Anyone living in Albuquerque will tell you that Duke City is the place to be. Between the endless list of things to do in Albuquerque, the year-round mild weather, and the stunning collection of Albuquerque parks and hiking trails, there’s truly something for everyone here.
Considering calling this perfect pocket of the Southwest home? Dive into our guide to learn more about the magic of living in Albuquerque.
Why is Albuquerque So Popular?
Why are more people — twenty-somethings, families, retirees, and more — moving to Albuquerque? What makes the Duke City such a desirable new home for people from all walks of life?
#1 It’s Centrally Located
Straddling both sides of the Rio Grande, Albuquerque is the gateway to the American Southwest.
Offering non-stop flights to Western business hubs like Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, and San Diego, it’s easy to travel to and from Albuquerque. The Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ, in airline parlance) also offers non-stop flights to fan-favorite destinations like:
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- Los Angeles, California
- San Francisco, California
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Portland, Oregon
- Seattle Washington
- Chicago, Illinois
- New York, New York
Once you’re living in Albuquerque, you’ll truly understand the phrase, “Location, location, location!”
#2 Outdoor Activities Abound
Albuquerque parks are a highlight for every Duke City resident. When we aren’t hosting a special event like a seasonal fair, our parks are still fun-filled, picturesque places to connect with nature. Parks are scattered around the Albuquerque neighborhoods — everyone has a place to play.
If you’re a hiker, biker, or equestrian, you won’t be left in the desert dust. Albuquerque and the surrounding areas boast numerous trails to explore (like the Pino Trail, a favorite among locals).
#3 The Weather is Gorgeous
If you’re looking for a “sunny and 75” lifestyle, the weather in Albuquerque is guaranteed to please:
- The annual average high temperature is 70° F
- The annual average low temperature is 45° F
- We get less than 10 inches of rain each year, on average
- Snow is infrequent and typically confined to high-elevation areas
- While the temperatures will climb in the summer, our seasonal changes are mild
The weather in Albuquerque is conducive to outdoor activities, rooftop dining, and special events year-round.
#4 There’s Tons of Culture and History to Explore
Albuquerque is a hub of Southwestern history. Get immersed in Duke City culture by visiting:
- Historic Old Town – The landing place for some of Albuquerque’s earliest settlers, Old Town offers historic architecture, charming shops, and delectable local eats.
- Albuquerque museums – Albuquerque’s museum scene is unmatched — learn more about local history, art, anthropology, and so much more.
- Nob Hill – A past and present locus of nightlife, Nob Hill offers an array of eateries, bars, boutiques, and more along an iconic stretch of Route 66.
#5 Cost of Living is Affordable
Albuquerque is one of the most affordable cities in the US, boasting a 7% lower cost of living than the national average. If you’re considering moving to Albuquerque, expect to spend:
- 12% less than the national average on housing (ownership and renting)
- 8% less than the national average on utilities
- 2% less than the national average on groceries and food
- 7% less than the national average on transportation (gas and public transit)
- 9% less than the national average on healthcare costs
Whether you’re looking for a taste of city life or quiet suburban digs, living in Albuquerque won’t break the bank.
#6 The Job Market is Stable
The job market in Albuquerque offers numerous opportunities for young professionals to start or continue their careers. Both private and public sector employers play significant roles in the local economy, and jobseekers shouldn’t have a problem securing employment in or around the city.
Some of Albuquerque’s top industries include:
- Higher education
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
- Federal government operations
- TV and film production
- Tourism
Like many other metropolitan areas, Albuquerque offers a stable, welcoming job market.
#7 There’s a High Quality of Living
The quality of life in Albuquerque is second to none:
- The local economy is diverse and prosperous
- There are countless things to do in and around the city
- It hosts numerous year-round, seasonal, and short-term cultural events
- Albuquerque neighborhoods are varied and offer something for every resident
If you’re looking for a safe, highly active community in the Southwest, Albuquerque won’t disappoint.
What are the Winters Like in Albuquerque?
If you’re looking to escape cold, brutal winters in favor of mild weather and subtle seasonal changes, Albuquerque is right up your alley. Here are a few fast facts about winters in Albuquerque:
- Average winter temperatures typically range between 37° and 69° F.
- The average lowest winter temperature is 28° F, while the highest is 60° F.
- Snow isn’t common, but flakes and flurries typically only appear at high elevations.
Plus, winters in the Duke City are relatively short — especially compared to more frigid locales like the Midwest and Northeast. Albuquerque delivers year-round pleasant weather — the perfect pairing for our slate of outdoor activities.
What is the Best Area to Live in Albuquerque?
When you ask a resident about the best places to live in Albuquerque, you’ll likely hear some of the following responses:
While this is not an exhaustive list of some of the best neighborhoods in Albuquerque, the city offers a wide variety of settings — from quiet suburbs to active metro areas. Whether you’re looking to settle down with your family, find a peaceful retirement locale, or move into your first apartment away from home, you’ll love the sheer variety of options available in Albuquerque.
Albuquerque: A City to Call Home
If you’re looking for a new home in the Southwest with tons to do, ample work opportunities, scenic vistas, and a deeply-rooted local history, consider moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico. While we might be more than a little partial toward the Duke City, we know that it won’t take long for you to discover the magic for yourself.
