Top 5 Reasons People Love Living in Albuquerque

Albuquerque rests at about 5,000 feet above sea level, quite an adjustment if you’re moving here from a lower-altitude area. The city is bisected horizontally by the frown-shaped I-40 and vertically by the winding Rio Grande River. Its Native American heritage, evident in much of the city’s architecture, is renewed by frequent dances and demonstrations. In the context of the United States, Albuquerque gained notoriety as a stop on Route 66, eventually growing into New Mexico’s center of government and business.

Albuquerque offers many options, from tight-knit, family-oriented communities to neighborhoods for retirees. Below are the city’s five most salient attractions.

Most families moving to Albuquerque favor residential neighborhoods north of I-40, like North Valley and Rio Rancho. In contrast, young professionals, artists, and University of New Mexico students convene closer to downtown. You’ll find that different neighborhoods throughout Albuquerque have different flavors and amenities; all are situated in the pure open air of the high desert and surrounded by gorgeous mountains. To explore the city is to be amazed by the contrasts in architecture and scenery.

The crux of government and business in New Mexico, Albuquerque’s downtown and Old Town neighborhoods are also home to the city’s leading arts and entertainment districts. Old Town Albuquerque was founded in 1706 — well before the birth of the United States. In the heart of this capital city, you can hardly walk a block before encountering another art studio, live music venue, restaurant, cafe, or shop, many of which have been converted from historic buildings. Downtown Albuquerque is amid an expensive revitalization, with commercial real estate and hotels standing in contrast to Old Town and its seven museums.

If you wish to live in a community removed from downtown and close to acres of open space, consider North Valley. A high desert community set on the Rio Grande River, North Valley is a pastoral region with agricultural roots, a legacy upheld by various farmers markets and, to a lesser extent, wineries. Residents of North Valley enjoy a slow-paced life in proximity to urban conveniences, a dynamic at work in the neighborhood’s excellent spas.

Just north of North Valley, Rio Rancho is a growing suburb of Albuquerque with a population of 107,350, which has doubled over the past two decades. It is a commuter town with many residential homes against the backdrop of the stunning desert landscape of central New Mexico. Having been voted as one of the best places to live in America, Rio Rancho has many cultural attractions, outdoor activities, a great education system, and fantastic neighborhoods. Simply put, many love the City of Vision because they can find all of their must-haves in a quieter setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the major cities.

The homes of Albuquerque reflect the city’s history and diversity. Among the many architectural styles here, you might encounter Spanish Revival, Late Victorian, mid-century modern, and ranch Albuquerque homes for sale (ranches are more common the further you want to live from downtown).

Many properties contain eclectic gardens, art collections, and even livestock. You may also see stucco and adobe homes on the market. Albuquerque homes for sale range from single-family abodes to sprawling mansions.

For example, consider this five-bedroom luxury home in central Rio Rancho with a private courtyard, in-ground swimming pool, hot tub, storage shed, and half-acre yard. Whether entertaining guests or having a quiet evening with your family, you can lounge poolside after cooking a delectable meal in the outdoor kitchen while enjoying the gorgeous city views.

There are a variety of parks in Albuquerque. The most walkable neighborhoods in the city — Nob Hill, Huning Highland Historic District, and University Heights — are dotted with small parks and pleasant outdoor green spaces, including the University of New Mexico. Because the city averages 310 dry and mild days of sun per year, you have ample opportunity to discover the city by foot or bike.

 

If you want hiking, camping, and nature trails, take heart! The high desert is ideal for outdoor hobbyists like hikers, bikers, walkers, and joggers looking for unstructured alternatives to urban Albuquerque. The Sandia Mountains, located to the immediate east of Albuquerque, are more than just a reminder to escape the city. Their foothills contain friendly hikes among native flora and fauna, and you also can trek to the top of the mountains. Overnight campers will love stargazing the clear night sky.

To learn more about the plants in the area and appropriate conservation techniques, visit the Water Wise Demonstration Garden in Rio Rancho. You can easily spend a weekend in the brilliant outdoors, enjoying the refreshing air and gorgeous surroundings.

Albuquerque boasts a wide variety of top-rated restaurants, with food from many parts of the world. With so many food options available, there is a restaurant that will appease everyone in your group, whether you are eating out with your family, friends, or colleagues.

A portal back to the Prohibition Era, Vernon’s Speakeasy belongs at the top of your to-dos upon moving to Albuquerque. Your path leads through a dim exterior into a lively dining room and the restaurant’s live music area, the Black Diamond Lounge. The menu is equally noteworthy for its delicious seafood, vegan or vegetarian options, and steaks. Remember to bring the password!

A local favorite serving local fare, La Salita is perhaps the best family-run establishment in Albuquerque. The unassuming exterior of La Salita belies its menu (featuring New Mexican dishes like chile Rellenos) and history. The restaurant was founded over 40 years ago by an Armenian couple and has grown into a full-service go-to for generations of Albuquerque residents. The restaurant’s Operation Kindness promises a meal to someone in need for every $10 a customer donates.

Since opening its doors in 1999, Turtle Mountain Brewing Company has become a famous local institution in Rio Rancho. Renowned for their delicious pizzas and calzones baked to perfection in wood-fired ovens and offering a wide selection of beers on tap, many come to congregate and relax in a warm ambiance. Known as “Turtle” by locals, this restaurant has been recognized in popular publications, winning awards for its excellent pizza and beer.

Once you move to Albuquerque, you will have plenty to do, whether alone, with friends, or with family in tow. For example, KiMo Theatre is a historic landmark that doubles as a host of live performances, movies, and art. Near North Valley, the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum is more kid-friendly than its convoluted name suggests. Bring the whole family to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, operated by the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. Once a year, mark your calendars for the International Balloon Fiesta, which runs for nine days in October. Other festivals include the Festival of Cranes, Lavender Festival, and Albuquerque Summerfest.

Whether you are interested in buying or selling your home, your real estate agent can provide expert guidance from home selling tips to finding the right Albuquerque neighborhood. Through dedication, commitment, and perseverance, real estate agent Anita Mora will help you find your luxury dream home in Albuquerque. Contact Anita for a consultation today!