What Life in New Mexico Is Really Like

The Land of Enchantment’s sunny skies and stunning landscapes may be calling your name. But before you load up the moving truck, discover what daily life in New Mexico is really like there.  

Sure New Mexico can seem like a desert paradise from afar, but you’ll want the insider scoop on what to expect once those boxes are unpacked. Will the pace of life match your speed? How’s the job market? And what about chiles — are you ready for them to be on everything? Let’s dig in and find out if New Mexico might be your next home sweet home. 

Living in New Mexico: The Pros 

Gorgeous Natural Beauty 

New Mexico is home to stunning natural landscapes, from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to White Sands National Park. You’ll never run out of scenic hikes and outdoor adventures in this breathtaking state. 

300 Days of Sunshine 

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, New Mexico’s weather is ideal for those looking to escape dreary, overcast climates. While summers are hot, the low humidity makes the heat more bearable. And the sunny weather lasts well into fall, with warm temperatures through October. 

Rich Culture 

New Mexico culture is like no other. You’ll find a vibrant mix of Native American, Spanish, Mexican and Anglo influences that have blended over centuries. From adobe architecture and colorful artwork to delicious green chile stew and fry bread, life here feels worlds away from any other state in America. 

Low Cost of Living 

Housing and living costs in New Mexico are well below the national average. Home prices are very affordable, especially compared to other western states. And since there’s no state income tax, you’ll get to keep more of what you earn. Ultimately, the laidback lifestyle and lower cost of living allow for a high quality of life on a budget. 

The Cons of Living in New Mexico 

Isolated and Remote 

New Mexico is the fifth largest state by area, but 47th in population density. Outside of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, towns are few and far between. If you like solitude, great! But if you crave entertainment and amenities, living in the state may not be for you. 

Summers That Are Hot as Hades 

From June through August, temperatures routinely top 95 F, and parts of the state see over 100 days above 90 F each year. Not surprisingly, summer recreation options are limited during that time; air conditioning is necessary; and utility bills are high. However, swamp coolers – or evaporative coolers – can be an effective, affordable way to cool your home in drier parts of the state. Note that the hot weather also means an increased risk of wildfires.

Crime, Poverty and Opportunities 

Job opportunities are scarce, and wages are well below national averages. The state economy depends heavily on government jobs and tourism, with not much else. If you have a family to support or career ambitions, consider if a move would provide the means or opportunities you need. 

What to Know Before Moving to New Mexico 

The Climate is Arid and Hot 

New Mexico’s climate is mostly arid and semi-arid, with hot summers and short, mild winters. Much of the state receives less than 15 inches of rain per year. If you’re not used to the heat, it may take some adjusting. The summer temperatures often exceed 90 F, especially in the lower elevations. Undeterred? Make sure there’s adequate cooling before buying or signing a lease. 

A Vibe All Its Own 

You’ll find a vibrant mix of art, food, music and festivals that showcase this blend. Native American pueblos and reservations feature distinct cultures, arts and languages. Meanwhile, Hispanic villages date back to the 1500s. Experience the culture by visiting local galleries, attending festivals and trying tongue-singeing New Mexican cuisine, like green chile stew, tamales and biscochitos. 

Outdoor Activities Galore 

New Mexico’s varied landscape offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. You can go hiking, biking, camping, fishing, skiing, rock climbing, and more. National forests, state parks, and BLM lands provide access to mountains, rivers, lakes and desert scenery. Iconic attractions like the Rio Grande Gorge, White Sands National Park and Carlsbad Caverns National Park are perfect for outdoor recreation and sightseeing. Just remember to stay hydrated in the arid climate and watch out for flash floods in the summer. 

Picking the Right New Mexico Neighborhood for You 

Choosing where to live in New Mexico depends a lot on the lifestyle you want. The state offers everything from bustling cities to tiny rural towns. As you start your search, think about things like proximity to work and recreation, housing costs and community amenities. 

Urban Life in Albuquerque and Santa Fe 

If you prefer living in a city with culture, nightlife, and amenities, consider Albuquerque or Santa Fe. Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, with over 900,000 residents. It has a low cost of living, an international airport and attractions like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. The historic city of Santa Fe oozes culture, from world-class opera and cuisine to art galleries on every corner. However, housing costs here are significantly higher than in Albuquerque. 

Small Town Charm 

New Mexico’s small towns offer a quieter pace of life and tight-knit communities. Places like Taos, Silver City, and Cloudcroft have under 10,000 residents, stunning scenery, and a charming historic downtown. While small towns typically have a lower cost of living, they also usually have fewer amenities and job opportunities. If you can work remotely, though, a small town could be perfect. 

Rural Solitude 

If you crave open space and privacy, consider New Mexico’s most rural areas. Counties like Catron, Harding and De Baca have population densities of less than one person per square mile. You’ll find sprawling ranches, dirt roads that stretch to the horizon, and the darkest night skies. However, rural living often means being far from emergency services, stores, and healthcare. It also typically has the lowest housing costs but the fewest amenities. 

Want to learn more about the state of New Mexico? Considering a move to another state? Check out our city and state guides.  

Ready to move to New Mexico? There’s no better time to request a quote. 

Working with a professional moving company like Mayflower can take the hassle out of long-distance moves to New Mexico. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. Mayflower’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more. 

When you’re ready to make a move, our blog offers a wealth of ideas to streamline your move and help you settle in. And our digital magazine, Welcome HOME, can help simplify and streamline your move.