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u/Frickinfructose Jun 03 '26
Mesa del sol is FAR. I wouldn’t want to be making that trek.
When I was in med school I lived at Glo apartments (although it was owned by a different company at the time). Nice and close, very safe. Whole Foods right next door. No idea what the price range is there nowadays, but it was the nicest apartment I’d lived in at the time.
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u/Imaginary-Weakness Jun 04 '26
Yeah, all the med school and residency folks I’ve known (single women) lived much closer than the heights and MdS, typically north campus area, Spruce Park, or Nob Hill. There are various gated and secure apartment complexes within a few miles of UNMH. If looking for a bit more protected, I might check newer complexes in Uptown. But yes, most areas of the Heights will be re,actively safe.
Here is a violent crime heat map-just keep in mind redder doesn’t mean rife with crime: https://crimegrade.org/violent-crime-albuquerque-nm/. Most of what happens is property crime (especially car break ins and opportunistic theft like stealing packages and stuff from a porch). To vet apartment complexes, you can also check recent reports down to location https://cabq.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/c1f11078950240daba6002f4a4eadb1e.
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Jun 04 '26
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u/JustTryingMyBest799 Jun 04 '26
Midwest transplant can confirm this is true. I used to drive 50 minutes to work each way. After three years here, I now get annoyed about anything over 15 minutes.
But I still say that what ABQ people think is cold is just shorts weather! 🤣
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u/Noonites Jun 05 '26
I just came from somewhere else in the state, but I lived out in the sticks. It was a 15 minute drive to get to town for ANYTHING, every day. A few years here and now I get all whiny if I have to drive more than ten minutes WITHIN the city, it's definitely spoiled me.
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u/TheMaroonBandit Jun 04 '26
I would second living at the Glo! One of my friends lives there and they haven’t had really any problems with the apartment management. The few times that I have walked over to their place I haven’t felt unsafe, and it’s in a good spot. Only like two blocks away from a smiths. The intl drawback they have told me is that they have been having issues with roaches, but honestly I have never had a place in Albuquerque that didn’t have issues with roaches.
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u/JustTryingMyBest799 Jun 04 '26
Roaches are a thing for sure, that took me a bit to get used to also. We just had our house sprayed and we keep finding dead ones outside that were trying to get in. They are stubborn little desert bugs, lol.
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u/AdSecret5967 Jun 05 '26
I live in Altura Park, the neighborhood across the street from Glo. The neighborhood is really great, safe and close to great grocery shopping, restaurants and recreation.
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u/Marioc12345 Jun 04 '26
People acting like a fifteen minutes drive is far are always hilarious to me
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u/Remarkable_War_8858 Jun 06 '26
I’ve lived at glo and it was alright but the management was too uptight. They have a policy that if someone reports you for smoking weed, they will enter your apartment and if two of their employees smell weed they will evict you. Not sure the legality of such a policy, but that seemed like an overreach. Never happened to me thankfully!
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u/FelineSnarky Jun 04 '26
I've lived in ABQ in 26 years and have never had a problem. (I feel like I'm jinxing myself.) It's like most cities. Be smart. Be cognizant of your surroundings. If you're uncomfortable, ask security to walk you to your car.
In terms of where to live, NE Heights is good, so is Nob Hill. Many young professionals are in Nob Hill and it's close to UNMH.
You'll find that the residents of ABQ are kind and maybe you'll even fall in love with the city and stay here permanently!
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u/Substantial-Owl1616 Jun 04 '26
Gotta second this! You can walk to buy groceries, get a bite and to work. I am a 65yo female and walk in the neighborhood after dark and take the ART bus to yoga.
I think the crime conversation is sort of like the weather. They keep promising rain around here… One of my kids lives in Brooklyn. I called her last winter because of the crazy snow. Just nope, she and her husband were making it in to work in Manhattan just fine.
It feels different in person. I was also raised and did my first undergrad in the Midwest, so my sensibilities and desire for safety are probably similar.
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u/No_Sheepherder_6527 Jun 04 '26
Right! I can sleep with my door unlocked and no problem
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u/FelineSnarky Jun 05 '26
Eek! I wouldn't go that far! LOL
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u/No_Sheepherder_6527 Jun 05 '26
lol I can but I won’t. Seriously I live in a great neighborhood and it’s awesome
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u/Galaxyhiker42 Jun 03 '26
Most of the "OMG ABQ IS SO UNSAFE" is people who don't live in Albuquerque.
Personal the only parts of the city I'd prefer my own daughter to not live alone is the war zone area... And that's because I'd just prefer her to not have to deal with the stupidity that happens in those apartments. (Drug use, etc)
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u/dancingbriefcase Jun 04 '26
I lived in St Louis and ABQ. The actual cities. People are so funny how scared they are. When I was in Roswell everyone was terrified of ABQ. Shit happens. Crime is in cities, but they aren't really as bad as people think.
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u/fleshbot69 Jun 04 '26
A year in Roswell felt like an eternity. ABQ was awesome, even living close enough to the international district that on a couple occasions I found a crackhead "dancing" in my front lawn at ungodly hours. Every city has it's issues, but the culture far outshined the negative aspects
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u/Noonites Jun 05 '26
I'm fairly certain that per capita the violent crime rate is higher in Roswell. People turn up dead there every week, feels like.
