If you love the culture, art, and history in the city of Albuquerque but need a peaceful suburban space to call home, these suburbs should be on your radar. After evaluating various factors like safety, housing, amenities, and natural beauty, we’ve identified the best 11 suburbs in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Each of these communities offers a unique blend of tranquillity, accessibility to the city, and a welcoming environment. Let’s explore the top suburbs that make Albuquerque a great place to live.
1. Cedar Crest
- Total Crimes per 100k: 868
- Average Commute Time: 18 minutes
Cedar Crest takes the top spot for several reasons, especially its variety of homes like spacious craftsman, bungalow, and ranch-style houses. For art lovers, the Tinkertown Museum is a must-visit, showcasing New Mexico folk art.
Cedar Crest is also a favourite among nature enthusiasts who enjoy the stunning views and challenging hiking trails at the Gutierrez Canyon Open Space. The suburban setting offers a peaceful, scenic environment while being only a short drive from downtown Albuquerque.
2. Los Ranchos de Albuquerque
- Median Household Income: $63,163
- Median Home Value: $358,700
Los Ranchos de Albuquerque is one of the most desirable suburbs in Albuquerque due to its combination of culture, affordability, and beautiful homes. The village is known for its spacious Mediterranean and adobe-style homes, which offer a lot of charm.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy a picnic or stroll along the Rio Grande at Alameda Open Space. Additionally, the Growers Market & Arts and Crafts Fair offers a lively community gathering spot with fresh produce, live music, and local artists.
3. Corrales
- Median Household Income: $80,840
- Median Home Value: $427,700
Corrales ranks third on our list, with one of the highest median household incomes in the area. The suburb is famous for its spacious adobe, ranch, and Mediterranean homes, perfect for families or anyone looking for a bit more space.
The local community is vibrant, with events like swing dancing and book readings at the Corrales Community Library. If you enjoy an active social life, Corrales is perfect for you.
4. San Ysidro
- Total Crimes per 100k: 1,026
- Average Commute Time: 20 minutes
San Ysidro is one of the safest areas in Albuquerque, with a total crime rate of just 1,026 per 100,000 people. This small, peaceful village provides a serene rural atmosphere and a close-knit community of only 2,000 residents.
Residents of San Ysidro enjoy Mediterranean and craftsman-style homes, and the suburb’s location is only about 45 minutes from Albuquerque’s shopping, dining, and nightlife. For those who prefer a rural lifestyle without being too far from the city, this is an ideal choice.
5. Paradise Hills
- Unemployment Rate: 4.9%
- Median Household Income: $71,200
Paradise Hills offers a mix of Mediterranean, ranch, and bungalow-style homes, making it a great spot for both families and individuals seeking quiet suburban living. The neighborhood is perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of green spaces like Paradise Hills Park.
Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the Desert Greens Golf Course, while the close-knit community provides a sense of belonging. Its proximity to Albuquerque ensures that residents enjoy the peace of suburbia without sacrificing urban convenience.
6. North Valley (Tie)
- Average Commute Time: 20 minutes
- Median Home Value: $185,700
North Valley is tied for sixth place and stands out for its low average commute time and spacious homes. The suburb’s adobe and Mediterranean-style homes are highly sought after, and the area is home to La Ladera Park, an ideal place for outdoor relaxation.
The North Valley Library is also a great resource for avid readers, offering books, events, and a community hub. It’s a peaceful yet well-connected area perfect for those looking for a balance of urban and suburban life.
7. Peralta (Tie)
- Median Home Value: $146,600
- Median Household Income: $48,684
Peralta offers a variety of homes, including ranch, Mediterranean, and craftsman-style properties. It’s ideal for nature lovers, with access to walking trails along the Rio Grande. Residents of Peralta are only about 20 miles away from all the action in downtown Albuquerque, making it a great option for those who want a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to city amenities. Peralta Elementary School adds to the community’s family-friendly vibe.
8. Los Lunas
- Median Household Income: $51,105
- Total Amenities: 837
Los Lunas ranks eighth due to its vast number of amenities and its welcoming community. The suburb offers a mix of Mediterranean, craftsman, and bungalow-style homes that are perfect for buyers looking for affordable options. For nature lovers, Valley View Park provides a scenic spot for peaceful walks. The Los Lunas Community Library is another draw, offering a variety of programs and resources for all ages. This quiet, friendly community is just a short drive from the busy city of Albuquerque, making it a desirable place to live.
9. Jarales
- Total Crimes per 100k: 1,870
- Average Commute Time: 22 minutes
Jarales may have a higher crime rate compared to others, but it makes up for it with its charming rural atmosphere and low average commute time. Known for its riverside location, the suburb offers large ranch-style homes with plenty of outdoor space.
The community centre hosts a variety of events, and the proximity to the Rio Grande makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and fishing. It’s a great choice for those looking for a peaceful retreat not far from Albuquerque.
10. Bosque Farms (Tie)
- Median Home Value: $201,900
- Total Amenities: 180
Bosque Farms offers spacious homes in Mediterranean, craftsman, and ranch styles, ideal for families looking for room to grow. With a strong sense of community, this suburb hosts events like the Bosque Farms Community Fair, where residents can meet and get involved.
For book lovers, the local Bosque Farms Library offers a selection of new reads and events to keep the community engaged. With its variety of local amenities, Bosque Farms is perfect for those who enjoy suburban living with a touch of community spirit.
11. Mountainair (Tie)
- Average Commute Time: 19 minutes
- Total Amenities: 69
Mountainair ranks tenth for its serene suburban lifestyle and its commitment to providing a peaceful environment for families and individuals alike. Homebuyers can choose from a variety of adobe and Mediterranean-style homes.
The suburb is home to the Ranger Station Picnic Ground, an excellent place for nature lovers who enjoy picnics and outdoor activities. The local Mountainair Public Library is also a hub for community events and a great place for residents to connect.
Conclusion
The best suburbs in Albuquerque offer a mix of natural beauty, rich cultural offerings, and strong community ties. Whether you prefer the quiet rural setting of San Ysidro or the vibrant community of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, there is something for everyone.
These suburbs are perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful lifestyle that still offers easy access to the conveniences and excitement of Albuquerque. With great schools, affordable housing, and a variety of amenities, the suburbs of Albuquerque provide the best of both worlds.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
