Where art, culture, and nature meet comfort
Why it matters: Santa Fe is more than adobe homes and world-class art. Its surrounding suburbs offer affordable housing, top schools, outdoor adventure, and strong job markets in science, healthcare, and the arts in the Land of Enchantment. This area provides:
Native American culture
Outdoor recreation – skiing, river rafting, Santa Fe Margarita Trail
Delectable cuisine
What’s ahead: A look at five Santa Fe suburbs offering a range of lifestyles – from family-friendly to artistic retreats.
1. Los Alamos
Safe, smart, and built for innovators
Population: 13,471 | Median Home: $458K | School Rating: A+ | Commute: 30 min
Housing: Single-family homes, modern townhomes, hillside properties
Education: Los Alamos Public Schools (top-rated); nearby University of New Mexico-Los Alamos
Safety: One of the safest cities in New Mexico (Property: 334 | Violent: 37 annually)
Perks: Los Alamos National Laboratory, hiking in Pajarito Mountain, Bradbury Science Museum, cultural events, strong STEM job market
Why it’s #1: High-paying jobs, unbeatable safety, and stellar schools – all in an outdoorsy mountain setting
2. White Rock
Outdoor haven with small-town ease
Population: 5,568 | Median Home: $460K | School Rating: A+ | Commute: 16 min
Housing: Spacious single-family homes, cul-de-sacs, mountain views
Education: OutstandingLos Alamos Public Schools
Safety: Very low crime (Property: 155 | Violent: 16 annually)
Perks: Bandelier National Monument, White Rock Overlook, quick commute to Los Alamos jobs, hiking and climbing hotspots
Why it’s appealing: Quiet, safe, and steps from jaw-dropping nature with top schools for families
3. El Dorado at Santa Fe
Artful living with open space and community vibes
Population: 5,746 | Median Home: $543K | School Rating: A- | Commute: 28 min
Housing: Pueblo-style homes, large lots, eco-conscious builds
Education: Santa Fe Public Schools (nearby); Santa Fe Community College
Safety: Low crime (Property: 285 | Violent: 19 annually)
Perks: El Dorado Studio Tour, local markets, community center, hiking, dark-sky stargazing, 15 mins to Santa Fe’s Plaza
Why it’s special: Peaceful, artistic, and community-focused living with easy city access
4. Pojoaque
Affordable, diverse, and culturally rich
Population: 2,274 | Median Home: $154K | School Rating: C+ | Commute: 23 min
Housing: Affordable ranch-style homes, mobile homes
Education: Pojoaque Valley Schools; proximity to Northern New Mexico College
Safety: Generally safe with lower crime rates than Santa Fe (Property: 198 | Violent: 22 annually)
Perks: Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino, Native art galleries, golf courses, pueblo cultural centers, local festivals
Why it shines: A budget-friendly choice rich in culture and community, minutes from Santa Fe
5. La Mesilla
Scenic solitude with mountain charm
Population: 2,531 | Median Home: $267K | School Rating: C- | Commute: 31 min
Housing: Rural properties, horse-friendly lots, cozy single-family homes
Education: Española Public Schools; Northern New Mexico College nearby
Safety: Quiet and safe (Property: 172 | Violent: 18 annually)
Perks: Hiking the Sangre de Cristo foothills, horseback riding, art galleries, local markets, stunning sunsets
Why it’s great: A serene, nature-forward lifestyle with rich cultural roots and scenic beauty
Bottom line:
Santa Fe’s suburbs offer something for everyone – whether you want top-tier schools and safety in Los Alamos or an affordable, artsy escape in Pojoaque. Expect mountain views, outdoor adventures, and a rich cultural fabric wherever you land.
New Mexico Resources:
Moving to Santa Fe, NM? Read Our Relocation Guide
How to Build a House in New Mexico
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in New Mexico
Your Guide to Closing Costs in New Mexico
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.