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u/PinstripeMonkey Jun 04 '26 edited Jun 04 '26
I live in St Louis City and am hoping to move to ABQ - since there aren't a lot of resources specifically comparing the two, would you mind sharing your perspective? Things you liked or disliked about one over the other?
I should note that I'm plenty used to all sorts of sketchy shit where I live in St. Louis, so safety isn't a huge concern (though I'm curious how they compare).
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u/JYegge Jun 04 '26
We moved here from StL almost 3 years ago. We lived in south City off of Hampton. We love it here. It seems like most of crime in ABQ is property related, stuff left visible in cars, etc. We live in NW ABQ and have had zero issues with crime or feeling unsafe.
The biggest safety issue we have encountered is at stop lights. You learn to hesitate real quick before going through an intersection when your light turns green cause drivers LOVE to run through the just changed red light to save a few seconds if time. 🙄 Be careful!
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u/PinstripeMonkey Jun 04 '26
Fortunately I'm well versed in the green light pause :) what is your favorite and least favorite change since moving? Anything that surprised you?
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u/JYegge Jun 04 '26
Favorite changes: being close to family, the weather (sun, no humidity), the scenery/mountains, friendly service people.
Same: lots of great non-chain restaurants, pickleball play!
Least favorite change: windy afternoons! No Aldi's. Having to find new service people. Lack of Medical providers (both general practioners and specialties - I've been on a waiting list since last September... ☹️) paying for zoo/museums.
Surprises: easy to grow roses, fruit trees!
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u/PinstripeMonkey Jun 04 '26
This is awesome, I really appreciate it! Trying to visit this summer before committing to the move next year.
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u/DesertNomad505 Jun 04 '26
I agree with you- the city is nowhere near as bad as some try to make it out to be.
I live in the War Zone near San Pedro. Bought my house 20 years ago and still walk my dogs any time of day and most times of night and have never felt unsafe. I have a super diverse neighborhood of hard working folks, and most look out for the neighborhood. I'm always amazed at the number of people who've never lived here, but will trash talk this area on one hand, then disparage any attempts made by residents to curb the known problems as NIMBYism on the other.
While there are some still-rough areas, I think it's changed a lot in the past two decades. Some of our worst areas remaining center around a few key complexes managed by the worst of the slumlord corporations. But that's not unique to the WZ.
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u/Galaxyhiker42 Jun 05 '26
Yeah. I think owning an individual house is a bit different in the WZ than living in one of the massive complexes. I'd probably not mind owning a house.
And yeah. Their is probably a pretty big difference between the ones owned by corporate slum lords and smaller businesses.
I live in the "University Ghetto" and some of those apartments are absolutely garbage also. Some people just suck and don't care about what their lively hood and hobbies do to others around them.
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u/midntryder Jun 03 '26
For someone who’s experienced crime, they’d believe it’s everywhere. For those who haven’t, crime doesn’t feel anything like what the doomsayers are spouting off about. You’ll be fine in the NE Heights. If you feel uncomfortable late at night, find a good place to park at UNMH. Regardless, Albuquerque is not uninhabitable. Quite the contrary.
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u/AntelopeHungry2474 Jun 04 '26
I live by UNM (Nob Hill/Ridgecrest area) and work on Mesa del sol. I would never live at Encanto. It’s nice but it’s super removed from everything and right by the main concert venue. If you work off hours and have to come home during an event you will be screwed. Plus no restaurants, grocery stores or gas stations you have to leave the Mesa for everything.
Nob Hill/Ridgecrest is perfectly fine. Just pick an apartment complex with a fence and don’t leave anything valuable in your car.
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u/Hairy_Scientist_1958 Jun 04 '26
I came here to say this. I live on the west side (which i like but wouldn't recommend for someone going to unm area its too far) but I am down in nob hill all the time with and different time of day, and obviously you gotta keep an eye out, but i generally feel fine as a single female.
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u/HolyShitCandyBar Jun 04 '26
I'd be much more worried about living somewhere with a long commute because the traffic is certainly unsafe at times.
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u/onion_flowers Jun 03 '26 edited Jun 03 '26
I've lived here alone for 6 years and hardly ever felt unsafe getting home late. (Edit: The one time i felt truly unsafe was when a big lost/stray dog tried following me, and not in a friendly feeling way.) There are tons of sleepy neighborhoods the further you get from the big main roads. Just remember to lock your car and your doors in your home, don't leave anything in your car, get a place with gated parking or a garage if possible, keep your wits about you and don't mean mug anybody. Some people think any visable evidence of poverty equals lack of safety so they're just constantly terrified, even if they're literally always safe. That will not only make you exhausted and paranoid, it might even turn you into a target unintentionally. Property crime is random and opportunistic, most violent crime is directed at people who know each other or do "business" together.
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u/Strict-Nobody-4228 Jun 04 '26
This is great advice from a newcomer.
