The third-largest city in New Mexico, Rio Rancho is surrounded by scenic desert landscapes and views of the Sandia Mountains. It has emerged as an alternative to nearby Albuquerque, attracting numerous residents with a high quality of life and plentiful amenities.
The rapidly growing city boasts good schools and a reputation as one of the safest places in the state. Family incomes are well above the state median, while housing costs are still modest.
The Next Best
Hunter Mill, Virginia
Hunter Mill, Virginia
Rio Rancho has also been surging economically in the past decade. By far the area’s largest employer is Intel, which has a $2 billion facility located here. But other employers include major companies like Hewlett Packard and Walmart, as well as schools like University of New Mexico West Campus and Central New Mexico Community College. — Sergei Klebnikov

 

Money magazine has just come out with their top 50 list of best cities to live in America. Rio Rancho made the list at #30! And it's no surprise to anyone who lives here as to why.

What makes Rio Rancho such a fantastic place to live? The amazing scenery is one big reason. The surrounding desert and picturesque Sandia mountains make for a scenic view that can't be beat. People also find that Rio Rancho is a great alternative to living in Albuquerque, as it also enjoys a wide range of amenities and high quality of life.

Rio Rancho also boast a healthy economy and outstanding schools, along with being one of the safest cities in the state. Intel is the largest employer in the city, with a $2 billion facility located here. You'll also find other major employers such as Walmart and Hewlett Packard. Higher education is provided by the University of New Mexico West Campus and Central New Mexico Community College.

The shopping and dining options are also outstanding in Rio Rancho. You'll find plenty of local stores and artisans that create Southwestern arts and crafts. And just a short drive away is the Cottonwood Mall, with more than 135 retailers.

Since the scenery is such a huge draw, you'll certainly enjoy it in the dozens of parks and bike paths, along with 6 dog parks, 5 maintained trails, and 4 aquatic centers.

Rio Rancho Public Schools atke care of 18 schools. You can chose from two regular high schools and two alternative high schools, plus four middle schools, 10 elementary schools and one preschool.

Rio Rancho Facts

Population: 95,594

Clear Days Per Year: 278

Median Family Income: $72,807

High School Graduation Rate: 81.7%

Median Home Price: $199,250

Average Commute: 27 min

Projected Job Growth 2017–2022: 8.35%

Home Price/Income: 2.7x

If living in Rio Rancho sounds good to you, why not start searching for the home of your dream in one of the best cities to live in America. Search homes for sale in Rio Rancho now!

HOT HOME LISTING OF THE WEEK!

3620 Monte Vista Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM  $330,000

3 Bedrooms/ 2 Bathrooms (2 full, 0 partial) / 1590 Square Feet

Vintage beauty in the heart of NOB HILL!! Vintage feel in harmony with modern elements. This updated and remodeled classic home features a versatile floor plan with 3BDRs/2BAs plus two living areas, an office/study, second kitchenette and second entrance. Desirable URBAN location is close to shopping, restaurants, parks, Nob Hill, UNM and transportation!

Contact the Sandi Pressley team for additional details! 

Get your Morning Inspiration with the Sandi Pressley Team