in New Mexico
    Albuquerque in New Mexico

    Not only this, but also the city has a vibrant metropolis atmosphere, diverse and rich heritage and history, and a perfect blend of Native American & Spanish cultures. About 40% of the people living in the city live in a self-owned house whose median cost is maybe $204,100 and the remaining 60% of them live in rented apartments which costs about $889.

    Albuquerque is considered a less safe city compared to the neighboring suburbs.  

    Is Albuquerque a cheap place to live?

    Albuquerque is an affordable place to live in the state. The cost of living in this city is 4% lower than the national average.

    Is moving to Albuquerque a good idea?

    Moving to Albuquerque is a great idea, as the cost of living in the city is quite affordable and on the other hand, the median value of real estate here is also below the national average.

    10. Las Cruces in NM

    Las Cruces has been ranked as one of the best cities in the state of New Mexico. Located in the south center of the state, the city of Las Cruces is not far from Mexico and Texas. The 102,950 residents here enjoy mild winters and excellent outdoor activities, due to the presence of the Chihuan Dessert nearby.

    Las Cruces in NM
    Las Cruces in NM

    Not only this but healthcare and housing are also quite affordable here in this city. The city has a laidback lifestyle, where you can enjoy the phenomenal views of neighboring mountain ranges, hiking, biking, countless attractions & museums, plenty of highly-rated restaurants, and amazing nightlife.

    About 45% of the residents here live in self-owned properties and 55% of them live in rented places, as the cost of real estate in Las Cruces is quite affordable. The cost of houses here is $161,100, whereas you can get a property for rent for about $805.

    This is not a rich city as the median income of people here is just $45,140, but they still live extremely happy with their lives. 

    Is Las Cruces a good place to live?

    Las Cruces is a great city to live in as it boasts a thriving climate, great outdoor activities, good education & healthcare services, and various other amenities which makes the city a perfect place to live in.

    How far is Las Cruces from the Mexican border?

    The city of Las Cruces lies just 41 miles or 66 km away from the Mexico border.

    Is Las Cruces worth visiting?

    The city of Las Cruces in New Mexico is worth visiting a place as the place has various attractions that you can enjoy, such as; Old Mesilla Village, Ranch Heritage Museum, Tonuco Mountain, New Mexico Farm, the Robledo Mountains, and the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument.

    11. Santa Fe New Mexico

    Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico is one of the largest cities in the state, situated in the rolling foothills of the mountain range of Sangre De Cristo. This relatively artistic city is home to about 84,418 people, where 37% of them live in self-owned houses costing an average of $290,800.

    Santa Fe New Mexico
    Santa Fe New Mexico

    The remaining 63% of them may rent an apartment for about $1,125 and live there. Not only the city is diverse in population, but also terms of economic standing and ethnic background. Santa Fe also has a rich history, artistic background, and impressive cultural diversity.

    The cost of living in this city is more expensive than in Albuquerque and also has a slow job climate. But slowly and gradually the economy of Santa Fe is progressing The people living here love the architecture of the city, the art galleries, the souvenir shops, restaurants, the varied cultural events & festivals hosted, and its progressive nature. 

    Is Santa Fe New Mexico worth visiting?

    Yes, of course, the city is worth the visit due to its interesting tourist attractions, cultural diversity, and extraordinary eye-pleasing art scenes.

    What is so great about Santa Fe New Mexico?

    The city of Santa Fe is world-famous for its rich Native American culture, historic architecture, and wonderful art scenes.

    Is Santa Fe New Mexico a good place to live?

    It is a great place to live in, as the city offers small-town peaceful vibes, gorgeous weather, and astounding natural beauty.

    Is New Mexico A Good Place To Live FAQs

    Are people in New Mexico wealthy?

    No, according to the reports released by the U.S. Census Bureau, the state of New Mexico has the second lowest median household income annually in the nation, i.e., $25,991. That concludes to New Mexico is a poor state and so are the people living there.

    Is it safe to live in New Mexico?

    New Mexico is not among the safest state in the nation. According to the research conducted by SafeWise.com, there are about 4 out of 10 residents in the state who worry about their everyday safety in the state. And only 3 out of 10 people are such who feel safe calling New Mexico their home.

    Albuquerque, Carlsbad, and Farmington are some of the safest places in the state. 

    What is the dirtiest area in New Mexico?

    The dirtiest area of New Mexico in terms of air pollution is Valencia, located near Albuquerque Metropolitan. The air quality index of this place is 132 and is considered the most populated area of the state.

    Conclusion

    Are you still thinking should you move to New Mexico or not? Well, moving in and retiring in this state, will be one of the best decisions in life. As the state has pretty great advantages and experiences to offer to retirees. Such as; affordable cost of living, great & pleasant weather, and a strong community.

    Although the crime rate here is high compared to the neighboring states, there are still some of the safe cities in the state where you can settle down and enjoy all the benefits that New Mexico has to offer you.

    Now as we have told you every detail and cleared your confusion, is New Mexico a good place to live? So, without any further ado, start planning to spend the golden days of your life in this Land of Enchantment.

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