Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, with a city-proper population estimated at 557,161 and a broader metropolitan area of roughly 967,000 residents. The city sits at an elevation of 5,312 feet in Bernalillo County, featuring a near-even gender split, a median age of 38, and a majority-minority population where Hispanic or Latinx residents represent 49.2% of the community.
Albuquerque combines historical colonial roots with modern industrial growth, serving as the central economic and population hub of New Mexico.
While the city proper has experienced minor population fluctuations in recent years, the surrounding metropolitan area, including Rio Rancho and Los Lunas, continues to expand.
The city’s demographic breakdown reflects significant diversity, supported by major regional employers in healthcare, higher education, research, and public sector infrastructure.
Albuquerque Overview
Albuquerque was founded in 1706 as a military outpost and has evolved significantly over the centuries, influenced by its historical ties to Mexico and its role during the Atomic Age. Today, it is known for its modern amenities, cultural heritage, and growing population.
This city is where history and diversity intertwine. As the largest city in the state, its population reflects a mix of races and ethnicities. This unique blend shapes Albuquerque’s character, bridging the old with the new in the heart of the Southwest.
What is the population of Albuquerque?
As of 2024, Albuquerque’s population was estimated at 557,161 residents, making it the largest city in New Mexico. The city’s demographic profile reflects a diverse community that has experienced fluctuations in recent years, influenced by economic conditions, migration patterns, and natural population growth.
What are the age and gender stats?
The median age in Albuquerque is 38, and the population split is nearly even, with 49.07% males and 50.93% females, reflecting national averages. This balanced age and gender distribution contributes to the city’s dynamic social and economic landscape.
How’s the racial and ethnic diversity?
Albuquerque embraces a mosaic of cultures:
• White (Non-Hispanic): 37.01%
• White (Hispanic): 23.64%
• Two or More Races (Hispanic): 14.91%
• Native American: 4.81%
• Black or African American: 3.16%
• Asian: 3.1%
• Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.1%
• Other race (Hispanic and NonHispanic): 10.03%
• Hispanic or Latino residents make up 49.2% of the population, underscoring the city’s vast Hispanic heritage and cultural influence.
What are the common household types?
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, educational attainment statistics include:
• High school graduate or higher: 86.3%
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: 34.6%
• Albuquerque is home to several colleges and universities, most notably the University of New Mexico.
How’s the income and poverty?
The median household income in Albuquerque was $61,503 in 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Albuquerque has an employment challenge, with only 64.2% of the population age 16 and over in the civilian labor force, and an unemployment rate of about 5.5%.
Additionally, Albuquerque struggles with socioeconomic challenges and poverty, as 16.2% of residents lived below the poverty line from 2017–2021. This contrasts with the national average, highlighting areas where the city needs to focus its resources.
What’s the metro population of Albuquerque?
The Albuquerque metropolitan area, encompassing Rio Rancho, San and Los Lunas, has a combined population of approximately 967,000 residents as of 2024, reinforcing its regional significance within New Mexico. The metro population is around 1.16 million residents when including Santa Fe and Los Alamos.
What percentage of Albuquerque’s population are veterans?
Veterans constitute 7.3% of the Albuquerque population, primarily aged 65–74 years old.
How many immigrants are in Albuquerque?
Non-US citizens account for 10.1% of the population, with origins primarily from Mexico and other countries.
What’s the healthcare infrastructure like?
Albuquerque hosts several prominent institutions, including some of the largest hospitals, such as Presbyterian Hospital, UNM Hospital, and Lovelace Medical Center, catering to the medical needs of its diverse population. The city also features a range of modern amenities and infrastructure developments that support its growing population.
Albuquerque’s Growing Population
Albuquerque, NM, exemplifies a city in dynamic flux, characterized by its growing population and diverse demographics. Despite its robust economy and median income above the national average, Albuquerque also navigates challenges like poverty and economic disparities, highlighting its ongoing commitment to inclusive growth. As Albuquerque continues to evolve, its resilience is a testament to its spirit.
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