Why Belen Is a Small Town on the Right Track
Sponsored by: City of Belen
The city of Belen is more than a historic railroad town – it’s a city on the rise. With affordable housing, growing job opportunities and unmatched accessibility by road, rail and air, Belen is becoming one of New Mexico’s most welcoming places to live, work and invest. Just ask Belen Mayor Robert Noblin.
Historic Charm
“Living and working in Belen offers the best of both worlds – small-town charm with big-city connectivity,” Noblin says. “The city’s affordability, rich cultural history and active community contribute to its high quality of life. Festivals, parades and historical traditions create a strong sense of belonging, while thoughtful city planning ensures the community continues to grow in a smart, sustainable way.”
Founded in 1740, Belen – Spanish for “Bethlehem” – is home to many historic buildings that add to its charm, including the Belen Hotel, Old City Hall and the Oñate Theater. City leaders have managed to preserve Belen’s 20th-century heritage while also focusing on infrastructure improvements, economic diversification and community engagement as part of Belen’s long-term vision.
“Belen has experienced steady growth in recent years, reflected in population increases, new housing developments and business expansion,” Noblin says.
Benefits for Businesses
The city’s population has grown from 7,360 in 2020 to 7,474 in 2023, with projections nearing 7,800 in 2025 and an anticipated increase to 9,500 within five years. Residential development has kept pace, with 165 new homes built and quickly sold, and dozens more underway.
“This housing growth supports local families and boosts the economy,” Noblin says. “The city has also welcomed several new businesses, including Arcosa Inc.’s wind-tower manufacturing facility that brought more than 250 jobs, and Starbucks. These developments not only enhance local employment opportunities, but also attract visitors and expand Belen’s tax base, allowing reinvestment into public services, parks and infrastructure.”
Businesses benefit from Belen’s strategic location near Albuquerque, situated along Interstate 25 and accessible by three exits. Belen is also home to the largest BNSF Railway yard in the Southwest, has access to the New Mexico Rail Runner commuter train and offers services at Valencia County’s only municipal airport.
“These transportation advantages make Belen ideal for logistics, manufacturing and retail industries,” Noblin says.
Family-friendly Events
Families are drawn to Belen’s high quality of life, thanks to its close-knit community, quality public schools, robust library, parks, large indoor swimming pool and cultural amenities, such as the historic Belen Harvey House Museum. Highly anticipated annual community events such as Rio Abajo Becker Street Festival in September and the St. Patrick’s Day Balloon Rallye in March make Belen an interesting and engaging place to raise children. Other fun and family-friendly annual events include the Fourth of July All American Celebration at Eagle Park, the Miracle on Main Street Christmas Craft Fair in December and the World’s Largest Matanza, a Spanish-style pig roast in January.
“Whether you are raising a family, starting a business or simply looking for a community that blends tradition with forward momentum, Belen is ready to welcome you,” Noblin says.
With its strategic location, robust infrastructure and vibrant community, Belen stands out as an ideal place for businesses and families alike. Learn more about moving to Belen at belen-nm.gov.