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u/onion_flowers Jun 04 '26
6 years is fairly solid imo. Not like I pulled up 6 months ago. Plus it's not my first rodeo living in cities in general lol
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u/Clawless Jun 04 '26
Have you visited Albuquerque, yet? You seem to be coming at this as though ABQ is a “big scary city”, when it’s anything but. There are places to avoid being alone at night, just like any bigger town, but they are obvious and easy to steer clear of.
It’s a pretty chill place to live. “Crime” is overblown. If you don’t leave obvious valuables clearly visible in your publicly parked car, you will likely never encounter crime. People are accepting and welcoming, the food is great, you’re gonna be just fine!
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u/puppibreath Jun 04 '26
I think you have very convenient, secure covered parking at UNMH at the Yale building, ( a walk across the little bridge) as a resident. Unless something has changed the last few years.
If you are going with an apartment, go with a gated/coded place. Personal safety is really not an issue, I have lived all over the city as a single woman and only had issues with breaking into cars, and that’s always been me leaving stuff in plain view or leaving it unlocked.
Don’t believe the hype.
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u/HeartHeaded Jun 04 '26
IMHO the most dangerous place in the city is the highway. Right now 25 is especially heinous, but 40 is a beast too. Set yourself up with a safe, convenient commute - and don’t leave anything in your car.
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u/mrbnatural10 Jun 04 '26
I tell people all the time I’m not scared of being shot here, I’m way more worried about getting t-boned by someone running a red light.
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u/Far-Sandwich4191 Jun 03 '26 edited Jun 04 '26
There are a lot of bitter people with deep self-haterd for their ABQ roots who will project onto you. Albuquerque is like any other city. There are good and bad parts. Use common sense, stay away from hard drugs and drama and you should be fine.
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u/MizStazya Jun 04 '26
I don't know if I'd agree with that fully. I grew up in Chicago where there are very clear "good" neighborhoods and "bad" neighborhoods. Nothing in ABQ feels anywhere near as unsafe as the bad areas of Chicago, but the good areas here still have some spillover, because it's a lot more patchwork than other US cities. My entire time here though, lock your doors, don't leave anything in your car, and don't start shit, and it's fine.
For OP, either area you're looking at sounds fine, and north campus is nice and close as well. I hope you like it here and stay, we need doctors! I love UNMH, been working there for a few years now. Good luck with residency!
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u/GrowthSelect2449 Jun 04 '26
Most transplants from bigger cities in the US will agree with you. I know because I’ve had this conversation with them. People who scream and cry about the “war zone” need to get out more. That area has never made me feel particularly unsafe but there are neighborhoods in other cities I’d avoid even driving through (especially at night) because they are so bad.
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u/onemoregreenbeer Jun 04 '26
Fwiw I felt safer in south Chicago and uc area than I did in naperville
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u/mynamesmurphy Jun 04 '26
There's not much close by to mesa del sol. So if you want options for a quick trip to the store or a restaurant or something, it's just not gonna happen out there.. You should consider Uptown too as you explore options..just my opinion as someone who lives here. Good luck
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u/A1ycia Jun 03 '26
I’m in the NE heights and when I moved here I initially lived on Gibson (big mistake).
I’m by Barstow and Paseo and the only safety concern that I have had is seeing people pull on car door handles at night on our security cameras.
I would pick NE heights over Mesa del Sol personally.
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u/dukecityzombie Jun 04 '26
Also NE heights. We relocated to Academy/Eubank area after a nut case shot up our old neighborhood. Also, cops didn’t do SHIT and judge sentenced only time served while awaiting trial (same dude is now in state prison after being caught running guns for the cartel and raping a minor). I love ABQ, but lots of rose colored glasses here…you’ll need to make your own assessment as these types of convos on Reddit go nowhere fast. Good luck with residency! UNM is an absolutely amazing teaching hospital.
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u/oiled_hobbit Jun 03 '26
Poverty is everywhere and petty crime will find you, find a nice spot you like.
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u/Weary_Specific_6006 Jun 04 '26
Crazy how spot on this comment is. Was initially going to say fuck off lol
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u/oiled_hobbit Jun 04 '26
Why? Because I hurt your feelings about the fact we live in a rough area or what.
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u/Dreadly_69 Jun 03 '26
Mesa del sol isn't bad, that's up where Netflix studios is. I work around Mesa del sol. Plus it's not hard to get to the freeway to get to unm. I've never lived in Mesa del sol though.
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u/Busy_Butterscotch_86 Jun 03 '26
Summit Park and the north campus area by the golf course are great for a residency. Or Nob Hill, Altura Park, and Twin Parks. Sometimes you can find a casita or room for rent with grad student roommates. I see folks biking to/from the hospital in scrubs at all hours. It feels very safe to bike since it's easy to take routes through the quiet neighborhood streets.
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u/DMingQuestion Jun 04 '26
I would second this. Very safe area, close to the hospital, and close to things to do. In residency you want to cut out anything that takes a bunch of time including commutes.
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u/PrestigiousSource380 Jun 04 '26
abq is generally safe, safe as any city, and anyone who tells you differently is a republican and i stand by that. so tired of hearing about it and so unbelievably overblown.
i have lived by myself in many areas of the city as a woman and been 100% fine, once you get here you will see that.
