Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Albuquerque, NM
Thinking of moving to Albuquerque, NM? With a population over 560,000, Albuquerque offers affordable living, with median home prices around $292,000 and average rent of $1,220. The city enjoys 74% sunny days a year and short 21-minute average commutes. While crime rates are higher than the national average, residents enjoy diverse neighborhoods, access to major hospitals, and abundant outdoor recreation. Albuquerque’s vibrant culture, educational options, and desert climate make it a unique place to call home.
Demographics - Albuquerque, NM
Demographics - Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is home to over 563,000 residents with a median age of 37.7, offering a diverse community where more than half identify with non-white backgrounds and 25% speak a language other than English. The city has a moderate population density, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
563,165
Density:
3,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.7
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
39.4%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
54.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Albuquerque, NM?
Living in Albuquerque is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $292,000 and average rent at $1,220. The city’s cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing amenities.
Median House Value:
$292,000
Gross Rent:
$1,220
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,530
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$435
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.3
Grocery:
96.7
Housing:
81.5
Utilities:
90.2
Transportation:
92.4
Health Care:
91.8
Miscellaneous:
96.0
Crime
Is Albuquerque, NM a safe place to live?
While Albuquerque provides many urban conveniences, its crime rates are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 74 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 17 chance of property crime. Prospective residents should consider neighborhood safety when choosing where to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,345
Property Crimes Per 100k:
5,816
Crime Index:
7,161
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 74
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 17
Weather
What is the weather like in Albuquerque, NM year-round?
Albuquerque enjoys a sunny desert climate, boasting 74% sunny days annually and mild rainfall of about 9.5 inches per year. Winters are cool but not harsh, while summers are warm and dry, making the city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
74%
Neighbors
Residents of Albuquerque benefit from a median household income of $56,366, and most people enjoy a quick average commute of just over 21 minutes. The local community is diverse and well-educated, with nearly 90% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$32,300
Household Income:
$56,366
Family Income:
$66,800
Per Capita Income:
$30,500
Income Male:
$40,200
Income Female:
$34,100
Poverty Rate:
17.6%
Non English Speakers:
25.1%
Rent:
$1,220
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.3%
Commute Time:
21.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
34.2%
Education
How are the schools in Albuquerque, NM?
Albuquerque features a range of educational options, including highly-rated public and private schools as well as major institutions like the University of New Mexico. With over a third of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, the city supports strong academic achievement.
Public Schools
Name:
La Cueva High School
Street:
7801 Wilshire Ave NE
Phone:
505-823-2327
Students:
1,770
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
Manzano High School
Street:
12200 Lomas Blvd NE
Phone:
505-559-2200
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
Sandia Preparatory School
Street:
532 Osuna Rd NE
Phone:
505-338-3000
Students:
500
Colleges
Name:
University of New Mexico
City:
Albuquerque
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
22,000
Name:
Central New Mexico Community College
City:
Albuquerque
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
20,000
Healthcare
Albuquerque offers quality healthcare with major hospitals like UNM Hospital and Presbyterian Hospital providing comprehensive services, and about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents. A high rate of health insurance coverage ensures most people have access to medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UNM Hospital
Address:
2211 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Phone:
(505) 272-2111
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Presbyterian Hospital
Address:
1100 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Phone:
(505) 841-1234
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Albuquerque, NM?
The housing market in Albuquerque is accessible, with median home prices at $292,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 59%. Steady home appreciation and a moderate rental vacancy rate create opportunities for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$292,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,220
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Albuquerque are managed by the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, with services available online and at the main office in Santa Fe. Residents can access helpful resources and support for all driving-related needs.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1100 S St. Francis Dr, Santa Fe, NM 87504
Phone:
1-888-683-4636
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.