There are nearly a half million residents of Albuquerque, whose median age is 35. Their average household income is approximately $39,000 per year, and they enjoy an affordable housing market with a median value of $285,000. The largest employment sectors here are retail, professional services and manufacturing. There are a number of outstanding public and private schools for children, and the area is home to a number of colleges and universities. Among the larger schools in the area are the University of New Mexico, the University of Phoenix-Albuquerque, Parks College and Franklin College.

Albuquerque hosts a number of diverse activities throughout the year. One of the most well known is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This is an internationally renowned event that delights spectators and offers its competitors a chance to qualify for the World Championships. During this event, the skies of Albuquerque are awash with color as hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies.

Summertime's annual All-American Baseball Game is a beloved tradition. This event brings the top thirty high schools senior baseball players in the country together in an East versus West all-star game. With ticket prices starting at $5, this is a popular family event, and a chance for future Major League players to get their first close-up on ESPN. Locals also enjoy Sizzlin Summerfest, a series of free outdoor concerts and special events in the downtown center.

For those who like to like to get outdoors in their free time, Sandia Peak offers some breathtaking recreational opportunities. The easiest way up to the top is to take a leisurely chair ride. From the top you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of 11,000 miles of New Mexico below. Mountain bikers can bring their bikes with them in the chairs for a thrilling ride to the base. There are twenty four miles of trails to choose from, and a full service bike shop for rentals or repairs. There are also organized races for beginner and intermediate riders. In the winter, this area turns into a snow-filled wonderland. While some trails are still available to hikers and mountain bikers, thirty trails open for skiing and snowboarding. There are four chair lifts to keep things moving and a Mitey Mite area for children to learn a new sport.

Of course, locals here love to golf. The city maintains four public courses in convenient locations throughout the city. And with the clear sunny skies of the southwest, golfers can take to the links 364 days a year. The courses are closed on Christmas day.

Albuquerque also features award winning restaurants that suit any taste and budget. Many local restaurants highlight the unique cuisine of the southwest, including liberal use of both mild and hot native chiles. Southwestern cuisine is unique, in that in combines the flavors of Native America and Mexico and wraps it up with a modern flair. You are likely to find dishes that highlight the use of corn, especially blue corn. Some diners might be fearful of having their dishes served too spicy. But if they take a leap of faith, it will be an adventure of discovery to learn that that some of these chiles are just as mild as a garden variety bell pepper.

Albuquerque is a thriving and economically stable city with a fun mentality. Its residents are hard working and friendly and don't often take themselves too seriously. In all, this is a lively community that epitomizes the distinctiveness of the American southwest.


If you're thinking of moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico, our relocation packet is yours for the asking!