Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Santa Fe, NM
Thinking about moving to Santa Fe, NM? With a population of around 88,300, Santa Fe combines rich history, abundant sunshine (73% sunny days), and a vibrant arts scene. The median home price is $468,000, rents average $1,420, and the cost of living is moderately above the national average. Commutes are short (about 18 minutes), and top-rated public schools and healthcare facilities serve the city. While property crime is higher than average, residents enjoy a high quality of life, unique culture, and beautiful southwestern climate.
Demographics - Santa Fe, NM
Demographics - Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe is home to about 88,300 residents, with a median age of 44.8, reflecting its appeal to both families and retirees. The city is notably diverse, with nearly half the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, and almost 30% speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a comfortable small-city atmosphere.
Population:
88,300
Density:
1,950 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.8
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
29.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
49.1%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
48.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Santa Fe, NM?
The cost of living in Santa Fe is moderately higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 120.6. Median home values are around $468,000 and average rents are $1,420, largely driven by the city's desirable lifestyle and scenic setting. Essential expenses like utilities and transportation remain close to national norms, while housing costs are the primary driver of the higher index.
Median House Value:
$468,000
Gross Rent:
$1,420
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,920
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
1.7%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.6
Grocery:
103.5
Housing:
143.2
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
99.8
Health Care:
106.7
Miscellaneous:
102.2
Crime
Is Santa Fe, NM a safe place to live?
Santa Fe experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a 1 in 34 chance of being affected, while violent crime remains comparatively moderate at 445 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents should take standard precautions, but many still enjoy a strong sense of community and peace of mind. Local law enforcement and neighborhood watch programs are active in promoting safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
445
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,965
Crime Index:
3,410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 225
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Santa Fe, NM year-round?
Santa Fe boasts a pleasant southwestern climate, with 73% of days being sunny and just over 14 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are chilly but manageable, while summers are warm and comfortable, making outdoor recreation possible year-round. The city’s mild weather is a major draw for those seeking plenty of sunshine and clear skies.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
43°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
14.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Santa Fe’s neighborhoods offer a blend of cultural richness and economic diversity, with a median household income of $63,100 and a poverty rate of 13.2%. Most residents have a high school diploma or higher, and the city is known for its artistic and multilingual community. Commute times are short, averaging just over 18 minutes, adding to the convenience of daily life.
Median Income:
$45,500
Household Income:
$63,100
Family Income:
$78,800
Per Capita Income:
$40,900
Income Male:
$44,100
Income Female:
$38,500
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
29.5%
Rent:
$1,420
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
18.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.7%
Bachelors or More:
43.9%
Education
How are the schools in Santa Fe, NM?
Santa Fe offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-regarded public and private schools as well as higher education institutions like Santa Fe Community College and St. John’s College. Public schools feature favorable student-teacher ratios, and nearly 44% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Families and students benefit from the city’s commitment to quality education and lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Santa Fe High School
Street:
2100 Yucca St
Phone:
505-467-2400
Students:
1,450
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Carlos Gilbert Elementary
Street:
300 Griffin St
Phone:
505-467-4700
Students:
440
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Santa Fe Waldorf School
Street:
26 Puesta Del Sol
Phone:
505-467-6431
Students:
270
Colleges
Name:
Santa Fe Community College
City:
Santa Fe
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,300
Name:
St. John's College
City:
Santa Fe
State:
NM
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
400
Healthcare
Santa Fe provides access to quality healthcare with two major hospitals offering emergency services and a physician rate of 2.6 per 1,000 residents. Over 91% of the population has health insurance, reflecting strong local healthcare infrastructure. The city’s healthcare index indicates generally favorable access and affordability.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center
Address:
455 St Michaels Dr, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Phone:
(505) 913-3361
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Presbyterian Santa Fe Medical Center
Address:
4801 Beckner Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507
Phone:
(505) 772-1234
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Santa Fe, NM?
Santa Fe’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $468,000 and an average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,420. Homeownership is common, with nearly 65% of residents owning their homes, while the rental vacancy rate stands at 6.1%. Home values have appreciated by 5.1% in the past year, making it a solid market for investment and long-term living.
Median Home Price:
$468,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,420
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle licensing and registration through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located at 2544 Camino Edward Ortiz in Santa Fe. The DMV offers essential services both in person and online, making it easy to manage driving-related needs. For assistance, residents can call 1-888-683-4636 or visit the official website.
State:
New Mexico
Department:
New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
2544 Camino Edward Ortiz, Santa Fe, NM 87507
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.