Albuquerque’s Southwest living offers young professionals beautiful weather, natural landscapes, and diverse communities—in addition to offering affordable living, job opportunities in the technology and defense industries, and a unique culture that goes beyond being “that one city” in Breaking Bad. Here are the five best neighborhoods in Albuquerque for singles and young professionals!
Bear Canyon
Photo via @mediakingsmen
- Home Price: $243,750 median purchase price; $1,098 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 73% of Albuquerque neighborhoods
Located in northeast Albuquerque, Bear Canyon is a small, quiet community perfect for young professionals who are looking to get away from the commotion of downtown living. Homes in this ABQ neighborhood range from Pueblo-style adobe homes to Mid-Century Modern houses with several bedrooms. And for those looking to rent in Albuquerque, there are plenty of apartments to choose from for any budget. Bear Canyon is also close to shopping centers and outdoor recreation spots like Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and Bear Canyon Open Space Loop, so there are plenty of fun things to do for active young people.
Things to Do in Bear Canyon
Spend the day playing a round of golf at Arroyo del Oso Golf Course‘s 27-hole course. Explore the walking paths or get a group of friends together for a soccer game at Arroyo del Oso Park. Ride rollercoasters, play carnival games, and more at Cliff’s Amusement Park. Check out the boutiques and shopping centers within a few minutes of Bear Canyon, including North Towne Plaza and the Promenade Shopping Center. Sample homemade pasta dishes like Lobster Ravioli and Eggplant Parmigiano, served with an old-school neighborhood restaurant vibe at Trombino’s Bistro Italiano. Looking for Indian food in Albuquerque? Stop by Naan & Dosa for Indian favorites like freshly baked Naan, Tandoori Chicken, or Chennai Fish Curry. Go on a date night and enjoy Pizza Margherita or Pizza the Greek paired with a bottle of wine at Scarpas Brick Oven Pizza. Or visit Monroe’s New Mexican Food for dishes like Seafood Enchiladas, Beef Fajitas, or Chicken Tacos.
Downtown
Photo via @native_dwelling
- Home Price: $197,950 median purchase price; $717 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 33% of Albuquerque neighborhoods
Looking to live in the heart of the city? Singles and young professionals will love living in Downtown Albuquerque! The downtown area is home to an abundance of bars, restaurants, shops, and entertainment for everyone. Living in Downtown Albuquerque is more affordable than certain neighboring areas like Huning Castle, and singles and young professionals can find a variety of Spanish Revival houses to Craftsman bungalows. Looking for events and festivals in Albuquerque? Duke City residents in this neighborhood can find fun annual happenings like Downtown Summerfest—offering food, pop-up shops, and live music—or visit the Downtown Growers’ Market, open from mid-April through early November!
Things to Do in Downtown
See films, concerts, plays, and other performances at the historic KiMo Theatre, which has provided ABQ residents entertainment since 1927. During the summer, attend outdoor events like Movies on the Plaza on Fridays in the Civic Plaza. Visit nearby Old Town and enjoy a night of learning about ghost tales, haunted sites, and local spirits while on Albucreepy Ghost Walk. Sign up for art workshops at 516 ARTS, or spend the day appreciating exhibits from emerging local artists like Nathaniel Tetsuro Paolinelli and national artists like Minerva Cuevas. Start your morning with a Latte, Cold Brew, or Americano from Castle Coffee. Order the Turkey and Swiss Combo, Lunch Burrito, or bowl of Gazpacho for lunch from Roma Bakery and Deli—and don’t forget to grab a freshly-baked cookie! Choose from a variety of hot and cold sandwiches like the French Dip-a-Do, Little Sis’s Tuna, or Turkey Banh Mi at Al’s Big Dipper. Enjoy Spanish-style tapas favorites like Cordero, Pinchos, or Esparragos with a bottle of wine at Debajo Tapas y Vino. Or grab a drink on the rooftop bar and dance the night away with friends at Effex Night Club.
Huning Castle
Photo via @dpsdesign
- Home Price: $282,750 median purchase price; $852 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 61% of Albuquerque neighborhoods
Located along the Rio Grande River and just minutes southwest of Downtown ABQ, Huning Castle is a popular Albuquerque neighborhood for singles and young professionals looking for a hot social scene. This Southwestern neighborhood is a favorite of singles and young professionals, due to its proximity to the heart of the city—where some of the best restaurants, bars, and things to do are located. This area is also next to the Albuquerque Country Club, which offers activities like golf, tennis, and swimming. Plus, as a safe, affordable Albuquerque neighborhood, Huning Castle offers young adults settling down a variety of unique homes to buy or rent, with styles ranging from Mid-Century Modern to Southwest adobe-style homes.
