New Mexico is a southwestern state in the southwestern United States. It’s one of the Mountain states and shares the Four Corners area with Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. Known for its history, New Mexico is considered a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is a prominent tourist destination because of its rich and diverse culture and some of the southwest’s most scenic views. Before you decide to move to New Mexico, here are a few things you should consider.
The Pros of Living In New Mexico
Archaeological District
New Mexico has what is considered the most impressive collection of archaeological sites in North America. Preservation of this historic culture and artifacts is a priority tasked to multiple government and private organizations, including; New Mexico Historic Preservation Division, the Center for New Mexico Archaeology, and the New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies. These organizations are working to preserve archeological districts like Taos Plaza, one of the oldest continually inhabited communities in North America, or Chaco Culture National Historical Park, with ruins dating back almost 15,000 years.
The Great Outdoors
New Mexico is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. Enjoy some of the best national parks in the US. Places like Valles Caldera, a volcanic eruption site that created a 13-mile wide depression, or El Malpais, another volcanic landscape with cinder cones, lava tubes, and sandstone bluffs to explore. New Mexico offers hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails and some of the best rock climbing for those who love and outdoor adventure.
Entertainment
New Mexico has a great deal to offer people interested in entertainment. There is no lack of nightlife or day events to keep guests and residents busy during any given week. This includes countless festivals and events, all with a distinctive local twist. The Albuquerque International Baloon Festival, the 9 Big Annual Music Festivals, and the 9 Annual Food and Wine Festivals are worth checking out. Enjoy the music, the food, and the theater. New Mexico has truly become a destination state for people who love to experience new cultures and the finer things of life.
Food & Wine
New Mexico is known for its outstanding cuisine and wine selections. It has many fine-dining restaurants with gourmet meals and elegant wine bars. New Mexico also has a number of vineyards and wineries that produce excellent wines. Wineries such as Albuquerque-based Gruet Winery and Santa Fe’s Haak Vineyard and Winery are just two of the many businesses that have made New Mexico wine a popular selection.
One favorite type of New Mexico specialty is the Hatch chile relish. This flavorful dish is made of grilled, sun-dried peppers, pickled in vinegar and spices. The peppers are cooked slowly in the relish and serve as the base for the highly-flavored chutney.
The Cons of Living In New Mexico
Traffic in Albuquerque
With the number of visitors increasing every year, Albuquerque has growing traffic congestion. Most of the city’s traffic isn’t bad. But, on Interstate 40, you can find yourself trapped in rush hour traffic. Traveling to the west side of Albuquerque can also be a real headache. And, this is how Albuquerque made the list of America’s Worst Traffic Cities.
High Crime Rate
The crime rate in New Mexico is more than double the national average. There are several areas in New Mexico where you should be especially careful. Areas with high poverty rates tend to have the highest crime rates. Gallup, New Mexico, is considered to be the most dangerous city in the state.
Limited Job Opportunities
Compared to other states, New Mexico’s unemployment rates can be very high. The job market is very competitive. If you are searching for work in New Mexico, consider temporary or seasonal work. Many businesses adapt very quickly to an increased number of shoppers or tourists.
Lower Income
According to, The Center for American Progress, New Mexico is the 49th highest state for people below the poverty line. In general, most of those living in poverty in New Mexico attend failing schools, lack job opportunities, and live in rural areas.
New Mexico is an exciting and warm place where the scenery surrounds you. Take some time to explore the state. Take a close look at the natural wonder it holds, and find that perfect place for you.