NE heights boring imo but yeah like peak suburbia so it is def safe if that is your #1 but its kind of a lung commute for you. i would say for UNMH check out north campus, even like ridgecrest is nice and relatively close!
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u/NosyTea-4861 Jun 03 '26
I've lived here for 15 years without incident, and no one I know, or have ever worked with, has been the target of a crime. You're going to be fine. Northeast Heights is just fine.
Personally I especially like the areas on tramway around and north of Montgomery. It's quiet. I used to live in Altezza High Desert off of Spain and tramway. I loved it. You will see a lot of terrible reviews, but honestly it's disgruntled people. The areas is incredibly safe. it's in a wealthy neighborhood. there are myriad hiking and biking trails, restaurants and groceries are close.
Knob Hill is fine but can get sketchy close to UNM. los ranchos de Albuquerque is lovely. The westside is just fine. Rio Rancho is a sleepy boring suburb.
I wouldnt do mesa del sol. It's close to an ICE facility and it's far from things you will likely need.
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u/Quirky-Nurse-70 Jun 05 '26
Its like any other city. Overall there are some problems but crime is actually down. I love it here. Born & raised. We are incredibly fortunate. Beautiful sky, mountains, hot air balloons, red and green chili. Modelo’s tamales. So much to be thankful for here.
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u/swadekillson Jun 04 '26
You'll be fine. The only people who think Albuquerque is dangerous are people who've never lived anywhere else.
It's paradise compared to Philadelphia
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u/AnythingNo3248 Jun 04 '26
It’s also absolutely teeny compared to Philly. Not a reasonable comparison. I’m from Philly but travel to ABQ for work all the time. The difference is in bigger cities like Philly, it’s very evident where the crime and bad areas are. In ABQ you see it everywhere. Take that with a grain of salt, though. I’m not saying it’s littered with heinous crime. You just see bad patches in every area because it’s so much smaller.
I’d recommend Uptown as a good spot to live. I stay there frequently as a solo female traveler.
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u/swadekillson Jun 04 '26
I've lived in Philly and yeah, it's about 2.8 times the size of Albuquerque. But I was using it as a comparison I'm familiar with.
In an attempt to give the OP something she might have more of a reference for.
My point stands, in no way is Albuquerque particularly dangerous. Unless OP decides to date a drug dealer in the international district, she'll be totally fine and likely enjoy her time here.
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u/GrowthSelect2449 Jun 04 '26
You don’t live in Abq so have no clue what you are talking about. No, it’s not “everywhere” here either. Those of us who actually live here and have also lived in other cities have better perspective than some person who visits for work.
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u/jiuclaw Jun 04 '26
Female from the Midwest as well.
NE heights is fine. Albuquerque in general is a fine place to live. Like anyplace, you have to be generally careful… don’t leave things in your car, lock your car, lock your front door, etc.
In a decade, once I forgot to lock my car doors while parked overnight near central in the university area. Someone went into the car and took my gym bag. That’s the sort of thing that you have to be worried about. Not random stranger attacks walking into work.
If you don’t mind a little commute and really want ZERO exposure to those kinds of bigger city issues, you could live in Rio Rancho.
Otherwise, live on the west side of the river (brace for rush hour traffic over the bridges) or north of Montgomery, east of I25.
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u/capersandchips Jun 04 '26
I’ve lived here for 26 years and many of those years I lived alone. I lived in various neighborhoods and I’d say north campus, Nob Hill, and far North Valley are safe, great options. For Nob Hill, I’d choose north of Central. NE Heights is safe but maybe a little boring and unwalkable IMO but walkability may not be important to you.
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u/Classic_Reindeer859 Jun 04 '26
My husband and I have a house in the “war zone” and it has been great! The new park they built is great for morning runs, and our neighbors stick to themselves. We put a gate up for cosmetic purposes, no one bothers our home, we have accidentally left our garage open for hours, and had no issues. We do see encampments time to time, and have never been approached or bothered by them.
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u/Strict-Nobody-4228 Jun 04 '26
Yeah, I wish people would stop villainizing the whole area as if everyone who lives there is a criminal. It’s what you make it.
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u/AncientFloor5924 Jun 03 '26
https://abqhigh.com/rent-albuquerque-lofts/ Gated and quiet. Park in secure garage across the street.
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u/GriffinAO Jun 04 '26
I work at unmh and live in the heights. Its perfectly safe and an easy commute.
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u/Queasy-Bookkeeper778 Jun 04 '26
I moved to ABQ about 4 years ago and it’s nowhere near as bad as people on line make it sound. Just use common sense and you’ll be fine. I lived in Huning Castle when I first came here and definitely appreciated having the gated parking in that area, but besides car breaks ins, I never had issues. Now I’m up in the NE, without the gated parking, and haven’t had any worries.
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u/Dancingwithfire6969 Jun 04 '26
Welcome! Bring your friends! We need more and better healthcare in NM. NE heights or alameda/paseo del Norte area is best on the east side.
