Top 10 Safest Places to Live in New Mexico (2023)

New Mexico is one of the best states to consider if you’re searching for a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle. With its picturesque landscapes and extraordinary desert dwellings, the state has a lot to offer. However, some cities within New Mexico, such as Albuquerque, have a reputation for high crime rates. The good news is that there are still numerous safe places to live within the state. Look at the top ten safest places to live in New Mexico.

Safest Places to Live in New Mexico

Corrales

Corrales, situated in southern New Mexico’s Sandoval County, is considered the safest place to live. With a population of just 8,329, Corrales boasts a meagre crime rate of 79% below the national average. The town is perfect for anyone seeking a stress-free lifestyle surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Corrales is located in an area with plenty of Russian olive trees and well-known bird-watching spots, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Los Alamos

Los Alamos, a town known for being the home of Los Alamos National Laboratories, is considered one of the safest places to reside in New Mexico. The city has a population of 13,179 and boasts a total crime rate of 72% below the national average. Los Alamos played a significant role during World War II by serving as the birthplace of the nuclear bomb, and it continues to serve as a vital scientific research centre today. Apart from its scientific contributions, Los Alamos is a thriving city that caters to families and offers excellent amenities. Additionally, it’s located near Sante Fe and Albuquerque, making it a great place to live.

Anthony

Anthony is a charming city in New Mexico known for its southwestern border vibe and being a safe place to reside. With a population of 9,360, this small city is just 18 miles north of El Paso, Texas. What’s more, Anthony boasts a crime rate that is 68% lower than the national average, making it one of the safest cities in New Mexico. Plenty of local attractions keep residents entertained, such as the White Sands National Park, the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, and a waterpark. For those looking to purchase a home in Anthony, the median home price is $222,929.

Lovington

Nestled in Lea County, Lovington is a serene suburban community with a population of 11,009. The town has an impressively low crime rate of 35% below the national average. Despite its small size, Lovington is a close-knit community where locals unite to support one another. Visitors can enjoy the annual fair and explore the Western Heritage Museum, home to fascinating Titanic artefacts. What’s more, the median home price in Lovington is a steal at just $156,869.

Grants

Located in Cibola County, Grants is a city situated about 78 miles to the west of Albuquerque. With a population of 9,163, this peaceful city boasts a crime rate that is 33% lower than the national average, making it one of the safest cities in New Mexico. Being situated along the Trails of the Ancients Byway, Grants is an important archaeological site related to the Puebloans, Navajo, Ute, and Apache peoples. Historically, the town’s economy has depended mainly on mining, reflected in the Grants Mining Museum. Other museums, such as the Western New Mexico Aviation Heritage Museum and the Cibola Arts Council, which features an early version of a Ford Model T Roadster, are popular attractions in the city.

Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, located just outside of Albuquerque, is considered one of the safest and most livable cities in New Mexico. With a population of 104,046, this fast-growing community boasts a total crime rate of 28% below the national average. Rio Rancho is a well-maintained suburban area with many recreational and educational opportunities. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Sandia Mountains and caves, while students can attend the West Campus of the University of New Mexico, which is located in Rio Rancho.

Raton

Located in northeastern New Mexico, Raton serves as the county seat of Colfax County. With a population of 6,041, this charming town boasts breathtaking green mountain landscapes, providing easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. While Raton’s crime rate is slightly above the national average, it is still comparable to the state average. The city’s economy has been historically linked to coal mining, and many former mineshafts have been transformed into museums, adding to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Alamogordo

Nestled close to the Chihuahuan Desert and the Sacramento Mountains, Alamogordo is a serene and sun-kissed town. With a population of 31,384, the city boasts an average crime rate compared to the rest of New Mexico. The city is home to some of the most popular tourist spots in the area, including the White Sands National Monument and the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Additionally, Alamogordo is located near the Holloman Air Force Base and was the site of the first-ever atomic bomb test in 1945.

Ruidoso

Nestled in the heart of Lincoln County, Ruidoso is a charming mountain resort town that will take your breath away. With a population of 8,029, Ruidoso boasts a crime rate slightly below the state average, making it one of the safest places to live in New Mexico. Ruidoso exudes a Western movie vibe with its lush green mountains, horseback riding, skiing, and hiking trails. Moreover, Ruidoso offers year-round golfing and casino gambling on the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation. If you’re looking for a place to call home, the median home price in Ruidoso is $315,446.

Aztec

Located in northwestern New Mexico, Aztec serves as the county seat of San Juan County. This small yet charming city is renowned for its safety, boasting a crime rate slightly below the national average and on par with the state average. One of the major attractions in Aztec is the Aztec Ruins National Monument, situated on the city’s north side. Additionally, Aztec offers residents and visitors over 130 acres of parks and trails. The median home price in Aztec is $226,920, making it an affordable option for settling down.

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