When it comes to finding a safe place to live, New Mexico offers several cities that stand out for their low crime rates and welcoming communities.
If you're considering a move to the Land of Enchantment, here are the top 8 safest places to live in New Mexico, each offering unique qualities and opportunities.
Top 8 Safest Places to Live in New Mexico
- Los Alamos
- Corrales
- Rio Rancho
- Santa Fe
- Los Lunas
- Las Cruces
- Ruidoso
- Farmington
Los Alamos
Nestled in the Jemez Mountains, Los Alamos is a small town known for its stunning natural beauty and strong sense of community.
Here are some key statistics about Los Alamos:
- The population of Los Alamos is around 19,860 people.
- The crime rate in Los Alamos is 73% lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live.
- Los Alamos is home to the esteemed Los Alamos National Laboratory, providing excellent employment opportunities in the fields of science and technology.
- The median home price in Los Alamos is approximately $400,000.
- Renting an apartment in Los Alamos averages around $1,500 per month.
Corrales
Located just northwest of Albuquerque, Corrales is a peaceful village renowned for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant artistic community.
Key statistics about Corrales include:
- The population of Corrales is approximately 8,720 residents.
- Corrales boasts a crime rate that is 64% lower than the national average.
- The village offers a wide range of recreational activities, including horseback riding along the Rio Grande and exploring the beautiful Bosque Preserve.
- The cost of living in Corrales is slightly higher than the state average, with a median home price of around $420,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Corrales is approximately $1,200.
Rio Rancho
Situated just outside of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho is the state's third-largest city and a rapidly growing community.
Here are some key statistics about Rio Rancho:
- With a population of over 107,489 residents, Rio Rancho is a bustling city experiencing significant growth.
- Rio Rancho maintains a crime rate that is 35% lower than the national average.
- The city offers a diverse range of recreational activities, including championship-level golfing at the Santa Ana Golf Club and hiking opportunities at the nearby Cabezon Peak.
- The cost of living in Rio Rancho is lower than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $230,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Rio Rancho is around $900.
Santa Fe
As the capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and stunning architecture.
Here are some key statistics about Santa Fe:
- With a population of around 89,220 residents, Santa Fe is a vibrant and diverse city.
- Santa Fe boasts a crime rate that is 33% lower than the national average.
- The city offers a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains and exploring the historic Plaza.
- The cost of living in Santa Fe is higher than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $520,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Santa Fe is around $1,700.
Los Lunas
Situated in the picturesque Rio Grande Valley, Los Lunas is a growing town known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable living options.
Here are some key statistics about Los Lunas:
- With a population of around 18,885 residents, Los Lunas offers a close-knit community feel.
- Los Lunas maintains a crime rate that is 28% lower than the national average.
- The town provides easy access to outdoor activities, such as fishing and boating at the nearby Belen and Tome Hill Reservoirs.
- Los Lunas is conveniently located near the University of New Mexico- Valencia Campus, making it an attractive option for students pursuing higher education.
- The cost of living in Los Lunas is lower than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $190,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Los Lunas is around $800.
Las Cruces
Located in the southern part of New Mexico, Las Cruces is the state's second-largest city and a prominent center for higher education and research.
Here are some key statistics about Las Cruces:
- With a population of over 114,096 residents, Las Cruces is a bustling and vibrant city.
- Las Cruces maintains a crime rate that is 27% lower than the national average.
- The city offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking opportunities in the stunning Organ Mountains and exploring the historic Mesilla Plaza.
- Las Cruces is home to New Mexico State University, providing a wealth of academic and employment opportunities.
- The cost of living in Las Cruces is lower than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $190,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Las Cruces is around $800.
Ruidoso
Nestled in the stunning Sierra Blanca Mountains, Ruidoso is a picturesque mountain village renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities and breathtaking beauty.
Here are some key statistics about Ruidoso:
- With a population of around 7,924 residents, Ruidoso offers a close-knit community atmosphere.
- Ruidoso maintains a crime rate that is 26% lower than the national average.
- The village provides a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing in the nearby Ski Apache resort.
- Ruidoso is home to the Hubbard Museum of the American West, which showcases the rich cowboy and Native American heritage of the region.
- The cost of living in Ruidoso is slightly higher than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $290,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Ruidoso is around $900.
Farmington
Sitting in the northwestern corner of New Mexico, Farmington is a vibrant city renowned for its natural beauty and strong sense of community.
Here are some key statistics about Farmington:
- With a population of around 46,076 residents, Farmington offers a lively and close-knit community atmosphere.
- Farmington maintains a crime rate that is 19% lower than the national average.
- Farmington is home to the annual Four Corners Folk Festival, a popular event that attracts music lovers from all over the region.
- The cost of living in Farmington is lower than the state average, with a median home price of approximately $180,000.
- If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Farmington is around $800.