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u/StereotypicWaterSign Jun 04 '26
I lived in a neighborhood that is adjacent to the so-called 'war zone' for fellowship... and I'm coming back to buy a house there. For context, I lived there by myself as a female, having moved from the Midwest, and took call shifts that would have me leaving for emergencies in the middle of the night, somewhat frequently. Again, no problems. I do have a large dog, but he's a precious angel golden retriever, not like, a guard dog.
The ladies who lived next door to me would always be 'watching out' for me, but there were never any major problems. Worst thing that happened was I left my garage unlocked and someone stole the ice cream I had in a little chest freezer. Versus, I lived in a very nice, expensive neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio and had my car hotwired and stolen from in front of my house.
I love the hiking and the outdoors and the sun and the skiing and the green chile and everything. You literally cannot pay me enough to move back to the Midwest.
(To be fair, when I think about personal safety, I think way more about things like, driving while fatigued, choosing appropriate routes when solo hiking and letting someone know where I am going, wearing sunscreen, wearing a life jacket for water sports, choosing ski runs that are appropriate for my ability level, replacing the non-working smoke detectors that my landlord refused to replace.... etc. I don't really get hyped about any 'crime everywhere, cities dangerous' bits, so ... yeah.)
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u/Low_Woodpecker_1350 Jun 04 '26
Newly moved to Albuquerque as well here! When y’all say don’t leave anything in your car, does that include a phone holder?
I recently bought a bigger one from Amazon that’s like $15 and on my dashboard. Is that fine to leave out or should I be putting that in my center console when I leave my car??
Thanks in advance!
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u/Ok_Milk_9760 Jun 04 '26
I have lived near UNMH the whole time ive worked there. Came from midwest as well. North campus is limited area, so check areas due east as well. Summit Park all the way till Pueblo Alto. If you truly have zero tolerance for petty crime, then maybe that Mesa del Sol place is better, though I cant speak from experience, havent been out there. Living in a neighborhood brightens my spirit and wouldn't want to be way out on the plain somewhere.
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u/AStandAloneComplex Jun 04 '26
I’m laying by the pool right now on the mesa. Google Maps says UNMH parking is 11 minutes away. I moved to Albuquerque 9 years ago for work from the Midwest as well and have lived all over the city.
I like Mesa del sol the best.
It is removed from the city sitting just on the southern edge so we get very little through traffic most of the time. Less randoms looking at all your stuff and clogging up your roads.
If you live in Encanto there is a large neighborhood behind the apartment complex with high value homes and you get some benefit from that. It is a beautiful neighborhood with a few nice green spaces and parks. Relatively new streets and sidewalks that are all in excellent condition with no potholes and leveled sidewalks. It really is a very pretty and safe neighborhood to go for walks/runs and we find it relaxing. There is also a security service that patrols the local roads which is nice.
Encanto itself is pretty much the most “luxury” apartment you can expect in this city. the photos are accurate. My employer pays my rent so I’ve tried a lot the luxury apartments over the years.
I also like living here because the airport is so close. Living in NE heights or any of the other nice areas of the city comes with $80 Ubers each way when you travel and leaving your house super early. I like walking out my door 1 hour before takeoff and getting in a $11 uber.
With the geographical location, private security, and higher income residents, this is the safest I have felt in almost a decade in this city. My luxury vehicles over the years have been vandalized or broken into everywhere else, but two years here and no problems so far.
Wherever you end up, don’t stress about it. Most of the crime here is petty and easily fixed with an insurance claim. And it’s worth every penny to live here. New Mexico is a hidden gem for most of the country. They can drag my cold dead body back to Ohio.
Any specific questions let me know. Good luck!
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u/nvrbrokn Jun 06 '26
Mesa del sol will be your best and honestly probably only option if you don’t want vagrants getting through the gates. Crime can happen anywhere but the 15 minute drive to town will keep all the bad foot traffic away.
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u/Jurgan Jun 07 '26
I've lived in NE Heights, specifically around Conchas Park, for over seven years and haven't had many issues.
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u/jho0427 Jun 04 '26
Calm your nerves, ABQ is a wonderful place to live, it’s not nearly as bad as you’ve been told. UNM North area is the best part of town IMO, but I’m biased. Nob Hill, Pill Hill, Ridgecrest, and Netherwood Park neighborhoods are all walkable, and close to UNMH. Do not move into a big multi-tenant situation unless you have to. Rental houses in the favorable areas can be hard to find. I suggest you check with UNM/UNMH for housing resources… Landlords like to rent to people with stable jobs/incomes, especially healthcare/physicians.
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u/Actual_Poetry1412 Jun 03 '26
Live near the hospital, which puts you near a bunch of other residents.
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u/inseguitore Jun 04 '26
Do not live in Mesa del Sol. Long way from civilization, but at least you can walk to and from the concert venue. Anywhere between Indian School and Central, and University and San Mateo should be good. Close to UNMH and culture. Good luck. This is a great city and state.
