Did you know that Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico?
It’s located in the desert and has a population of 955,000.
It is also the highest metropolitan city in the entire country, with an elevation of 5314 feet above sea level.
But that’s not all.
If you’re contemplating moving to or visiting Albuquerque, you must know the crime rates and the safest neighborhoods to live in and visit.
Albuquerque has a property crime rate of 5,012 per 100,000 residents and a violent crime rate of 1,344 per 100,000 residents.
This guide will list the top 10 safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque to help you avoid dangerous areas of Albuquerque.
Contents
10 Safest Neighborhoods in Albuquerque
1. Valley Gardens
Valley Gardens is a safe, if not the safest, neighborhood in Albuquerque.
The crime rate in Valley Gardens is 95% below the average in Albuquerque.
The crime rate is 275 per 100,000 residents.
There are nearly 1,002 people who live in Albuquerque.
The town is also home to some amazing schools, including Pajario Elementary School.
Many of the residents living here have younger and older children, as it is located close to CNM South Valley Campus.
The neighborhood also offers plenty of amenities, including Valley Gardens Park, an AMC theater, and much more.
2. Ventana Ranch
Ventana Ranch is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque.
The population here is 9,551, and the crime rate is 2,060 per 100,000 residents.
Overall, Ventana Ranch’s crime rate is 64% below the city’s average.
Ventana Ranch made the list for several reasons.
There are nearly 4,700 homes on the market in the neighborhood that cost an average of $349,000.
Residents living here also have access to a community center that is reserved just for community members.
It’s free and features a swimming pool to enjoy.
There are also a total of nine parks located in the neighborhood.
3. Desert Spring Flower
Also making the list of the top safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque is Desert Spring Flower.
The population of Desert Spring Flower is 2,318 and the crime rate is 549 per 100,000 residents.
In total, the crime rate is 90% below the city’s average.
The majority of the neighborhood is residential, which means that your children can safely play without worrying about traffic.
Desert Spring Flower is among one of the most inexpensive neighborhoods in the city as well.
Residents who have children can take advantage of multiple parks located throughout the neighborhood, such as Tom Tenorio Park.
4. North Albuquerque Acres
Coming in at number four on the list of safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque is North Albuquerque Acres.
The population here is 1,051, and the crime rate is 729 per 100,000 residents.
The total crime rate is 87% below the city’s average.
The average cost of a home in this area is $881,000.
While it’s expensive to live here, safety truly comes at a price.
The Albuquerque New Mexico Temple is located in the neighborhood and brings in millions of people each year.
Many of the residents living here can also enjoy amazing views of the Sandia Mountains and easy access to the Sandia Peak Tramway.
5. Seven Bar North
Seven Bar North is another safe neighborhood in Albuquerque.
The population of Seven Bar North is 1,224.
The crime rate is 1,707 per 100,000 people, which makes it 70% below the city’s average.
One of the biggest shopping centers in the state, Cottonwood Mall, is located right here in Seven Bar North.
Residents here can also enjoy Salida del Sol Park, which is also within walking distance.
Also located in the neighborhood are Black Arroyo Park and Lovelace Westside Hospital.
6. Volcano Cliffs
Volcano Cliffs have a crime rate of 1,011 per 100,000 residents, making it another one of the safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque.
The overall crime rate is 82% below the city’s average.
There are a total of 3,017 people living in Volcano Cliffs.
If you are an avid nature lover, you will enjoy living or visiting Volcano Cliffs.
You can see stunning views of the Vulcan Volcano, Black Volcano, and JA Volcano.
There are also many attractions in the neighborhood, including Paseo de la Mesa Trailhead, Boca Negra Canyon, and George J Maloof Memorial Air Park.
7. Vecinos Del Bosque
Coming in at number seven on the list of the safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque is Vecinos Del Bosque.
It’s a safe, walkable neighborhood with riverfront views.
The population of Vecinos Del Bosque is only 620.
