Albuquerque, NM, is a fascinating city with its rich history, Southwestern culture, and stunning natural beauty. From its picturesque landscapes and mild climate to its thriving arts scene and delicious cuisine, Albuquerque offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the charming neighborhood of Barelas, the bustling Downtown area, or the historic charm of Old Town, Albuquerque has a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle.
If you’re not sure where in Albuquerque to call home, we’ve got you covered. At Redfin, we’ve gathered a list of 10 popular Albuquerque neighborhoods to consider living in this year. Whether you’re looking to buy a cozy desert retreat or rent an apartment in Albuquerque, read on to check out these popular neighborhoods.
1. Barelas
Barelas is a historic neighborhood just south of Downtown Albuquerque. This area is home to several museums and attractions including the National Hispanic Cultural Center, the Wheels Museum, and ABQ BioPark Zoo. Also you can find hidden gems like the Rail Yards Market, a seasonal farmers market with local vendors, and Tingley Drive Southern Bosque Trailhead. Barelas is surrounded by several parks, including the Barelas Railroad Park, which offers residents a peaceful retreat in the midst of the city. When it comes to housing, Barelas features a variety of options, including charming bungalows, stucco-style homes with adobe accents, and traditional Pueblo Revival designs.
Median Sale Price: $287,000
Homes for Sale in Barelas | Apartments for Rent in Barelas
2. Downtown
Downtown is located in the heart of the city and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and bustling streets. It’s home to several major attractions such as the KiMo Theatre, and the Albuquerque Convention Center. The neighborhood is also dotted with beautiful parks and plazas, including Robinson Park and Civic Plaza, which is an open air plaza that hosts events and performances. Additionally, Downtown Albuquerque has a rich history, with several historic Pueblo Revival-style buildings. The housing in Downtown primarily consists of modern condos and apartments, many of which are historic buildings converted into lofts and living spaces.
Median Sale Price: $310,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,579
Homes for Sale in Downtown | Apartments for Rent in Downtown
3. Old Town
Old Town is located just west of downtown and is the cultural heart of Albuquerque. The area has a rich history, quaint streets, and charming adobe buildings, all centered around the iconic Old Town Plaza, dating back to 1706. Major attractions in the neighborhood include the San Felipe de Neri Church, one of the cities oldest buildings, the Plaza Vieja enclave, and the Albuquerque Museum, home to plenty of exhibits. There are also several parks, such as Tiguex Park and Romero Street Park, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities. The housing types in Old Town mainly consist of traditional adobe homes with distinctive Southwestern architectural styles.
Median Sale Price: $660,000
Homes for Sale in Old Town | Apartments for Rent in Old Town
4. Near North Valley
Near North Valley is located north of downtown Albuquerque. There is plenty that defines this neighborhood including the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Graves Park, and proximity to major highways. Near North Valley offers a variety of housing types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartment complexes. The architectural styles in the neighborhood range from traditional adobe homes to modern designs.
Median Sale Price: $300,000
Homes for Sale in Near North Valley | Apartments for Rent in Near North Valley
5. Nob Hill
East of downtown is the eclectic and charming neighborhood – Nob Hill. This neighborhood is home to numerous unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as the iconic Space Ship UFO house. It’s also near the University of New Mexico campus, making it easily accessible to downtown. Nob Hill is bisected by Central Ave SE, a stretch of the famous Route 66, where you’ll find plenty of diners, restaurants, coffee shops, and other landmarks. When it comes to housing options in Nob Hill, the neighborhood is known for its charming bungalow-style homes and mid-century modern designs, in addition to apartments and townhouses.
Median Sale Price: $427,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,350 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,200
Homes for Sale in Nob Hill | Apartments for Rent in Nob Hill
6. North Albuquerque Acres
North Albuquerque Acres is located in the northeastern part of Albuquerque and is primarily a residential neighborhood. It offers breathtaking views of the Sandia Mountains and easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities such as the hiking and biking trails La Luz Trailhead and Pino Trailhead. This neighborhood is also known for its spacious homes and large lots, ranging from single-family homes to luxury estates.
Median Sale Price: $888,000
Homes for Sale in North Albuquerque Acres | Apartments for Rent in North Albuquerque Acres
7. Sawmill Area
The Sawmill Area is located just north of Old Town and has plenty to offer its residents. This neighborhood is home to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum of Albuquerque, and Sawmill Park. Make sure to also explore Sawmill Market, warehouse-turned-food hall featuring a courtyard and local restaurants and bars. If you’re looking to live in Sawmill Area, the housing types vary from historic homes to modern condos.
Median Sale Price: $355,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,072 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,237
Homes for Sale in Sawmill Area | Apartments for Rent in Sawmill Area
8. University Heights
Situated near the University of New Mexico, University Heights offers convenient access to various amenities such as restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers. The nearby Frontier Restaurant and the University Stadium are popular attractions in the area, contributing to the lively atmosphere and community feel. University Heights offers a mix of housing types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.
Median Sale Price: $226,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,295
Homes for Sale in University Heights | Apartments for Rent in University Heights
9. Uptown
Uptown is in the eastern part of Albuquerque and is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood is home to several major attractions, including the ABQ Uptown shopping mall and the Winrock Town Center. Uptown also offers beautiful parks and recreational areas, such as Tom Bolack Park and Jerry Cline Park. When it comes to housing in Uptown, you can find single-family homes, townhouses, and condos, in architectural styles ranging from modern and contemporary designs to more traditional New Mexico style homes.
Median Sale Price: $287,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,435 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,675
Homes for Sale in Uptown | Apartments for Rent in Uptown
10. Ventana Ranch
Ventana Ranch is primarily a residential neighborhood with scenic views and suburban feel. The neighborhood offers easy access to hiking and biking trails in the nearby Petroglyph National Monument. Ventana Ranch is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including Ventana Ranch Park and the nearby Paseo de la Mesa Trail. You can find a variety of housing types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, in styles like modern designs to Southwest-inspired exteriors.
Median Sale Price: $322,000
Homes for Sale in Ventana Ranch | Apartments for Rent in Ventana Ranch
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during September 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2023.
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