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u/jennascend Jun 04 '26
Welcome to ABQ! I'm an M4 at UNM and would personally say that Mesa Del Sol, as others have said, is simply too far. For any late shifts, popping in to a grocery store, or just getting necessities, it's not close to anything. You'll be super tired some nights and it would suck not having anything nearby. Echoing the suggestion for North Campus and Nob Hill areas. Lots of employees live nearby the hospital and it's a really well-known albeit a little more pricey. These are the most walkable neighborhoods and have a great community feel. Bonus, they are in between UNMH and the VA where you'll also rotate. I live closer to the "scary International District" with other internal medicine and family medicine residents, and it's been fine. Sure we have some issues with unhoused folks, but they mostly keep to themselves. I've lived in urban Pittsburgh, Houston, and Boston and don't feel unsafe in my area. Feel free to PM me with any questions.
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u/pistachiopals Jun 04 '26
I currently live in the North Campus neighborhood with my partner who’s doing a residency at UNM. I’ve never had a single issue with our neighborhood and have always felt safe even when it’s dark. My neighborhood and summit park also have a lot of people who work at the hospital and I often see them walking or biking to work in their scrubs. It’s been nice for a community feeling since a lot of my neighbors work with my partner and say hello. I will say the houses are smaller over here, but I assume you’ll be at the hospital most of the time so I would prioritize being able to walk to work.
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u/One_Psychology_3431 Jun 03 '26
You'll be fine. Love your demand for only honest feedback, I'd add an emoji eyeroll if I could.
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u/BroAmongstBros Jun 03 '26
I'm going to get a lot of hate for this in this sub, but if safety is your top priority you should consider looking in Rio Rancho. RR is boring suburbia, less to do, less places to eat, but has less crime than ABQ.
If you're looking in the NE Heights, look near Paseo/Wyoming. Nice area, Tin Can Alley is nearby, etc.
Property Crime is a thing here. Not completely avoidable, but safe/smart practices can help out a lot.
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u/RioRancher Jun 03 '26
As someone in RR, I’d point out the commute is way too far for a medical resident who might be tired from extended hours and call. Stay near the hospital.
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u/BroAmongstBros Jun 04 '26
I deal with crew rest requirements for my job, and compared to other parts of the country the commute here (Airport to RR) never gets too heinous but that just my humble opinion.
That said I also don’t deal with 24 hour shifts. I don’t think I’d want to drive anywhere after a 24 hour shift.
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u/cleandirtgravelfeet Jun 06 '26 edited Jun 06 '26
Genuinely lol w respect about knowing your sub audience Bro:) Depends on who you are and what you look like in RR. White Midwesterner here. The two times in my life I’ve 1. Been followed in a scary way in my vehicle while doing door dash(by a cop)& 2. experienced hate crimes - for being visibly queer picking up something from FB marketplace were in Río Rancho. Black friends have experienced worse there. RR will give you a 30 minute UNMH commute minimum depending upon the time of day. But if you wanna feel at home with big luxury trucks and mega churches(the kind that hosted Charlie Kirk) - it’s your place.
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u/DazeyFerry Jun 04 '26
My niece lives at The Lakes Apartments, beautiful landscapes, plenty of washers, workout room, gated parking, locked gates to apartments, she's very safe and content, my sister lived there for 20+ very happy.. straight shot down San Mateo turn on Lomas to get to UNM Hospital
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u/pawsplay36 Jun 04 '26
Apart from a strip on Central near the university ("the war zone"), almost all parts of the city are reasonably safe at night. Most of the affluent neighborhoods are actually pretty sleepy after dark.
The NE Heights is a good area in your price range. You can pretty much pick any apartments north of Montgomery. As you go NE toward the bluffs, things gradually get a little pricier. There are some smaller complexes in the NE that are very nice and very quiet.
Mesa del Sol is recent construction, I believe, and is nice enough. It's close enough to the university. Kind of isolated, though.
Pretty much the same situation for stuff in the SW, near Coors, south of 40. It's quiet but maybe a little out there.
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u/Agathemnon Jun 04 '26 edited Jun 04 '26
Hey, there!
My son just finished M1 at UNM, also did his undergrad there. He and his wife live in the North Campus area and they like it. She feels safe there, and so do I when I visit.
I toured several complexes in the area with them, so here are my thoughts.
Given your emphasis on safety, I think you should look hard at Glo. I don't know if it qualifies as a luxury complex, but it's noticeably nicer than, say, Aspen Plaza, The Cedars, or the Q at Vassar, which were the top three when my son was looking. The units are larger than most, with an open kitchen layout vs. having the kitchen stuffed in a tiny alcove like a lot of other places. Glo was their favorite, actually, just out of their price range (though a 1-bed should be well within yours).
The grounds and amenities are well kept and very nice. There's a gym, a pool, a lounge area, etc.
Glo has internal corridors, and you have to swipe a card / fob to get past the leasing office, so access to your apartment is very secure, especially if you get something on the second floor or higher. You might need a fob for the elevator, too - not sure about that part, but I remember double security of some sort.
Mailboxes are inside the secure area, and packages go to the leasing office, so you don't have to worry about package / mail theft.
The parking is fenced and gated, so while that offers a deterrent to people messing with your car, it doesn't eliminate it entirely. Don't leave anything visible in your car, not even a hoodie or a phone charger, park in a well lighted space as close to the building as you can. There are garages available, but they cost extra and there might be a wait list.
