Albuquerque is a widespread city with a thriving downtown and affordable housing. The city is divided into four quadrants — the Northeast, Southeast, Northwest and Southwest. The lines of division are marked by Central Avenue and Broadway. Each quadrant has growing subdivisions.

Rio Rancho, Placitas and Corrales are smaller communities that lay north of Albuquerque. The East Mountain community is tucked behind the Sandia Mountains at an elevation of over 7,000 feet. City life, wide-open spaces, backyards, job opportunities and affordable abundant housing are a good risk for anyone. No wonder so many visitors come back to stay.

In Albuquerque, just pick the lifestyle you want and one of our diverse areas is sure to meet your needs. If you are city-savvy, like to walk to local cafés, bars, shops and restaurants, Downtown Albuquerque is your place. Brian Morris, president of the Downtown Action Team notes that Downtown revitalization has increased from 200 to 600 leasing units in the last four years alone.

Local residents are moving downtown for a variety of reasons. “You see younger residents and retirees,” says Morris, “Young people want that urban lifestyle, while on the other end, older residents are tired of taking care of a yard, they want to be close to the movie theatre and dining and don’t want the hassle of driving.”

Lofty Living Downtown

New loft spaces, especially those built for living and working, have created an urban downtown environment catering to a wide variety of people from college students to business people and others in between. According to Brian, “I think we’ll start to see more business people.” The convenience of a work/living space is the big draw. “Your office is your home — it is all there in one area,” says Morris.

Of course, not everyone is looking for a downtown living space. Families who want to be close to work and schools might look to the Northeast and the Southeast.

Northeast Quadrant

The Northeast is a broad section encompassing an area from the University of New Mexico all the way to the base of the Sandia Mountains (also known as the Foothills). The Northeast has much to offer, including spectacular mountain views, shopping and dining as well as proximity to schools, hospitals and outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking and golfing. Popular subdivisions are the newly constructed North Albuquerque Acres, Sandia Heights and High Desert among others.

Southeast Quadrant

For those looking to live close to work, the Southeast quadrant of the city is near some of Albuquerque’s largest employers, including Kirtland Air Force Base and Sandia National Laboratory. Subdivisions such as Four Hills and Ridgecrest are particularly suited to family needs. (more)