Some people think that New Mexico is a hassle to live in, while others enjoy the sunny weather, beautiful landscapes and friendly residents. Either way, it’s good to know that New Mexico isn’t all chores and dust. You can find some of the best trails and recreation spots in the state. When you’re in New Mexico, you can get up to some of the greatest hikes in the world.
As a business owner living in New Mexico, you have a lot of reasons to love your home state. It doesn’t matter if you’re a ranching family or a tech company, New Mexico has you covered with beautiful landscapes, great weather, and a strong economy. But living in New Mexico doesn’t come without challenges. Here are a few of the pros and cons that help you make your choice as to whether or not you should live here.
I am still here. New Mexico is a great place for jobs, but I think it’s a terrible place for a career.
Before you move to New Mexico, there are a few things you should know.
Allow me to outline the advantages and disadvantages of living in New Mexico.
Since any location that is known as “The Land Enchantment.” It has to be excellent!
Perhaps you’re thinking whether New Mexico is a suitable location to retire to.
Or maybe you’re searching for a new place to live. I’m in a new location. To begin a new chapter in your life.
In any event, relocating to New Mexico is a significant undertaking.
As a result, it is critical to comprehend the main advantages and disadvantages of residing in New Mexico. Before you make a move!
So, let’s get started…
I may get compensation for purchases made via links in this article at no cost to you.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Living in New Mexico
Our starting point is the following list of ten items.
To answer the question: What is it like to live in New Mexico?
Before you move, consider the following points…
- Culture-dense
- Wine and good cuisine
- There are many leisure opportunities.
- Natural splendor in abundance
- Low living costs
- The economy is in a slump, and employment prospects are few.
- K-12 education is of poor quality.
- Roads that are in poor condition
- Life is of dubious quality.
- At a height of 5,000 feet, the weather is windy and dry.
But there’s a lot more to it. Because we’ll go into each of these New Mexico advantages and disadvantages in a minute.
Let’s start with the major question on your mind…
Is It Safe To Live In New Mexico?
You should be aware of the following before relocating to New Mexico:
Living in New Mexico Has Its Advantages
First and foremost, this state is full with personality. That’s a low-key approach. With a rich culture from another epoch.
That may be enough to convince you that New Mexico is just what you’re searching for!
Furthermore, the state’s scenery is breathtaking. There are many wonderful things to do, see, and discover in New Mexico.
Along the journey, you may eat and drink. Some of New Mexico’s most spectacular and one-of-a-kind attractions.
The best part? You may have your own life in New Mexico. For a reasonable cost of living.
On the other hand, I want you to go in blindfolded.
And be aware of the drawbacks that exist in “The Land Of Enchantment.”
New Mexico’s Negative Qualities
For many people, the quality of life in New Mexico is satisfactory. However, this is not the case for everyone.
Whether it’s the state’s high crime rates, generational poverty, or drug use. Many adults’ potential is hampered as a result of this.
The difficulties of living in New Mexico do not end there.
Because children have difficulties as well. Attempting to accomplish. And you’ll get off to a fantastic start in life.
Dealing with a public education system that isn’t up to standard.
At the same time, inhabitants are confronted with these difficulties. In addition, the transportation infrastructure is degrading. New Mexico’s economy has been slowed.
The employment market is being restricted, and equal opportunity is being denied. For the people of the state.
Okay. Now that we’ve covered the good points, let’s move on to the low points.
It’s time to get down to business. The ten advantages and disadvantages of living in New Mexico.
Culture-dense
New Mexico’s culture appeals to me in three ways.
First and foremost, there is history.
Then there’s the issue of diversity.
Finally, there are customs.
Let’s have a look at them one by one…
Living in New Mexico has a long and illustrious history.
The oldest cities in the United States were founded before the country as a whole.
This is also true in New Mexico. Since Santa Fe, the state’s capital. It was founded in the early 1600s.
Santa Fe is the only city in the United States to have this distinction. Being the oldest state capitol in the United States.
As a result, New Mexico has had plenty of time to develop its identity. As an area, it has a long and illustrious history.
In New Mexico, there is a lot of cultural diversity.
The state’s cultural variety is another factor to consider.
Because of the individuals that live in this area. Influences from all around the globe are present.
Native Americans have lived in this area for over 1,000 years. Hispanics and Mexicans have lived in the United States for millennia.
Aside from these civilizations, New Mexico’s population contains a diverse range of ethnic groups.
Currently, more than a third of New Mexico’s population is Hispanic. With a significant Native American population.
Then there’s the addition of African Americans to fill out the mix.
New Mexico Living Traditions
The history and variety of New Mexico have resulted in a plethora of customs. Architecture, art, cuisine, music, language, and religion are all examples of this.
