Are you dreaming of living in Santa Fe? If so, you’re not alone. New Mexico’s enchanting high mountain landscape is showstopping. Cradled within the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez Mountains is a city brimming with residents from around the world. Historically settled by Native American, Spanish, and Anglo influences, this unique city overflows with culture and artisan talent. At every level, Santa Fe’s deep-rooted and creative community is dedicated to preserving the soul of the Southwest.
Discover the magic of Santa Fe’s consistently mild climate. With 300 days of sunshine per year, one step out the door, and outdoor adventure begins. From rugged mountain trails to hot springs and spa retreats, the natural beauty of this charming city creates a world of wonder ripe for exploration and healthy outdoor recreation. Get ready to be swept away by the laid-back and welcoming community that fuels the rich tapestry of “The City Different.”
Living in Santa Fe is Beautiful
Notably, this area is also known as the “Land of Enchantment.” the breathtaking mountain ranges encompassing Santa Fe captures the heart, and the heritage of this unique oasis is palpable. Ignited by irresistible southwestern sunrises and sunsets, nature lovers and photography enthusiasts line the scenic byways to bask in the natural beauty.
As far as the eye can see, Santa Fe offers panoramic views of the high desert terrain, and each neighborhood within this charming city offers a unique style. In a town that keeps history alive, Spanish-Anglo-inspired architecture is at the forefront of most neighborhoods, truly making this a stand-out locale.
1. Living in Santa Fe is Enriching
Originally settled over 400 years ago, in 1610, Santa Fe New Mexico, is the oldest state capital in the United States. At the heart of the city is The Plaza, which encapsulates the essence of the City of Santa Fe. This natural landmark showcases the rich history, talent, and deep roots of the Santa Fe community.
Creativity takes the lead in the Plaza as collective local artisans, performers, and historians share the historic heartbeat of the southwest. This art market is filled with handcrafted wonders and Western relics. Visitors and locals converge to celebrate the cultural rhythm of this small town. Additionally, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum not only offers an up close and personal view into the life and mind of this legendary artist, but the museum offers community-wide classes for all ages. Step into an extraordinary world as the world-famous Santa Fe Opera stars transport audiences and paint a million stories through music. This stunning venue with panoramic mountain views and a unique open-air venue is perfect for kicking back and connecting with the community.
Festivals and community events, such as the Santa Fe Bandstand, Native American Markets, Spanish Markets, and the annual Christmas tree lighting event, draw this tight-knit community even closer. Despite their modest party scene, there are plenty of local spots to grab a margarita with a friend, a great cup of coffee, or a bite on the go. One lively option is the Railyard District, which offers visitors a vibrant nightlife with live music venues, breweries, and craft cocktail bars.
2. Living in Santa Fe is Healthy
Although Denver is well recognized as the “Mile High City,” with an elevation of 7,199 feet, Santa Fe holds the record for the highest elevation of all State Capitals in America. Surprisingly, Denver’s elevation is 5,280 feet, 1919 feet below Santa Fe. Accordingly, Santa Fe offers world-class green space for outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and the best skiing in Northern New Mexico.
Want mountains? Santa Fe has them. The Santa Fe National Forest, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Sun & Moon Mountains, and the Jemez provide lush landscapes. Roughly an hour out of town Tent Rocks is the religious site of the Cochiti Pueblo and offers unique slot canyon hiking filled with hoodoos and unique rock strata.
Walking, biking, and jogging, the Santa Fe River Park and Trail is a 10-mile path adjacent to the Santa Fe River from Patrick Smith Park Downtown to the Camino Royal Park. Speaking of rivers, kayaking and white water rafting the Rio Grande or the Santa Fe to the New Mexican is a bucket list item.
If year-round sunshine and lush green fairways beckon the Marty Sanchez Golf Course, the Santa Fe Country Club, and the Boulder at Towa Golf Resort on the Pojoaque Pueblo, heed the call. Prepare for extra distance from the tee box at this high altitude, as the thin air allows for extended drives.
3. Living in Santa Fe is Warm
At every turn, America offers a metropolis with an ideal location for every homebuyer. Let’s see why people from all walks compete for Santa Fe real estate. This high-desert oasis offers mild temperatures with low humidity and four distinct seasonal changes without the oppressive harsh peaks of summer heat (like Phoenix) or the plummeting lows (like Denver).