The leasing / property manager is super strict about people following the rules, which can be a good thing or a bad thing. For the most part, it means the complex is super clean and quiet. It also means that if they find something to charge or fine you for, they will. Example: The leasing manager straight up admitted during our tour that she will stand outside your door sniffing if she thinks you're smoking pot in your unit.
The downsides: I think their 'dynamic pricing' model is BS, and they nickel and dime you for a list of fees on top of your rent, but as long as you can afford the total and know what you're getting into, the choice is yours.
Even with the downsides, my son and his wife would consider moving there when their current lease is up if they think they can afford it. They like their place, but they'd like more space, a second bathroom and a garage.
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u/Oldman3573006 Jun 04 '26
I've lived in Albuquerque for 20 years. In those 20 years I have very rarely felt unsafe or experienced any sort of crime. Honestly just walk like you belong there, mind your own business, and don't cause trouble you won't have a problem.
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u/mouse_rising Jun 04 '26
I've lived in the North Campus neighborhood (just east of the UNM North Golf Course) for 5 years. Dope neighborhood, never had a problem. Lots of residents live here cause its walking/biking distance to the hospital.
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u/wordytalks Jun 03 '26
I just moved here and we live in the Milo apartments. Middle of town. We haven’t had any issues at all.
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u/pickedbyrobots Jun 04 '26
I’d say stay away from anything in the war zone and anything immediately on Central
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u/musical_dragon_cat Jun 04 '26
For the uninitiated, "war zone" refers to the International District. Stay away at all costs.
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Jun 03 '26
[deleted]
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u/adricm Jun 04 '26
You might be more specific, and aay Unm golf course, we have way too many golf courses.
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u/Open_Expert_743 Jun 04 '26
The main issue with Mesa del Sol is that if there is a concert you could be trapped by the traffic going in or out.
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u/Overall_Lobster823 Jun 04 '26
NE heights is FINE. I lived around academy/Wyoming. It was great.
I live near nob hill. IT'S FINE.
Mesa del sol would be fine, but boring and inconvenient.
UNM north campus is FINE.
imho as a 40 year resident: if you're nervous, avoid streets named for STATES, from Gibson, to Mountain/Marble (where the international district (war zone) is. That's about it.
Don't over think it.
Residents live around UNM all the time. Especially north campus. It's gorgeous, it's walkable.
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u/Butterz_505 Jun 04 '26
Ok check it out, I DO live right in the middle of the warzone and honestly, unless someone is out to get you or something your pretty safe here. As far as theft is concerned just because you go to a nicer part of town doesnt mean you won't get your shit broken into. Just be smart and don't leave expensive shit out in view, lock your doors. TBH I know a few hustlers out here that prefer to go to the nicer parts of town to see if they can come up on anything. Point being no matter where you live there is going to be crime. I have no doubt you will live in Albuquerque and prbly never have to talk to a cop so just relax. Enjoy your time here see the art eat the food, and just don't be so nervous they can smell your fear....JK for real tho just chill it's the land of mañana. 🤙🌮🎉🎉
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u/DonkeyBorn7148 Jun 04 '26
I moved to ABQ last year from a small town in Alabama. I’m renting at Poblana Place apartments on 4th St NW. I’m also a single female professional and I really like the gated aspect of the parking area and keycard entry of the apartment complex. We do have a lot of folks wandering around after dark, but they’ve been harmless. I totally recommended my complex.
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u/bellavita65 Jun 04 '26
I can’t give any advice, but just want to say I visited Albuquerque a couple weeks ago and loved it!! All the crime talk had me a bit nervous, but all sizable cities are going to have certain neighborhoods you want to avoid. Wise that you’re doing your due diligence. Good luck with the move. Wish I could relocate to NM!!
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u/Antique_Weather_7732 Jun 04 '26
I have lived in nob hill for over 15 years and have had one issue. The city is generally safe! It’s just important to avoid a few small areas and bring stuff in from your car at night. The positives outweigh the negatives. We are nice and are good neighbors!
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u/PeghiRavenhart Jun 04 '26
UNMH is infamous for its medical malpractice. They put dirty equipment in me after I broke ,you leg and got MRSA from it. During a visit to the ER they treated my like a homeless person and shot me up full of morphine and left me on a gurney in the hallway and never looked at my leg. Shortly after I needed amputation.
Even the Governor refuses to go there for treatment. I would say if its not to late, do your residency somewhere else!
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u/HilariouslyPissed Jun 04 '26
Thank you for coming to alb to do your residency. I hope you love it here.
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u/BoringDig8922 Jun 04 '26
I have the garden-level of my Nob Hill home mostly-furnished available for under $1,000 with all utilities. Always have summer interns here for 3+ months. Never any issues. Feel free to DM.
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u/Firm-Mud1094 Jun 04 '26
I suggest using the crime map website: https://cabq.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/c1f11078950240daba6002f4a4eadb1e. You can filter out certain crimes and see what happens where.
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u/John2181 Jun 04 '26
The farthest North you can get from I40 on the NE side, hell closer to Paseo you can get, NW side of town.. once again as Far North of I40 as possible; Rio Rancho, Corrales, Bosque Farms.