They are an important element of the state’s identity. Many of them have been handed down from generation to generation.
You may observe this in the state’s unique culture.
- Houses made of adobe
- Churches with a missionary bent
- Luminaries for the holidays
- mariachi music that is alive and well
- Hatch chile peppers are delicious.
In addition, there are many traditional festivals and festivities. Every year, it is held in New Mexico.
And here’s another of New Mexico’s finest features…
Great Wine And Food
Consumption of food and beverages. For many of us, it is a beloved pastime.
And there are plenty of things to choose from. To delight your taste buds. Another compelling incentive to relocate to New Mexico.
Here’s why…
Food and Life in New Mexico
The food of New Mexico is very diverse! Partly due to the diversity of civilizations.
Here are some of the popular meals and culinary customs. When you live in New Mexico…
- Burger with green chile cheese
- Rellenos de Chile
- Enchiladas
- tortillas made with blue corn
- Sopaipillas
- Ranch-style eggs
- sauce made with red chiles
This is some incredible cuisine. That you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.
Certainly not of this texture, flavor, or quality. That’s from the kitchens of New Mexico.
Furthermore, it seems that a nice beverage would complement these dishes. Isn’t that so?
This leads us to a fun fact about New Mexico that you may not know about…
New Mexico Wine and Living
Did you know that this state produces some of the best wines in the country? From the vineyards that surround the cities of the area.
Las Cruces, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe are among them.
With a climate that is distinctly high desert. There is plenty of sunlight. And there shouldn’t be too much humidity.
Grapes thrive in this area because to the soil, altitude, and warmth. Creating amazing wines with tastes you won’t find anyplace else!
And once more. New Mexico’s history is on its side.
It has a long history of producing grapes. As well as winemaking.
They’ve been around for almost 400 years.
The state’s wine-growing areas are being created. Some of the country’s oldest wineries may be found here.
So take a journey along the wine path in New Mexico. Also, try the wines made from these famous grape types. That are cultivated locally.
- Syrah
- Viognier
- Cabernet Sauvignon is a varietal of Cabernet Fran
- Riesling
- Zinfandel
Make sure you’re ready to live in this state. You will not be disappointed!
And there’s more. Another advantage of living in New Mexico…
There are many recreational options available.
New Mexico is an excellent location for outdoor activities.
Outdoor enthusiasts have a plethora of options due to the terrain (more on that later).
Such as:
- In the mountains, hiking
- Downhill skiing of the highest kind
- Mountain biking is a popular sport.
- Fishing
- Rafting on whitewater
- Climbing on the rocks
- Under the stars, camping
And then there’s the less daring. New Mexico will not let you down.
This state is ideal for families. There is a lot of enjoyment to be gained. And it’s one of the advantages and disadvantages of living in New Mexico.
Here’s a list of topics to think about. After you’ve relocated to New Mexico, you’ll need to:
- Cumbres and Toltec Picturesque Train is a scenic railroad that runs through the Cumbres and To
- Museum of UFOs from Around the World
- New Mexico’s natural history and science museum
- International hot air balloon event in Albuquerque
- New Mexico Museum of Art is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
- ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden is a botanical garden in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- The state fair of New Mexico
Next, here’s something else I love about New Mexico…
Natural Beauty In Abundance
The popularity of outdoor activities in the state has a solid explanation.
It’s the landscape’s diversity. And there’s the state’s breathtaking natural splendor.
However, the ground is partially flat in this area. In addition, it is partially mountainous. Here’s why…
The Great Plains of New Mexico are a region in the state of New Mexico.
First and foremost, the state’s eastern portion. The Great Plains around it.
The enormous high plateau of semiarid grassland is notable.
The Rio Grande River Valley in New Mexico
In addition, the Rio Grande River Valley is located in the heart of New Mexico. From Colorado to the north, it’s a long way. I’m heading into Texas from the south.
The Rio Grande Gorge was formed as a result of this. Northern New Mexico is home to this town.
The sceneries in this river valley are diverse. Deserts, grasslands, woods, meadows, mountains, and cliffs are all included.
The New Mexico Rocky Mountains
Finally, there are mountain ranges in this state. The Rocky Mountains are a component of them.
The Sangre de Cristo (Blood of Christ) Mountain Range is located there. Wheeler Peak may be found here. In New Mexico, this is the highest peak.
To the west of the Rio Grande, as well. The ranges of the Nacimiento and Jemez Mountains.
As a result, the terrain of New Mexico. In addition, there is a lack of population density in this state. It’s simple to go to hilly places.
Where you may take in the scenery from a new perspective. That will make you gasp for air!
