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As the “Land of Enchantment,” New Mexico is home to stunning natural landscapes. From the ancient pueblos and red sand deserts to the rugged peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the lush expanses surrounding the Gila National Forest, there are endless places to explore in the state. If you’re looking to live close to these natural wonders, look no further than the mountain towns in New Mexico.
At Rent., we’ve gathered a list of the best New Mexico mountain towns to call home. Whether you’re looking for quaint streets lined with artisan shops, outdoor adventures right at your doorstep, or stunning views from your front porch, there’s a town for you. Let’s jump in.
1. Angel Fire
Mountain range: Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Average rent price: $1,245
Population: 710
Houses for rent in Angel Fire, NM
Apartments for rent in Angel Fire, NM
Homes for sale in Angel Fire, NM
Angel Fire is located in the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a serene and picturesque setting for residents. With a small population of just over 700 people, this town boasts a vibrant community with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year.
From skiing and snowboarding in the winter at Angel Fire Resort to mountain biking and hiking in the summer at Oeste Vista Trail, Angel Fire is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The town is also known for its beautiful parks and trails, making it perfect for those who love to explore the great outdoors.
2. Cloudcroft
Mountain range: Sacramento Mountains
Average rent price: $1,400
Population: 590
Houses for rent in Cloudcroft, NM
Apartments for rent in Cloudcroft, NM
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Cloudcroft is a quaint mountain town perched in the Sacramento Mountains. This hidden gem is home to fewer than 600 residents, offering a tight-knit community atmosphere amidst the stunning natural beauty of New Mexico. The town’s elevation provides a cool retreat from the desert heat, making it a perfect spot for hiking, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Cloudcroft is also known for its historical sites, like the Sacramento Mountains Museum, and charming downtown area, where locals and visitors can explore unique shops and restaurants. There are plenty of awesome hiking spots in the area, like Trestle Depot Recreation Area and Mexican Canyon Railroad Trestle.
3. Los Alamos
Mountain range: Jemez Mountains
Average rent price: $1,810
Population: 12,570
Houses for rent in Los Alamos, NM
Apartments for rent in Los Alamos, NM
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Los Alamos is uniquely situated in the Jemez Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a rich history that dates back to the Manhattan Project. Today, the town is known for its world-class scientific community and outdoor recreation opportunities. With a population of over 12,000, Los Alamos provides a blend of small-town feel and cosmopolitan amenities.
The surrounding mountains and forests offer endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing, making it an ideal location for those who love the outdoors. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area such as the Mitchell Trail, the Guaje Ridge Trail, and the Pueblo Canyon Rim Trail. Make sure to check out sites like the Los Alamos History Museum, the Tsankawi Prehistoric Sites, and the Bradbury Science Museum.
4. Ruidoso
Mountain range: Sierra Blanca Mountain Range
Average rent price: $1,200
Population: 7,420
Houses for rent in Ruidoso, NM
Apartments for rent in Ruidoso, NM
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Ruidoso is a charming mountain town located in the Sierra Blanca Mountain Range. Known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant community, Ruidoso offers a variety of activities, including horse racing, skiing, golfing, and hiking. The town’s population of over 7,000 people enjoys a lively downtown area with unique shops, restaurants, and events.
There are plenty of trails to check out in the town like Cedar Creek Trails, Moon Mountain, and Dude Mesa. In the winter, you can ski at places like Ruidoso Winter Park or visit Flying J Ranch, a unique attraction. Ruidoso is a one-of-a-kind mountain town in New Mexico.
5. Santa Fe
Mountain range: Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Average rent price: $2,461
Population: 83,900
Houses for rent in Santa Fe, NM
Apartments for rent in Santa Fe, NM
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Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, is renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and culinary excellence. Located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. With a population nearing 84,000, Santa Fe is the largest city on our list so there are plenty of experiences for its residents.
Santa Fe’s proximity to both mountains and the Southern Rocky Mountains forest area makes it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate the arts and culture. In the city, you’ll find the iconic Santa Fe Plaza, dating back to the early 1600s, which features historic buildings, local shops, and museums. Be sure to hike some of the popular trails like the Dale Ball Trails, La Cieneguilla Petroglyphs, and La Tierra Trailhead.
6. Silver City
Mountain range: Gila Mountains
Average rent price: $1,169
Population: 9,850
Houses for rent in Silver City, NM
Apartments for rent in Silver City, NM
Homes for sale in Silver City, NM
Silver City lies at the edge of the Gila National Forest, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Gila Mountains, like Pinos Altos Mountain and Black Peak. This town is a haven for artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed mountain lifestyle. With a population of nearly 10,000, Silver City maintains a small-town feel while offering a variety of cultural and recreational activities, like exploring the Silver City Museum and the Boston Hill Open Space.
The town’s vibrant arts scene and access to extensive outdoor recreation make Silver City an appealing choice for those looking to live in a mountain town. From exploring ancient cliff dwellings to enjoying Downtown’s galleries and cafes, Silver City has plenty to offer.
7. Taos
Mountain range: Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Average rent price: $2,728
Population: 6,370
Houses for rent in Taos, NM
Apartments for rent in Taos, NM
Homes for sale in Taos, NM
Taking the final spot on our list of mountain towns in New Mexico is Taos. A picturesque town that embodies the spirit of the Southwest, Taos is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Taos is known for its historic adobe buildings, thriving arts community, and stunning natural surroundings.
Despite its relatively small population, Taos boasts a diverse cultural heritage and a rich history that attracts visitors and new residents alike. Whether it’s exploring the ancient Taos Pueblo, skiing in the nearby mountains like Kachina Peak, or enjoying the local cuisine, Taos offers an unparalleled mountain town experience.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in New Mexico. Towns must have average rental data to be included on the list. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Source: rent.com