7 Best Towns In New Mexico For Retirees
New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment for a reason. It’s a magnet for artists and art lovers; the state's very landscape and sunsets are works of art themselves. The romance of the Old West can still be found in the raw beauty of the land, the laid-back lifestyle, and the blending of all cultures. Aside from its obvious beauty, there are many perks to being a retiree in New Mexico, including affordable housing, quality healthcare, and many social security tax exemptions. These are seven of the best towns in New Mexico for those in their retirement years!
Farmington
For retirees who are reluctant to leave the changing seasons behind, Farmington may be for you. Even on the hottest of summer days, this sunny high desert climate will bring pleasant mornings, and your cozy winter clothes will come in handy every winter. You may even see some snow.
The cost of living in Farmington is 15% below the national average, and, like much of New Mexico, the crime rate is above the national average.
There’s plenty to do in this town of under 50,000. The outdoor enthusiast will enjoy Chokecherry Canyon, as well as many other wilderness trails, where horseback riding, off-highway vehicles (OHVs), and hiking are available. True to New Mexico’s artistic vibe, you’ll find museums, art galleries, and a vibrant scene in its historic downtown.
Take comfort in knowing that Level III trauma care is available at the San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington, and a new hospital is scheduled to open in late 2025. Many independent and assisted living communities can also be found here.
Roswell
Roswell has a sizable retiree population along with plenty of amenities geared towards seniors. The hot, dry air may be just what you’re looking for after years in the cold north.
The low housing costs make it an attractive and affordable option. It’s a great place for families and, therefore, an excellent place for grandchildren to visit. From the abundance of outdoor recreation to the thrill of UFO legends and festivals, there are plenty of activities to keep them interested. The arts are not forgotten, with museums and galleries in abundance. Two hospitals serve Roswell: Eastern New Mexico Medical Center and Lovelace Regional Medical Center. The healthcare, aerospace, and energy sectors significantly contribute to Roswell's strong economy. Roswell is a close-knit, friendly community with a small-town feel.
Alamogordo
If you chase sunshine and warmth, Alamogordo may be the place for you. With summer highs in the mid-90s and winter highs in the upper 50s, you’ll be comfortable all year. Affordable housing is a big draw to his politically conservative town, which has a hospital and three urgent care centers.
Located in south-central New Mexico, this town of 31,000 boasts the world's largest pistachio, its proximity to the White Sands National Park, and the renowned Museum of Space History.
This is a place for seniors who like a quiet, unrushed lifestyle. If outdoor activities and beautiful sunsets are high on your list of desires, you’ll feel right at home. If you’re looking for a more active social life and art scene, you can get involved in Alamogordo Mainstreet, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the downtown.
Truth or Consequences
You’ll need your sweaters and your swimsuits to live in Truth or Consequences, a small town in the southwestern part of the state. There are not four seasons, but rather three. The summer is hot and dry from April to June and hot and wet in the July monsoon season. Winter is from October to March and has mild and sunny days and cold to very cold nights.
An abundance of hot springs is a big draw to the community. A hospital, numerous clinics, and a VA hospital make it easy to get health care. There is also a senior center and a variety of activities to keep you active.
Because this town of around 8,000 is a small resort city, there is plenty to do downtown, where galleries line the streets. Once a month, the popular Saturday Art Hop brings visitors and residents together to enjoy the quintessential southwest New Mexico vibe. Spaceport America, "the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport", is located here. Tours are available. Housing is affordable in Truth or Consequences, with rent under $1,000 and the average home under $200,000.
White Rock
Named the “Happiest Small Town in America”, White Rock has one of the lowest crime rates in the state. It’s also the gateway to three national parks.
This town, with a population under 6,000, is located in the north-central part of the state. Housing costs are higher than in other New Mexico towns, but still affordable.
Many neighborhoods are highly walkable, with access to parks. There’s an energetic senior center with hobby and socializing groups. Nearby hospitals and senior care services are readily available, although some medical concerns may need a trip to Los Alamos, eight miles away, or Santa Fe, 35 miles away.
White Rock boasts a small-town atmosphere and a strong sense of community spirit. They have an active art scene with classes, galleries, and a drop-in art activity center.
The outdoor beauty of White Rock makes it an incredible place for hiking and outdoor recreation. They have recently invested in a new library and visitors center. It has a lower-than-average crime rate, so if safety, community, and a high quality of life, living in natural beauty, are what you are looking for, White Rock may be for you.
Rio Rancho
Frequently listed among the best places to live, Rio Rancho is worth considering. The crime rate is below both the national and state levels, making it a safe community. Its proximity to Albuquerque means the University of New Mexico’s health care is only 15 miles away. If you’re looking for amenities close to a big city while still living in a small town atmosphere, Rio Rancho is the place to go.
Fairwinds, voted Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living by U.S. News and World Report, is located in Rio Rancho, as are many other over-55 and senior living options. Like all New Mexico locations, outdoor recreation is the cornerstone of the lifestyle. The climate is dry, with moderate winter nights that can dip below freezing, making it desirable for those who wish to experience a change of seasons.
Moreover, you don’t need to travel for cultural events as art shows and festivals are held year-round, such as the Park in the Park Car Show. There’s even a metaphysical art gallery for surreal, visionary, and fantasy art!
Artesia
A very reasonable cost of living and a low crime rate make Artesia a desirable place to retire. Winters are a bit warmer than other places in the state, making nine months of the year a true temperate climate. The temperature in the summer months can get to the upper 90s.
Most residents own their own homes, which contributes to the town's stability; however, there are also senior apartments and assisted living facilities available. Artesia General Hospital is located in the city. Meals on Wheels, active senior centers, and adult day care are available.
Artesia Main Street is a fun area for business and art. They are proud of the diversity of their MainStreet District, showcasing eleven larger-than-life statues that depict the history of Artesia through bronze art.
The Ocotillo Performing Arts Center is home to touring shows, music, children’s productions, dancing, education, and artistic and cultural opportunities for all ages. An aquatic center, plenty of parks for walks and hiking, and outstanding natural beauty make this town an attractive retirement spot.
New Mexico is for those who don’t like to be cooped up. Whether you want to get out and explore nature or just sit back and marvel at its beauty, all is possible in New Mexico. Whatever your desired climate, desert, mountain, hot, cool, or even snow, you can find a town with these conditions. Chances are, the vista will inspire you, and your inner artist will emerge, making your retirement years uplifting and refreshing. New Mexico, there’s a place for you.