And, most importantly, The weather in New Mexico is warm and bright. From spring until autumn.
So there’s no need to remain at home. Get outside and take in the scenery.
Next, one of the most compelling reasons to call New Mexico home…
Low Living Costs
Because the average cost of living in New Mexico is a significant consideration when relocating. Because it has a significant impact on your quality of life. To be honest…
New Mexico has a very low cost of living index! So, in this case, a dollar goes a long way!
Making it another another of New Mexico’s positive attributes. One of the major advantages and disadvantages of retiring in New Mexico on a tight budget.
Here’s why…
In New Mexico, the median home value is moderate.
First and foremost, according to BestPlaces.net, New Mexico’s median house value is extremely affordable.
It is approximately 14% lower than the national average in the United States.
Renting an Apartment in New Mexico
You may, on the other hand, choose to rent. Rather than purchasing a house.
According to a report published by the World Population Review. Rents are approximately 16 percent lower than national norms.
In New Mexico, you may save even more money on your housing.
Here are a few pointers. To assist you in saving money in the real estate market.
Regardless of where you choose to reside.
First and foremost, whether you need a mortgage. Consider Lending Tree if you’re looking for a low-cost online alternative.
Then there’s the decision of whether to rent or purchase. Check your credit score to see whether it’s in excellent condition.
Credit Karma allows you to check yours for free.
In New Mexico, you may get a good education at a reasonable price.
The following is another excellent method to save money in New Mexico.
Due to the fact that it is one of the few states. Where you won’t be bankrupted by higher education.
Because the cost of attending college in your own state is considerably lower. Compared to other parts of the nation.
Take a look at these New Mexico schools:
- The University of New Mexico is a public university in New Mexico.
- New Mexico State University is a public university in New Mexico.
- Eastern New Mexico University is a public university in eastern New Mexico.
Where four-year college degrees are available. It’s possible. For a lot less than most other states’ schools.
New Mexico has the second lowest in-state tuition in the nation, according to Move.org.
Only living in the state of Wyoming beats it. Also, I went to school there.
New Mexico’s Other Living Expenses
Finally, there are additional expenses to consider, such as food, health care, and transportation. Are also lower than in other parts of the nation.
Making it more inexpensive to live in New Mexico.
But here are a few of my personal favorites. For lowering the cost of living in New Mexico a bit more.
Rakuten is a good place to start. Additionally, you will get cash rebates on all of your online purchases.
Second, you should check out the Ibotta app. To economize on food. When you go to the supermarket.
Rakuten and Ibotta are two of the most popular online shopping sites. They’re a fantastic one-two punch. For the purpose of saving money. It makes no difference where you reside.
Okay. That concludes the list of five benefits of moving to New Mexico.
However, a comprehensive list of New Mexico’s advantages and disadvantages would be impossible. Without going through five reasons why you shouldn’t go to New Mexico in the first place.
To complete the ten-piece set. Let’s get started…
Job Opportunities And A Stagnant Economy
New Mexico isn’t renowned for its economic potential. The state’s unemployment rate reflects this.
It is one of the country’s tallest. And it’s a lot higher than the national average.
Furthermore, worker earnings are poor in comparison.
In addition, New Mexico’s economy lags behind that of other thriving states. Take, for example, what Texas has to offer.
The service sector accounts for a large portion of New Mexico’s GDP. Oil and natural resource exploitation also have a significant influence.
So, if you’re considering of relocating to New Mexico, here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider. Take a look at your budget and financial resources first.
It may be better for the state if you:
- Have sources of retirement income
- Work from home
- Have a job offer from a local company?
And here’s a tool that may help you assess your financial situation. Before taking any action.
It’s the Personal Capital online tool. I use it to make budgeting and investment management more manageable.
Most importantly, Personal Capital brings all of your financial information together in one location. Making life a bit less difficult.
Personal Capital is also completely free. To use and sign.
Another one of the drawbacks of living in New Mexico is…
The K-12 education system is of poor quality.
Given the current state of affairs. Economic production and education are often related.
And New Mexico doesn’t help itself in this regard. Because the state’s K-12 education system is inadequate.
For example, WalletHub recently rated New Mexico’s schools dead bottom. There are 50 states in the United States.
For the sake of a good education. Also, the educational system’s security.
If you have school-aged children, this article is for you. You’ll have to keep a careful watch on your children’s development if you live in New Mexico.
Don’t rely on the instructors to help you. Because you may be let down.
Consider setting aside money for a child’s education at a private school.
However, after they’ve completed high school, they’ll be ready for college. Take advantage of the cheap public colleges, like I just stated.