With average highs reaching 86’ and lows near 20’, lousy weather doesn’t exist in Santa Fe. Imagine a new home in a fresh new city and sunny year-round Santa Fe weather. The dependably consistent crisp blue skies of this micro cosmopolitan city seduce even the most indoorsy people to step outside for an adventure.
This haven for outdoor lovers teems with opportunities to step into the sunlight. From fossil hunting adventures to morning walks to Farmer’s Markets to grab fresh, locally sourced goods to cold fall nights perfect for wrapping up in a blanket to catch a breathtaking sunset, Santa Fe’s enchanting climate provides.
4. Living in Santa Fe is Relaxing
Stepping free from urban demands and engaging with nature, this creative community offers a slow-paced quality of life. This deep-rooted city holds the keys of history, spanning beyond 400 years.
Culture is everything in the Southwest, and the museums and charming spaces in town set Hispanic, Native American, and Western heritage at the forefront. Check out the art galleries along Canyon Road and the Plaza. Chocked with historical remnants, adobe-lined streets and its scenic river invite exploration. Journey further and take a scenic ride on the New Mexico Rail Runner Express to neighboring towns like Albuquerque for a day of chill exploration without the stress of driving.
5. Pros and Cons of Living in Santa Fe
Relocating to a new city is adventurous, and choosing the ideal location is crucial. Accordingly, as the fourth largest city in New Mexico, comparing Santa Fe to other similar American cities is essential. The cost of living in Santa Fe is 12% higher than the national average of most American cities, which isn’t unreasonable for a city with perfect weather and gorgeous scenery.
Regarding housing costs, this southwest gem packs a punch. With high demand and low inventory, home prices naturally rise, and Santa Fe is a New Mexican oasis. Accordingly, real estate in this capital city is highly sought after. Retirees seeking tranquility and new work-from-home opportunities keep the local real estate market hopping.
Santa Fe’s retirement-friendly community is young at heart and wise in years. The workforce includes retail, hospitality, healthcare, local government, the arts, Education (Elementary through High School), Santa Fe Community College, and artistic industries, including filmography. Meow Wolf and Los Alamos National Lab significantly contribute to the area’s local economy.
Santa Fe Neighborhoods
As a general overview, lot sizes and square footage near the town center are typically smaller in Santa Fe. As the map extends outward, the lot sizes and properties often offer more spacious living and expand into ranch properties and gigantic multimillion-dollar estates.
Historic District (East)– Historians and art enthusiasts line up! The art scene dazzles within this pueblo-style neighborhood. Filled with lush gardens and historic adobe homes and within walking distance of Canyon Road and Santa Fe Plaza, the location is the envy of the town.
North Santa Fe– Offering panoramic views, privacy, and sophistication with the convenience of proximity to the town center, the northern side of Santa Fe, and is both scenic and tranquil. These neighborhoods rest on rolling hills near the ski basin and are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, for entertainment, the Opera and Tesuque Market offer entertainment and retail opportunities.
South Capitol—This highly desired neighborhood offers architectural variety alongside walkable entertainment venues, dining, and optimal schools.
Southern Santa Fe—This residential mecca offers a bit of everything. From homebuyers seeking large homes and spacious property (check out Sol Y Lomas) to older homes in pocket neighborhoods, the neighborhoods of South Santa Fe offer variety.
Private and Gated- Las Campanas and La Tierra Nueva offer new and old properties with golf courses, equestrian facilities, and scenic solitude.
Ready to Move to Santa Fe?
Imagine experiencing life living in Santa Fe New Mexico, where creativity and dreamy weather provide endless recreation opportunities. “The City Different” is chocked full of kindhearted and welcoming residents from around the globe and that is a rearety in the modern landscape. If the deep-rooted heritage of the southwest resonates and you’re ready for sunset yoga classes, watercolor painting, and a low-stress lifestyle, moving to Santa Fe is just what the doctor ordered.
Why not get the ball rolling and buy into the American dream by connecting with a lender who can finance your next real estate adventure? Now is the best time to improve your quality of life and finance a new home in New Mexico. Taking the plunge and purchasing a new property in Santa Fe is only a click or a phone call away.
The Steps are Simple:
Schedule a Call: An experienced loan officer can discuss your needs and guide you through the possibilities.
Get Approved: We’ll help you through the application process and facilitate the steps for approval.
Exhale: Put your feet up and feel secure knowing you made the best decisions about your home loan.
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