Apartments for Rent in New Mexico

New Mexico

New Mexico is one of the most culturally unique state in the U.S., with a high percentage of the population of either Mexican/Spanish or Native American descent. In fact, one in every three families living in homes or apartments in New Mexico speaks Spanish at home. The predominant Indian groups are the Pueblo, Navajo and Ute, all part of the Nation.

The economy of New Mexico is represented agriculturally by cattle, dairy, hay and chili peppers. The largest single employer in the state, however, is the federal government (New Mexico gets more funding per capita than any other state, due partly to the vast miles of forest preserves and the Indian Reservation programs). Mining is also a major source of revenue, with turquoise, silver and uranium mines topping the list.

Outdoor Attractions

The state of New Mexico is actually about one-quarter forest land, including the Gila National Forest. Also prominent are the Rio Grande River and its many canyons. These areas draw millions of visitors for hiking, rafting and camping every year. Many also explore the vast system of underground caverns that spider web the state – Carlsbad Caverns is one of the most famous spelunking locations in the world with underground chambers the size of skyscrapers.

Golf is also a popular activity, especially with retirees who come to New Mexico for the hot, dry summers and mild winters. There are quite a few lakes here and most are manmade, so New Mexico apartments have sprung up near many of them due to their prime locations.

Colleges and Universities

Higher education in New Mexico is provided by several state-funded schools, including the University of New Mexico, Eastern New Mexico University and New Mexico State. Also popular is the unique New Mexico Tech Institute of Mining Technology. The federal government and military also have major research laboratories in the state, including Los Alamos National Labs. There are more PhD's per capita in New Mexico than any other state. The military often puts up distinguished researchers in New Mexico apartments for years at a time during crucial research initiatives.

Real Estate and Housing

The cost of living is on par with the nation for the most part, although you'll find differences in rent of up to $300 a month depending on whether you're looking in a University town or a major city such as Albuquerque, Las Cruces or Santa Fe. Most apartments in New Mexico are newer construction – a result of the housing boom that began in the 1970's – but you can still find charming Spanish renovations that have been lovingly converted to apartments in New Mexico.