And here’s another reason why New Mexico stinks:
Bad Roads
With the exception of Albuquerque. In most parts of the state, traffic bottlenecks are uncommon.
However, there is a shortage of transportation infrastructure. Once again, the state’s economy is built on a shaky basis.
New Mexico’s urban road conditions are ranked in the lowest fourth by Motortrend. In comparison to other states.
And then there’s when you go out on the back roads in rural regions. It doesn’t get much better from here.
Slowing things down. In addition, there are fewer safe driving circumstances.
Finally, we’ll go through some of the disadvantages of residing in New Mexico. Begin to build each other up. And the end effect isn’t pretty…
Life Quality Is In Question
I examine some of the negative aspects of New Mexico’s quality of life. And categorize them as follows: crime, poverty, and drugs.
Let’s talk about it…
Rates of Criminal Activity
According to USA Today, New Mexico has one of the highest crime rates of any state. Violent crime, in particular.
It’s worth noting that crime rates are usually high. Where people are trying to make ends meet.
Rates of Poverty
Then there’s the issue of poverty. New Mexico has a lot of snow.
Poverty is inextricably linked to a failing educational system. Also, the low wages that individuals in the state may make.
As a result, almost two out of every ten people are affected. Poverty is a state of being below the poverty line. This is a staggeringly high rate.
Drug Abuse
Finally, New Mexico has a high rate of drug addiction.
According to a new WalletHub report, the state is rated extremely low. according to
- Addiction to drugs and drug usage
- Officers of the law
- Problems with health and rehabilitation
So please understand that I am not trying to drag you down. With all of the negative aspects of living in New Mexico.
They may be the worst aspects of living in New Mexico. I’m not certain. They do not, however, affect the whole population.
But, for your consideration, I’d like to offer a balanced argument.
And here’s another reason why I’m not moving to New Mexico…
At elevation, the weather is windy and dry.
Although there are many nice, warm, bright days in this state. To take advantage of in and around New Mexico. Keep in mind that the weather may be unpredictable.
To begin with, it’s very dry. There is very little humidity.
It’s also windy at times. This results in dry, dusty circumstances.
Summer days may be very hot. Winters are also very cold, with lots of snow at higher altitudes.
And while we’re on the subject of heights, be prepared.
Because towns like as Santa Fe and Taos are around 7,000 feet above sea level.
And considerably higher than Denver, dubbed “The Mile High City.” To the north, it’s just a few hours of traveling. If you’re suffering from altitude sickness.
Okay. That concludes our list of ten things to know about New Mexico.
So, let’s wrap things up with a summary.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Living in New Mexico
Are you considering relocating to New Mexico? Before you decide, consider the following advantages and disadvantages of residing in New Mexico:
- Culture-dense
- Wine and good cuisine
- There are many leisure opportunities.
- Natural splendor in abundance
- Low living costs
- The economy is in a slump, and employment prospects are few.
- K-12 education is of poor quality.
- Roads that are in poor condition
- Life is of dubious quality.
- At a height of 5,000 feet, the weather is windy and dry.
As I already said. If you’re thinking of retiring to New Mexico. Or maybe you’re searching for a new beginning in “The Land Of Enchantment.”
There are many advantages to living in New Mexico. There are also a few things to be aware of. When thinking about living in New Mexico.
So, can you answer the question: is New Mexico a decent place to live?
More information about living in New Mexico and elsewhere may be found here.
Before, During, And After Your Move: My Favorite Resources
Throughout this assessment of living in New Mexico. Some of my favorite resources were shared.
I’ve compiled a list of them for your convenience. The best part is that they are completely free.
And will guide you through the process of making the most of your money in New Mexico.
Alternatively, you may live anywhere you choose.
Disclosure & Disclaimer: I am not a licensed investment adviser, financial adviser, or tax professional. And I am not providing you with individual investment advice, financial guidance, or tax counsel. Furthermore, this website’s only purpose is information & entertainment. And we are not liable for any losses suffered by any party because of information published on this blog.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Living in New Mexico
Living in New Mexico right now can be a fun and eye-opening experience. Of course, it has its challenges. But I have to say, the advantages are big. For one, we have a lot of opportunities here. Local tech companies are booming, and there are plenty of networking opportunities. The cost of living is very reasonable, which is great if you have a family.. Read more about pros and cons of living in rio rancho, nm and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Mexico a good state to live?
New Mexico is a great state to live in. It has beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a diverse culture.
What should I know before moving to New Mexico?
New Mexico is a beautiful state with many natural resources and opportunities. Its also one of the most diverse states in the US, so you will find people from all over the world here.
Is it safe to move to New Mexico?
It is safe to move to New Mexico.