The crime rate is 1,453 per 100,000 residents, which is 75% below the city’s average.
If you are looking for easy access to downtown Albuquerque, you will enjoy living in this neighborhood.
Residents living in Vecinos Del Bosque can take advantage of various playgrounds, easy river access, and a zip line.
8. Paradise Hills Civic
Paradise Hills Civic is also a safe neighborhood in Albuquerque.
The population is 32,807.
The crime rate is 1,459 per 100,000 people.
In total, the crime rate in Paradise Hills Civic is 75% below the city’s average.
It’s a relatively large neighborhood and is located east of Ventana Ranch.
You’ll find plenty of large houses in Paradise Hills Civic, including a golf course.
You’ll also be able to catch some amazing views while visiting Piedras Marcadas Canyon.
Many families live in the neighborhood and also benefit from top-notch schools in the area, including Sierra Vista Elementary and James Monroe Middle School.
9. Tijeras Arroyo
Tijeras Arroyo made the list of the safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque for very good reasons.
There are about 4,026 people who live in Tijeras Arroyo.
The crime rate in the neighborhood is 1914 per 100,000 people.
The area is known as the southern gateway because it gives people living and visiting the area easy access to various mountains, in addition to the Turquoise Trail.
Overall, Tijeras Arroyo is a quiet neighborhood.
The average cost of a home is $157,700, making it an extremely affordable location.
10. Alban Hills
Last on the list of the top 10 safest neighborhoods in Albuquerque is Alban Hills.
The population of Alban Hills is 4,733.
The crime rate is 2198 per 100,000 people.
Not only is it a safe neighborhood, but it ranks better than 90% of other neighborhoods in the state in terms of wealth.
Many of the residents who live here are wealthy, educated executives, and professionals.
Overall, it’s a unique neighborhood. For families with kids, Alban Hills offers various playgrounds, parks, and daycare.
There are also many restaurants, stores, coffee shops, and schools in the neighborhood.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Albuquerque
Here are five safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Albuquerque:
- Park in well-lit areas. If you are going to be renting a vehicle while you are in Albuquerque, it’s important that you only park in well-lit areas. Also, try to park in areas that have a lot of activity. In addition, try to park as close to the entrance as possible.
- Report suspicious behavior. If, at any time, you observe any suspicious behavior or behavior that seems out of the ordinary, make sure that you notify law enforcement or hotel staff.
- Avoid carrying purses. If possible, avoid carrying purses and instead use a pocket to carry credit cards and money. Moreover, you should probably consider only carrying no more than one or two credit or debit cards. If you need to carry a purse around with you, keep it close to your body and never wrap it around your neck or body.
- Keep hotel room keys secure. Never display your hotel keys. Moreover, you should never leave your keys in places where they can easily be stolen.
- Be aware of your surroundings. No matter where you travel, including Albuquerque, you should always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid using your cell phone while walking, and avoid other things that can create a distraction while in unfamiliar areas.
Albuquerque Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Albuquerque Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Albuquerque?
Here is a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Albuquerque.
You should steer clear of these neighborhoods while visiting the city:
- La Mesa
- Quigley Park
- Crestview Bluff
- Montgomery Heights
- Jackson Area
- Elder Homestead
- Loma Del Rey
- Grande HTS
Is Albuquerque safe to walk around?
Generally, walking around downtown Albuquerque during the day is safe.
Yet, you must avoid walking around at night, as crime rates tend to increase.
This is especially true in certain areas.
Most crime occurs between Wyoming and San Pedro.
If you do walk around at night, you should avoid walking alone and steer clear of streets that aren’t well-lit.
Is public transportation safe in Albuquerque?
Many people tend to believe that the ABQ Ride is not safe.
Yet, this statement is false.
The best way to get around the city of Albuquerque is by taking public transportation, particularly the bus.
The bus routes operate throughout Albuquerque and are a great way to travel from one neighborhood to another.
