Considering moving to Albuquerque? Are you a current resident looking to put down roots in a different part of town? In either case, ABQ is a wonderful place to live, thanks in no small part to the city’s beautiful surrounding landscape, friendly people and abundance of interesting things to do. But still, you might be wondering what the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque is.
While Albuquerque has plenty of attractive spots to settle down in, there are some areas that truly stand out from the rest. Read on to learn more about the top five neighborhoods to live in Albuquerque.
- Discovering the best neighborhoods to live in Albuquerque
- Settle down in Bear Canyon
- Enjoy Huning Castle
- Relax in Ventana Ranch
- Grow and play in Taylor Ranch
- Experience it all in Nob Hill
- Finding the best neighborhoods to live in Albuquerque
Discovering the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque
Just like any other major American city, Albuquerque has distinct areas that have their own unique characteristics and charm. While families, singles and retirees can comfortably live in any area of the city, it’s a good idea to explore what each area has to offer and how they align with your lifestyle. Spend some time discovering the main characteristics of each area, including home prices, schools, and nearby entertainment options and restaurants. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Albuquerque.
Settle down in Bear Canyon
If a small, quiet community is what you’re after, Bear Canyon is an ideal place to make yourself at home. This area’s low crime rate, affordable housing and highly rated schools make the neighborhood especially attractive for families. Plenty of singles and retirees also call Bear Canyon their home.
The median list price in Bear Canyon hit $338,000 in 2020, which is higher than the rest of the city as a whole. Prices are rising sharply, though, so it’s best to buy as soon as possible to make the smartest investment.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Bear Canyon, especially for families. Head to Cliff’s Amusement Park for a fun afternoon riding the coasters and try your luck at some classic carnival games. Nearby Arroyo del Oso Park is a great spot for a picnic or a daily run. Speaking of getting active, there’s also a great hiking and biking trail nearby—the 3.4-mile Bear Canyon Arroyo Trail.
Foodies feel right at home in Bear Canyon, with plenty of tempting spots to check out no matter what type of food you’re in the mood for. At Scarpa’s, try the Green Chile Cheeseburger pizza if you’re in the mood for something cheesy and spicy. When you’re craving a great burger or sandwich, head to 5 Star Burgers to taste their delicious Bison Burger or BBQ Pork Sandwich. For the distinguished palate, head to Wine Dive and get the meat and cheese board paired with select wines. There’s something for every taste in Bear Canyon—you’ll never get hungry, and you’ll never be bored.
Enjoy Huning Castle
Near historic Old Town, you’ll find arguably the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque—Huning Castle. It’s a popular spot for young professionals, families and retirees alike, with plenty of things to do and see and easy access to downtown Albuquerque.
The median price for a home in Huning Castle trends a little higher than those in Bear Canyon, mainly due to the area’s proximity to downtown. The median purchase price here hit $525,000 in 2020, much higher than the average for the entire city.
Residents of Huning Castle have several great options in terms of activities and recreation. Tingley Beach is the place to be for fishing, boating, hiking and simply enjoying the sunny New Mexico weather. Families with kids will love easy access to the ABQ BioPark Zoo and the Rio Grande Pool—a beautiful spot to cool off on warm summer days.
When you get hungry, there’s no shortage of interesting dining options in Huning Castle. The Dog House Drive In is a beloved classic for the area—if you’re in the mood for a chili cheese dog and other classic American fare, this is the place to go. For a night on the town, head to Boxing Bear Brewing Co. Taproom, Sister Bar or many of the area’s other hotspots.
Relax in Ventana Ranch
If safety is your top priority, you’ll see why Ventana Ranch residents call this vibrant area the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque. It’s one of the safest areas of the city, making it an excellent option for growing families, young professionals and retirees alike. It’s also a great budget-friendly choice—median list price here is $253,000, on par with the city average.
This area is suburban—there’s a more relaxed pace of life in Ventana Ranch. There’s plenty of spots to take kids to the playground, enjoy a long walk with the dog and shop at some of your favorite stores. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of great alternatives to the standard chains you find in suburbia. Blake’s Lotaburger is the spot for unique, craft burgers. If homestyle barbecue is your thing, you’ll be visiting the Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill often. Relax and enjoy everything this charming area has to offer!
Grow and play in Taylor Ranch
Young professionals, families and retirees who live in Taylor Ranch feel like it’s the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque due to its affordability and safety. Many first-time homebuyers choose this area because the median home price is $201,386 as of 2020, much lower than the rest of the city. It’s also a very safe area, with low crime rates, top-rated schools and many options for fun and recreation.
Families and singles in Taylor Ranch don’t have to leave the area to find interesting things to do. Nature-lovers enjoy hiking the trails and taking in ancient carvings at Petroglyph National Monument. Take fun to new heights and get a great view of the city by booking a ride with any of the areas many hot air balloon companies. When you’re feeling hungry, head to any of the areas various restaurants, including delicious Italian joints and even fresh sushi bars. Whatever you’re hungry for, you won’t have trouble finding it here.
Experience it all in Nob Hill
If you’re a young professional looking for a neighborhood bounding with lively variety, Nob Hill is a great place to call home. This popular area in Albuquerque has a mix of affordable apartments, condos, townhomes and spacious ranch houses. Median value for homes here sits at $266,000, just above the overall average for the city.
While families who want to be close to all the action still call Nob Hill their home, this area is mostly a mix of young professionals, college students and young adults. There’s plenty to do here, but the popular nightlife spots and restaurants steal the show. Kelly’s Brew Pub and the Bosque Brewing Taproom are known for great craft cocktails and beer—they’re busy all week long. There’s great Mexican food and American classics in Nob Hill. This area, with its neon signs and kitschy connection to Route 66, is one of the quirkiest, most interesting places in the city.
Finding the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque
Take some time to get a feel for the distinct Albuquerque areas on this list. Each place has plenty to offer singles, families and retirees. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’re looking for a forever home, you’ll love your decision to establish yourself in any of these friendly, dynamic areas. When you’re ready to start the search for a home, Myers & Myers Real Estate Inc. is ready to help. Contact us today and explore the best neighborhood to live in Albuquerque.
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