6 Charming New Mexico Communities To Retire Around Albuquerque
Picture this: breathtaking natural landscapes, a warm year-round climate, and a cost of living hovering around 5% below the national average. There are many reasons why New Mexico is an incredible state in which to retire. Between the extensive art collections of Corrales, the eye-catching landscapes of Grants, and the excellent transportation infrastructure of Belen, the Land of Enchantment features gorgeous small towns that will blow you away. Find your dream destination as you discover the most charming New Mexico communities to retire around Albuquerque.
Placitas
Perfectly situated between the major cities of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, Placitas is a scenic destination with a fantastic location. About 3,900 residents can enjoy beautiful views with stunning natural vistas and unique attractions, being part of a friendly small-town community with access to the amenities of New Mexico's biggest cities. In the north of the Sandia Mountains, explore the Sandia Man Cave, a National Historic Landmark since 1961. See what you can find in this fascinating archaeological site on the cliff walls of Las Huertas Canyon. Discover scenic views as you go hiking on the Mustang Alley Trail, known for its abundance of wildlife and wildflowers. Prepare to be inspired at the Wild Hearts Gallery, where artists of all kinds come together to showcase lovely art. Placitas has a thriving retirement community — the median age here is 62.8 years old. The crime rate is typically below the national average. Major facilities like Albuquerque ER & Hospital and Sandoval Regional Medical Center can be reached within 25 minutes.
Corrales
If you are looking to retire in a friendly place with a tight-knit community, Corrales might be a perfect fit. This peaceful village has a high retirement population — 36.3% of its 8,600 residents are aged 65 and over. Corrales also has a low crime rate that is significantly lower than the national average, making this one of the safest cities in New Mexico. Indulge in a mix of history and culture as you learn about the heritage and traditions on the MainStreet. Admire the comprehensive collections of New Mexican art and furnishings in Casa San Ysidro, a historic house museum built around 1875. Sip on hand-crafted beers and wines in Casa Vieja, a historic adobe house built in 1770. Presbyterian Rust Medical Center, recognized for America's 100 Best Hospitals Award in 2022 (for delivering clinical quality year over year), is only a 15-minute drive away. Lovelace Westside Hospital, a 92-bed acute care facility with a 24/7 emergency department, is also approximately 12 minutes away. The median home sold price in Corrales is $531,300 USD.
Grants
Located in the northwest, Grants is an incredibly picturesque area known for its extreme diversity. Experience the magic of El Malpais National Monument, a volcanic landscape with lava fields, sandstone cliffs, and ancient trails. Bask in the beauty of La Ventana Natural Arch, one of New Mexico's largest natural arches, visible from the parking area. Spend the afternoon at Coyote Del Malpais, an 18-hole course with championship style golf and 16 lakes. Aside from natural landscapes and fascinating formations, Grants has a quaint MainStreet District. There, you can hop between coffee shops, grocery stores, steakhouses, movie theaters, art galleries, museums, and shops of all kinds. Not to mention the Cibola Senior Citizens Center offers various services and interactive activities including dance classes, tea and trivia, yoga sessions, movie showings, and bake sales. This small city of about 9,000 residents is very serene and offers a laid-back lifestyle. Plus, with a median listing home price of $159,900 USD, Grants is very affordable. The crime rate is reported to be lower than the national average, so you can feel safe calling Grants your future home. Cibola General Hospital also offers a wide range of services and has an emergency room that is open 24/7. Fun fact: Grants takes up 86 miles of Route 66, one of the most famous roads around the world.
Edgewood
About 30 minutes east of Albuquerque you will find Edgewood, a quiet, suburban-rural town of 6,112 residents, with a median sold home price of $423,500 USD. The crime rate here is typically lower than the national average, so you can feel secure being part of this close community with its popular library and friendly neighbors. The First Choice Community Healthcare Center and Duke City Primary Care offer multiple services in the area. Wildlife West Nature Park is one of the most extraordinary attractions in Edgewood. This 122-acre wildlife refuge and rescue zoo has over 20 species of animals, including elk, wolves, cougars, raptors, and more. Wildlife West is also a wonderful place to volunteer—there are various opportunities to help contribute your skills that will make you feel incredibly fulfilled. Nature lovers will likely also enjoy the nearby Elena Gallegos Open Space, featuring extraordinary views of the landscape and plenty of options for hiking, birdwatching, and more. Church Street Market is a great spot for shopping. With over 20 shops featuring vintage items, home decor, and lovely gifts, it will be tough to walk out the door! Enjoy a mouthwatering meal at The Pizza Barn, where the atmosphere is just as warm as the food, or try horseback riding at Enchantment Equitreks to experience the unique equestrian culture.
Belen
If you are looking for an affordable place to live in New Mexico, Belen may be a great fit. The city has a median home sold price of $251,400 USD. Plus, with its small-town atmosphere and close proximity to Albuquerque, 7,507 residents can enjoy living in a peaceful community, while having access to the major amenities of the big city and natural wonders, like the Bernardo Wildlife Area. "The Hub City" is famous for its top-tier transportation infrastructure. While Belen was founded as a Spanish settlement town in 1740, the city earned its nickname after becoming a railroad center for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad in 1907. For those interested in train travel, study railyard and rail history at the Harvey House Museum. See the train displays at the SouthWest Model Railroad Museum in Doodlebug Park, located in the city’s historic district. On the flip side, nature lovers will enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking in the Whitfield Wildlife Conservation Area. Visit the beautiful Jaramillo Vineyards, recognized for its selection of quality wines, in the Middle Rio Grande Valley.
Los Ranchos de Albuquerque
Situated near the banks of the Rio Grande, one of the longest rivers in North America, Los Ranchos is a serene rural village teeming with beauty. Here, you will see lush landscapes, picturesque wineries, unique shops, and fresh farmers' markets. Choose from a wide selection of quality wines at Casa Rondeña Winery, as you learn about its rich culture and heritage. Enjoy some authentic biscochitos cookies, the official state cookie of New Mexico since 1989, at Celina's Biscochitos bakery. Breathe in the fresh floral aromas at Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, set amid acres of lavender fields, farmland, and gardens. With a population of 5,809 residents (23.9% of which are aged 65 and over), Los Ranchos is a quiet village to retire in. The crime rate here is usually lower than the national average. Albuquerque ER & Hospital also has a location in the area and is open 24/7.
Communities to Retire Around Albuquerque
There is no denying New Mexico is filled with rich history, natural beauty, and cultural wonders. Whether you prefer the gorgeous vistas and archaeological gems of Placitas, the stunning landscapes and age-friendly amenities of Grants, or the quaint shops and vast wildlife of Edgewood, there are plenty of communities to retire around Albuquerque. Plus, between affordable housing prices, low crime rates, and proximity to healthcare facilities, you will feel safe and secure choosing one of these charming towns to retire around Albuquerque.