Things to Do in Huning Castle
Catch local plays and musicals like Grease, or sign up for an adult acting class at the Albuquerque Little Theatre, a staple of the ABQ metro for over 90 years. Head a few minutes up Central Avenue to find shops, dining, and attractions like The Albuquerque Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science in the Old Town Plaza. Go for a run on the trails, grab your fishing gear, or picnic with friends at Tingley Beach. Explore all of the Albuquerque spots where Breaking Bad was filmed, which includes several spots in and around Huning Castle! Order Nachos Supreme, an Enchilada Plate, or Chicken Fajita Plate at the original location of Garcia’s Kitchen, established in 1975. Enjoy the Southwest Salad, a Patty Melt, or build your own Deli Sandwich and pair it with a Strawberry Italian Soda at Cheese & Coffee Cafe Downtown. Chow down on classic American favorites like the Foot Long Chili Dog, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, or Frito Pie at Dog House. Enjoy a Farm Meat and Cheese Board, Perfect Potato Chips, Hummus Platter, and a bottle of the House Red Wine while catching up with friends at The Feel Good.
Nob Hill
Photo via @jakesellsnm
- Home Price: $265,667 median purchase; $685 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 61% of Albuquerque neighborhoods
Once a major cultural hub along Route 66, Nob Hill is still known for its energy and eclectic vibe. A popular neighborhood in the Albuquerque metro, this area is full of locally-owned businesses and landmarks along Central Avenue. Nob Hill is also full of unique architecture, like the Spaceship UFO house—locally known as the “Bug House.” Those looking to buy a house with character in Albuquerque will find a large selection of stucco and adobe single-family homes, in styles ranging from Mid-Century Modern to Pueblo Revival. There are also plenty of modern apartments and condos for young professionals who are looking to rent. The neighborhood’s proximity to the University of New Mexico and UNM Health System makes it an excellent place for college students, university faculty, and healthcare professionals to live in Albuquerque.
Things to Do in Nob Hill
Shop for comic books and pop culture novelties at Astro-Zombies, while admiring the Ceiling of Fame, which features the signatures of comic book legends like Brian K. Vaughn, Doyle of The Misfits, Jeffrey Brown, J.H. Williams! Browse jazz and rock vinyls, cassettes, CDs, and more at Nob Hill Music. Find hand-crafted jewelry, sculptures, home decor, and more at Mariposa Gallery. Watch indie films—including the work of local filmmakers—at the retro-inspired Guild Cinema. Looking for breakfast in Albuquerque? Hit up Tia B’s La Waffleria for classic and unique takes on waffles, from Chicken & Waffles to Peach Cobbler Waffles. Stop by for breakfast or lunch of Huevos Rancheros, a Carne Adovada Burrito, or Veggie Mac at The Shop Breakfast & Lunch. Order Fresh Spring Rolls, Pad Thai, or Yellow Curry Fried Rice at Thai Cuisine II. Bring home sweet treats like Chocolate and Peanut Apple, Mint Truffles, or Cookies and Cream Fudge paired with a strong Cappuccino from the Chocolate Dude. Enjoy a night out on the town listening to live music while drinking a Stone Delicious IPA or Sam Smith Oatmeal Stout at O’Niell’s.
Uptown
Photo via @nmapartments
- Home Price: $142,311 median purchase price; $852 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 25% of Albuquerque neighborhoods
Located east of ABQ’s city center, young professionals and singles will enjoy living in the Uptown neighborhood! Known as the shopping and business center of Albuquerque, you can find plenty of things to keep you busy. Those looking to start their careers can find plenty of opportunities thanks to the area’s commercial areas like Two Park Square, as well as healthcare employment with Uptown Rehabilitation Center—or find opportunities through recruiters like Robert Half Talent Solutions. Looking for a home with great amenities? Duke City residents can find a variety of Southwest-inspired, single-family homes in Mid-Century Modern and Ranch styles, plus plenty of modern apartments. With a variety of locally-owned restaurants, parks, and festivals, it’s easy to see why so many people enjoy living in Uptown!
Things to Do in Uptown
Attend one of the many events at Expo New Mexico, from the New Mexico State Fair to New Mexico Home Improvement Marketplace. Spend the day shopping in Albuquerque at stores like Anthropologie, Free People, or Michael Kors at ABQ Uptown. Play with your furry friends at Tom Bolack Urban Forest Park. Dig into comfort food favorites like Chicken Fried Chicken, a BBQ Chicken Sandwich, and the Uncle Reuben at Christy Mae’s Restaurant. Try Japanese favorites like Spicy Steamed Gyoza, Chicken Hibachi, or a bowl of Vegetarian Tofu Soup at Takumi Restaurant. Make reservations for a Steak Citrus Salad, Smoked Salmon, or Waldorf Chicken Wrap at the Fork & Fig. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Chocolate Eclair or Strawberry Cheese Danish, or order a customizable cake from ABC Cake Shop & Bakery. Or enjoy drinks like Tennessee Whiskey Mules or Wild Raspberry Cosmos with friends while belting out your favorite karaoke jam at Sunset Grille & Bar on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
***
Are you moving to Albuquerque soon? Extra Space Storage has several storage facilities throughout the ABQ metro that can help with your transition. Find cheap storage in Albuquerque!
Neighborhood statistics from AreaVibes
