New Mexico attracts new residents from all over, thanks to the beautiful landscape and 310 days of sun each year. The rich history, outdoor recreational activities and good quality of life are all reasons why people from all over are choosing to move to Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Welcome to Albuquerque, New Mexico’s biggest city and the “highest metropolitan city” in the United States. Albuquerque spans a large metropolitan area, including nearby areas of Rio Rancho, Bernadillo, Placitas, Corrales, Los Lunas, Belen, and Bosque Farms. In fact, the Albuquerque metropolitan area is the 60th largest metro area in the United States. There’s so much this city has to offer.
Here are 10 reasons you should move to Albuquerque.
1. The Cost of Living is Reasonable
One thing to know before moving to Albuquerque is the cost of living.
Out of the 388 metropolitan areas in the United States, Albuquerque ranks number 43. When you take into account the city is the 60th largest metropolitan area in the country, it’s easy to see the cost of living is reasonable in relation.
The cost of living in Albuquerque, New Mexico is 2.70% lower than the national average. On average, a one bedroom apartment’s rent is $739 monthly
2. There Are Four Seasons
Albuquerque is fortunate to have the sun shining an average of 310 days per year, even though there is distinct, four season weather. You won’t have to forgo winter or a beautiful summer in Albuquerque.
3. The Landscape of Albuquerque is Stunning
Living in this city means beautiful sunsets, stunning lights, and scenic landscaping. Albuquerque is hugged by the Sandia mountains while the Rio Grande flows through the city itself. Sandia Crest is the high point of the mountains east of the city. This location offers an incredible panoramic view of more than 11,000 square miles. Talk about a view!
You can take the 2.7 mile aerial tramway to Sandia Crest – it’s the longest aerial tramway in North America. While you’re there, you can snag a bite to eat at the peak or base of the mountain.
If you love outdoor recreation, you’ll be happy in Albuquerque thanks to the variety of open spaces; not to mention, the star-gazing potential. Albuquerque and New Mexico are known for great stargazing, thanks to the protected land of the state.
The architecture is distinct “New Mexico”, utilizing Adobe and pueblo-style homes everywhere. Beyond the architecture, there’s adobe everywhere. Adobe is an ancient building material, well suited to New Mexico’s arid climate. The material is used in old buildings, new buildings, and pretty much everywhere you could imagine. It might take some getting used to!
4. The City Is Covered With Parks
Albuquerque leads major United States cities in percentage of city covered by parks. Over 25% of the city is covered! Find a park near you with this easy park locating tool.
Petroglyph National Monument Park runs 17 miles alongside Albuquerque. Most of the petroglyphs were created between 1300 and 1600 AD. The images were mostly carved by Native Americans and Spanish settlers as the population in the area was increasing. The petroglyphs in the park have a deep spiritual and cultural meaning to natives of the area. You can visit the park to learn more about the petroglyphs, take scenic hikes, and even experience audio tours.
5. Native American Culture Influences Albuquerque Identity
The culture of Albuquerque is a unique blend of Mexican, Native American, and Spanish cultures.
New Mexico is home to 22 different Native American Indian tribes, including the Navajo, Jicarilla Apaches, and the Mescalero Apaches. There are 19 pueblos in the state, as well as three different reservations. Sandia Pueblo is just 14 miles north of Albuquerque! It’s safe to say Albuquerque is a great place to explore Native American culture and history.
The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is actually located in Albuquerque. It’s a great way to check out the culture and history of New Mexico’s 19 pueblos. You can head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to see traditional dance performances, art demonstrations, and experience special events year-round.
6. There’s No Shortage of Yearly Festivals and Cultural Events
The annual International Balloon Fiesta, held in early October, is a great example of the yearly festivals Albuquerque offers. Locals and visitors alike look forward to watching hundreds of hot air balloons take off! Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta is the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, too.
The New Mexico State Fair heads to Albuquerque every September. This State Fair is ranked number six in the country in terms of attendance. The events included in the fair range from Indian and Spanish art demonstrations to horse racing.
The San Felipe Fiesta is hosted in Old Town late spring every year. The fiesta is in remembrance of the San Felipe Church. This church was built in 1706 and used as a fortress to protect settlers from Indians. The San Felipe Fiesta is a fun way to celebrate Albuquerque with some of the best local entertainment while spending some time in Old Town.
7. Old Town Was Founded in 1706
While this is a tourist favorite, Old Town is part of Albuquerque’s unique history.
Old Town is the original site where Albuquerque was founded. Even though the town is centuries old, it still looks like the original town. Adobe buildings span 10 blocks of Old Town, surrounding the Old Town Plaza, reminiscent of the Spanish colonial influences that settled the area. Today, four flags fly over the Old Town Plaza and they include flags of: Spain, Mexico, the United States, and New Mexico.
There’s always something going on in Old Town. From holiday festivals to cultural events, there are so many ways to experience the history of Albuquerque here.
8. Albuquerque Has Different Neighborhood Hot Spots
This city has a bunch of different hot spots with their own unique identity. There’s Old Town, Downtown, Westside, the Balloon Fiesta Park… Albuquerque has a diverse identity.
Old Town
Downtown
Nob Hill
Midtown and University
Uptown
Eastside
Balloon Fiesta Park
North Valley, Los Ranchos, and Corrales
Westside
Barelas and South Valley
Indian Pueblos and Reservations
9. Breaking Bad is Set in Albuquerque
This may come as no surprise: Albuquerque is home to AMC’s series Breaking Bad. The series is both filmed and set in this city, which means there’s no shortage of locations to check out and tour. It’s not the only popular show to be filmed in this city, either. Marvel’s Avengers was also filmed in Albuquerque!
Breaking Bad is such a hit that it’s attracting international interest in the ABQ area. Even cast members say they’re “at home” here.
10. You’ll Never Leave Hungry
The cuisine of New Mexico ranges all different types of food, from Mexican to Native American. Albuquerque is known for a unique blend of cultural influences in the local cuisine. It’s not like Mexican food, it’s not like Tex-Mex; the food is strictly New Mexico.
The signature ingredients? Red and green chillies. In fact, it’s important to know which you prefer because you’ll be asked at restaurants, “Red or green?” Even local fast food joints get on board. McDonald’s offers a Green Chile Cheeseburger!
There are incredible international eats, too. You can’t miss Yanni’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill while you’re in the Nob Hill area.
Convinced? Come check out Albuquerque!
Are you falling in love with Albuquerque yet? There are over 10 neighborhoods of Albuquerque; one could be the perfect fit for you.
Myers & Myers Real Estate
A local real estate professional is one of the best sources of information about events and attractions in their area. With their local expertise, you’ll quickly get a hang of your new city!
If you’re interested in knowing more about Albuquerque real estate, or the neighborhoods around Albuquerque like Rio Rancho, don’t hesitate to reach out! Myers & Myers Real Estate is here to help. You can contact us as [email protected], call us at (505) 401-7500, or visit us online.
