Hey everyone! Thinking about moving to Albuquerque? I did and its been the best decision of my life.
It’s right in the middle of New Mexico and offers more than just stunning views. It’s a place full of diverse cultures and lots of new opportunities. As a person who’s been living here for over 26 years, I’ve got the inside scoop on things you should consider when moving to Albuquerque. Here are seven key tips to help you make your move to Albuquerque as smooth as possible.
1. Understand the Climate:
Albuquerque residents enjoy a semi-arid climate, meaning we get plenty of sunny days followed by cool, crisp evenings. It’s a mix that will have you enjoying summers in the sun and layering in the brisk autumn. This unique weather pattern allows for many lifestyles and activities, such as hikes, running, sports, and even snowboarding on the Sandia Peak! Climate affects how we water our plants and landscape our yards and also made the traditional home building techniques of our early settlers very important in today’s homes.
2. Explore the Housing Market:
Albuquerque’s housing market is as diverse as its landscape. You’ll find everything from sleek downtown condos to classic adobe homes in the suburbs. Personally, I recommend taking your time to really explore the different neighborhoods with an amazing realtor (ahem).. It’s important to find a spot that not just fits your budget but also suits your lifestyle. The market doesn’t just include location, but interest rates, pricing, and macroeconomic conditions. It is best to talk to a team with a great lender partner who can best advise you on these financial decisions.
3. Embrace the Local Culture:
Our city is a melting pot of Native American, Hispanic, Anglo, and even Asian influences, which makes it really special. Events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow are highlights of the year and a must for anyone moving here. I’ve always found that diving into these cultural festivities is a great way to feel connected and truly at home and a great opportunity to meet new people in other cultures. Feast days at the Pueblos and dances in the Old Town Square are some other highlights.
4. Transportation Options:
Getting around here is pretty straightforward. Although having a car is handy for covering more ground, Albuquerque supports a variety of transportation options. We have buses and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express that are reliable for public transportation. Plus, if you like biking, you’ll appreciate our numerous trails and bike-friendly streets. We are rated as one of the top biker friendly cities!
5. Educational Opportunities:
If schools are important to you, you’ll find plenty of educational options here. Albuquerque has a range of public, private, and charter schools. We’re also home to the University of New Mexico and Central New Mexico Community College, which offer great higher education opportunities right in your backyard. I suggest looking at each of the school’s ratings on the k-12 levels and at UNM’s ranking. We have many top tier programs and colleges that are pioneers in their field.
6. Economic Landscape:
The economy here is fueled by tech, research, and healthcare sectors. Major players like Sandia National Laboratories and Intel offer plenty of job opportunities. We’ve also got a thriving small business community, which is perfect if you’re thinking of starting your own business or finding new work. Employment by the military base, Sandia labs, the government, and the hospital are the largest employers. The movie industry continues to thrive, with Netflix, CBS, and multiple studios expanding. We have become on of the staple names in the film business.
7. Recreational Activities:
One of my favorite parts about living here is the access to outdoor activities. The Sandia Mountains are just a stone’s throw away for hiking or skiing, and the Rio Grande is perfect for a peaceful day of walking and kayaking if you want to travel north a bit. Not to mention, our city parks, museums, and theaters keep the entertainment and cultural scene alive and kicking. Night life is centralized around nob hill and downtown and we have Popejoy Hall for broadway shows. Don’t forget to stop by the Frontier for your cinnamon roll after the show!
So, are you thinking about moving to Albuquerque? It’s a great choice! Our city mixes different cultures, job opportunities, and fun activities in a way that’s really unique. Get ready to dive into a community that values both its traditions and new ideas. You know at least one friendly Albuquerian who will gladly say hello.
