6 Budget-Friendly Towns in New Mexico for Retirees

The state of New Mexico sits between Arizona, Colorado, and Texas and borders the country of Mexico. It is well known for its rich heritage, such as the Pueblo's, national parks, and UNESCO world heritage sites. It also has plenty of chances for outdoor recreation, a lower cost of living, generally low crime rates, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're looking to be closer to hubs like Albuquerque or Santa Fe or want to experience somewhere quirky, such as towns known for their UFO sightings, New Mexico offers dozens of small towns perfect for settling down. Enjoy over 300 days of sunshine, mild weather, and all the amenities you could need without having to brave the big city.

Los Lunas

Near Albuquerque but still maintaining that small-town feel, Los Lunas has dozens of community-based activities, both indoor and outdoor, meaning you'll never feel left out. It'll be easier than ever to make new friends, find new hobbies, and give back to the town.

Located on the historic Route 66, Los Lunas has a rich history. Check out the Museum of Heritage and Arts, where you can browse the exhibits and take advantage of the genealogy records center. The local library has computer classes, book clubs, and an electronics rental program. There is a typical movie theater, as well as the Badlands Drive-In Theater, perfect for a night out. Sign up for classes throughout town, like dancing, or join a sports league such as volleyball.

There are also plenty of parks offering different activities. Heritage Park has a Wellness Center and a dedicated walking trail. Daniel Fernandez Memorial Park has tennis courts, and Riverpark is great for an afternoon stroll and fishing. There is also a dog park at Huning Ranch Park.

Amenities in town include plenty of restaurants, a farmers market, a supermarket, fire and police stations, home health services, acupuncture clinics, salons, chiropractors, spas, animal hospitals, and so much more.

Homes in Los Lunas average around $362,900.

Silver City

Silver City is located near the Gila National Forest, which offers plenty of recreational opportunities. Check out the Gila Cliff Dwellings or the Catwalk Recreational Area, which has a stunning canyon walking trail. The Continental Divide Trail also passes near Silver City, and the Gila Hot Springs are perfect for a relaxing dip. With over 300 days of sunny weather, it's easy to get out and about.

Back in town, you can hang out at places like the Fine Arts Center Theater and Silver City Community Theater or spend your days getting to know historical downtown. The Silver City Museum and the public library also offer art classes, live music, yoga, board games, and more. Year-round events include car shows, blues festivals, rodeos, fiestas, fairs, powwows, and a farmers market. Catch some live music at Little Toad Creek Brewery or at Tranquil Buzz Coffeehouse.

There are also plenty of retail options and restaurants serving Mexican cuisine, Chinese food, burgers, Southern comfort food, frybread, bagels, and more. Delis, bakeries, and cafes are also plentiful.

Homes in Silver City average around $349,000.

Roswell

Roswell, known for its UFO sightings and alien-themed town, is a quirky retirement destination full of fun events, fantastic amenities, and a popular UFO festival every year.

For those who love art, check out the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art or the Roswell Museum and Art Center. The library also offers coloring groups, crochet clubs, chess clubs, and gardening clubs. The Adult Center offers an art room, social room, and other activities like a fitness center, billiards room, shuffleboard area, and dedicated park. The Goddard Planetarium is also for those who want to experience the stars.

If you enjoy being outside or staying active, explore Bottomless Lake State Park and the Spring River Zoo, or grab a membership for the Aquatic and Recreation Center or the Nancy Lopez Golf Course, which offers a seniors association. There is also a volunteer group dedicated to keeping the town clean.

Life in Roswell is made easier by two hospitals, the Eastern New Mexico Medical Center and the Lovelace Regional Hospital. There is also a convenient transit system that takes you to all the different restaurants and shops.

Homes in Roswell average around $275,000.

Mesilla

Although home prices in Mesilla are a little higher, the sheer amount of things to do, as well as amenities available, make this town the perfect place to settle down.

Get to know your community with the Farmers and Craft Market and events throughout the year, such as Cinco De Mayo, an Artisans Market, the Summer Music Series, the Jazz and Blues Festival, car shows, and Christmas events. The town also offers collaboration studios for those into art and the Fountain Theater Art House for those into the performing arts.

If spending the day outdoors is your favorite way to do so, check out the City of Rocks State Park, the Dripping Springs Natural Area, and the nearby Gila National Forest. You can also find farms and nurseries selling everything from produce to naturally sourced honey.

Back in town, browse the fun shops offering things like used books, botanicals, teas, spices, and a year-round Christmas store. There is also a vintage market, beauty shops, art studios, and places to grab craft liquor, such as Dry Point Distillers and Luna Rossa Winery. Make sure to try out the many restaurants, such as French-inspired cafes, wood-fired grills, and the Spotted Dog Brewery. And don't worry about getting to all these fantastic places, as there is a transit system and an on-demand service.

Homes in Mesilla average around $536,000.

Grants

Grants is the perfect retirement community for those who consider themselves outdoor enthusiasts. There is a vast amount of amazing things to do, from hiking to camping, mountain biking, fishing, and more.

Witness the beauty of the Ice Caves and Bandera Volcano, or hike to the top of Mount Taylor. Visit the La Ventana Arch or the Sandstone Bluffs. Explore the many trails in Bluewater State Park, or in Chaco Culture National Park. There is also the Coyote del Malpais Golf Course and Riverwalk Park. Nearby popular trails include Gooseberry Spring, Zuni-Acoma, El Calderon Loop, and the Continental Divide. There are also stunning pueblos, including Acoma Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, and Zuni Pueblo.

On rest days, check out the museums, which are dedicated to things like aviation, mining, and Route 66. The town is also home to dozens of shops, boutiques, florists, trading posts, and bakeries. Stop in at a local restaurant that offers things like pizza, Chinese food, and New Mexican cuisine, as well as plenty of cafes and more well-known places like Subway, McDonalds, Sonic, and KFC. Major shopping can also be done at retailers like Walmart, Walgreens, and supermarkets.

Health services in town include a general hospital, dental clinics, pharmacies, counseling services, and physical therapy.

Homes in Grants average around $239,000.

Farmington

Keep busy with the town of Farmington. Get outdoors and enjoy an afternoon at Lake Farmington or courses like Pinon Hills Golf Course and Civitan Golf Course. There are also sights like Chokecherry Canyon and the Riverside Nature Center, where you can view wildlife.

Find your new group with dozens of socialization opportunities. Sign up for the town's volunteer program, or spend your time at the animal shelter. Embrace your artistic side with the Four Corners Musical Theater Company, Makers Market, and Jazz Jams. Explore the streets of historic downtown and take advantage of hubs like the library and seniors center. At the library, join clubs dedicated to crafts, knitting, and books and attend concerts. At the Bonnie Dallas Seniors Center, enjoy meals, a fitness center, and classes and groups dedicated to things like beadwork, ceramics, crafts, quilting, crocheting, card games, creative writing, and fitness activities like dancing, yoga, and pilates. The town's Aquatic Center and Recreation Center also offers lane swimming, pools, racquetball courts, Zumba, a fitness center, and a gymnasium.

Homes in Farmington average around $377,000.

So whether you're hoping to sell your creations at a local market, embrace a thriving art scene, join an outdoor recreation group, or simply live out your days basking in the sun, New Mexico is the perfect state to retire in. With excellent hospitals, accessible transit options, and plenty of opportunities for finding your new community, all that's left to do is find the perfect home!