Santa Fe, NM
Why You’ll Love Living in Santa Fe, New Mexico
As the second-oldest city in the United States, it’s easy to see why Santa Fe, New Mexico, earned a spot on our list of Top 10 Cities for Historic Preservation. Just an hour’s drive from Albuquerque, the city has a thriving cultural scene and is home to the famous Fiestas de Santa Fe, which has taken place since 1712. In addition, Santa Fe’s gorgeous landscape makes the city a romantic destination.
Thinking of moving to Santa Fe, NM? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Santa Fe, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Santa Fe, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Santa Fe, NM, a Best Place to Live in 2024
With earthy adobe buildings, ristras (strings of chile peppers) hanging on porches and storefronts, plus unique traditions like tailgating at the Santa Fe Opera in cowboy boots and turquoise jewelry, this New Mexico city can’t be compared to any other place in the U.S. That’s precisely why it’s nicknamed “The City Different” and also one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Santa Fe, NM, locals and civic leaders know just how special their city is, and they’ve got a number of goals in place to preserve its natural resources, which is why the city scored high in the environment category. Community plans include carbon neutrality in 2040 and continuing to encourage public transportation, like the Santa Fe Trails bus system that transports 1 million riders a year.
Considered New Mexico’s artistic capital, Santa Fe is home to hundreds of art galleries, many on Canyon Road, and the city has A+ museums, which range from the original Meow Wolf, a mind-bending sci-fi spot, to painter Georgia O’Keefe’s museum. Check out the Native American Artisans Portal Program, where you can meet artists selling their handcrafted works like pottery, textiles and jewelry. Plus, tons of art markets and festivals like the International Folk Art Market bring makers from 50 different countries to Santa Fe.
Some other traditions that make Santa Fe special include the farolitos lining adobe buildings during the holiday season and a Margarita Trail with fantastic agave cocktails.
You won’t find much to do in Santa Fe after 9 p.m. or so, but that’s OK because there are good reasons to wake up early, including being first in line when the lifts open at Ski Santa Fe or getting out to hike and see petroglyphs at Bandelier National Monument.
Santa Fe, NM Quality of Life LivScore
Santa Fe, NM Top Categories
Environment
Transportation
Housing & Cost of Living
Santa Fe ranks highest for environment, transportation and housing.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Santa Fe, NM
Winters can get chilly (warm up at Kakawa Chocolate House) in Santa Fe, but the summer is sweet. The average highs and lows are 84°F and 53°F (summer) and 44°F and 19°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Santa Fe is surprisingly high at 26 inches. The snow season occurs from November to April.
The average annual rainfall in Santa Fe is only 14 inches.
Santa Fe averages 283 sunny days a year.
Schuss down the slopes at Ski Santa Fe. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains resort gets up to 300 inches of snow!
Things To Do in Santa Fe, NM
Peruse the Santa Fe Farmers Market, which is open every Saturday of the year and has additional mid-week markets during the spring, summer and fall.
Kid adventurers of all ages can climb at the Santa Fe Climbing Center. And, if your little monkeys want to swing from the ceiling, LiggettVille Adventure Center has a ropes course and sip rail.
Santa Fe means business when it comes to eating. The best way to order New Mexican fare is “Christmas-style,” which means smothered in red and green chile.
Find two of life’s finest luxuries in one store: Chocolate + Cashmere.
Izanami, a Japanese restaurant at 10,000 Waves, features an impressive sake collection, and you can order a tasting flight here.
Become a concert regular at Meow Wolf, which is like a creativity vortex. The neon sci-fi museum championed by George RR Martin (of “Game of Thrones” fame) has one of the coolest concert venues in the region.
La Mama is a natural wine bar, a restaurant and a market that sells tinned fish, olives and everything else you need to throw one heck of an at-home happy hour.
The Local and State Economy in Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe is a major economic center for the state of New Mexico due to its diverse economy, which is primarily made up of tourism and hospitality, government, and an emerging number of technology-based businesses. In addition, Santa Fe is considered the third-largest art market in the country.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Santa Fe is 8.19%.
Yes, New Mexico has a state income tax.
Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center is one of the best hospitals in the state and the largest hospital in Santa Fe. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgery, oncology and cardiology.
Several higher-education institutions are located in Santa Fe, including Santa Fe Community College and the Institute of American Indian Arts.
Santa Fe, New Mexico Businesses & Brands to Know
Weather in Santa Fe, NM
Average Temperatures
65 High / 36 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
14 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
26 Inches
Quick Facts about Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Median Home Value
- $366,060
- Median Property Tax
- $2,786
- Total Population
- 91,156
- Average Commute
- 17 min
- Median Household Income
- $72,449
- Median Rent per Month
- $975
Map of Santa Fe, NM
Experiences & Adventures in Santa Fe, NM
Go There: A Splendid Weekend Away in Santa Fe, NM
Pack your weekend full of culture in history during a trip to this New Mexico city.
8 Incredible Under-the-Radar Spas in the U.S.
From a beer bath in Denver to treetop soaking cabanas in the Smoky Mountains, these spas are standouts.
5 Ways to Explore the Outdoors in New Mexico
These outstanding experiences help the state solidify its title as the Land of Enchantment.
Food Scenes in Santa Fe, NM
Green Chile Spices Up Food Production in New Mexico
Popular pepper takes the limelight in a state that also produces tons of cheese, snack foods, tortillas and more.
Cheers to Craft Beer in New Mexico
Big and small cities alike are enjoying local craft breweries in the Land of Enchantment. In fact, there are 104 (and still growing!).
Taste the Many Flavors of New Mexico
Value-added agriculture has deep roots in the Land of Enchantment.
Make Your Move to Santa Fe, NM
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Santa Fe, NM: Where to Live Now
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Education, Careers and Opportunity in Santa Fe, NM
New Mexico Welcomes Women Who Lead
Nearly half of the top executive positions are held by women, the highest percentage of any state.
Native American Entrepreneurs in New Mexico Find Stellar Support
Goal: Create more economic opportunities for Native American communities.
Where Is Space Valley in the United States?
This state is a major player in the industry and is home to Spaceport America, the world’s first purpose-built commercial spaceport.
Santa Fe, NM: Love Where You Live
The Most Romantic City In Every State
This Valentine's Day hit the open road with your honey and explore the most romantic cities around the country.
7 Things to Do Your First Year in New Mexico
Just moved to the Land of Enchantment? Here are seven adventures that can't be missed.
New Mexico is the Land of Enchantment and Opportunity
New Mexico programs help promote Native American entrepreneurship in the area.