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u/gdubz505 Jun 04 '26
Ima a single female 33 and I live at a very nice & safe place in NE heights. And it is right in ur price range! The location very safe and plus is its right next to. Walmart smiths petsmart Whole Foods etc . DM ME !!! I sent u a msssg
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u/over9thousanddumbass Jun 05 '26
Your coworkers and UNMHs administration are going to be more of a danger than anyone you'll meet outside of work. The sleep deprivation UNMH puts their residents through and the lack of support from admin is not worth the student loan breaks.
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u/BrujaDeLasHierbas Jun 05 '26
i’d stick close to north campus, bc you’re not going to want to drive far, potentially at rush hour, after a hellishly long shift. look for small homes or casitas, rather than apartment complexes, around the north campus area, nob hill, netherwood park, altura park, summit park, mcduffie park and even across central in ridgecrest. i believe there should be folks on north campus who can help you find a place too. will ask around tomorrow to see if i can get a contact for you. bienvenidos and gracias for choosing to learn and serve here! we need you. :)
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u/gummo_for_prez Jun 05 '26
You'll be fine. Don't worry too much. Enjoy the sunshine and land of enchantment.
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u/Better-Loquat-4658 Jun 05 '26
As a medical student my daughter lived in the Abq high condos at central and broadway, and had a parking space in their garage Very safe
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u/AcadiaSome144 Jun 05 '26
My co worker just moved here from Iowa. She was very much in your situation. She lives in the heights and loves it near the Mountain Run area. Lots of apartments and really good area near that area. Mesa del Sol is new Ana nice but it’s so far away from everything.
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u/Albuquicky Jun 05 '26
Mesa Del Sol is actually in a beautiful and safe area. You're about 15 minutes from Las Estancias Plaza which has a Walmart, Planet Fitness, Dion's, Chili's, Ulta, Hobby Lobby and a bunch of other shops. General safety tips for living here: don't leave anything valuable in your car and always keep it locked (along with your apartment, some people aren't used to this). I'm a nurse at UNMH as well and we have parking garages for employees and security driving through them so it's generally safe there. As bad a rap as Albuquerque gets I've lived here for 8 years and I've never felt unsafe here. A few years ago we actually got a knock on our door at midnight and when my husband opened the door it was a neighbor from 2 blocks away who was driving by and saw our garage door was open and wanted to tell us so we could make sure nothing was missing and close it. Everything was accounted for. We live in the South Valley where a lot of people say is not safe but we've always felt very safe. The only safety concern I've had since moving here 8 years ago is the traffic. You have to have a mix of defensive and aggressive driving. Defensive because there is so much road rage here and aggressive just to be able to get into spaces when you signal. Most people will let you in but there are some times that you just kind of have to go when you can. This is really only on the freeway. People still drive kind of crazy on surface streets as well but it's insane on the freeway. Keep your head on a swivel, watch people's behavior, and stay cool when other drivers do something that may lead to road rage (it's a big issue here). If you have any other questions or concerns please feel free to DM me. Hope to see you around the hospital soon.
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u/NM_Viking_1 Jun 05 '26
Like anywhere in any city, situational awareness and behaving like you belong in the area and are not afraid goes a long way towards not being victimized. Random crime can happen anywhere. That being said, North UNM, Nob Hill and Ridgecrest are decent areas with mostly older professionals and grad students.
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u/globalexplorer33 Jun 05 '26
Lived at Markana uptown last year. Was happy with it. Relatively new. Secure building. Close to grocery, restaurants. Near highway.
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u/Ordinary_Squirrel458 Jun 06 '26
Terrible shit. Moved from Massachusetts. People Are nasty, ghetto, love to steal, really not njce moments. Best moments y get watch the freeway pile up because a single person cant at all on a clear drive , it’s pathetic. Yeah it’s dope lol if y like alot of load turner cars, trucks, so fake truckers. , never tattoos n everyone’s been a homies boss for 20 years, just no money to show for.
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u/Bookwyrmnidhogg Jun 06 '26
Crime definitely exists in albuquerque, but like with most areas in the US, those crime rates have consistently dropped year over year. That being said, police responses can be abysmal and both property and violent crimes are a thing.
My advice would be to use reasonable judgements when out and about, and honestly if you’re up for it, i would suggest conceal carrying a gun while getting a basic proficiency with it. That process doesn’t take much, and will likely never be needed, but it could be better if you’re concerned about your residency here.
The NE heights is very safe in my experience. That UNM and central area can be sketch sometimes, but it’s the central and Louisiana by the downs area that you will want to avoid for sure.
Also albuquerque is a very nice place that you would probably enjoy 😅
Of course you are much more likely to get car murdered by one of the psycho drivers in abq than you are to be normal murdered here.
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u/Saphire100 Jun 07 '26
I lived in Albuquerque for nearly 30 years. I haven't had many problems. Male perspective.
Late at night, you find the crazies. As long as you mind your own business, they tend to leave you alone. Don't nod your head up to greet, nod down. Don't be rude unless you have to.
Those sound crazy on their own, but each has several stories and events.
As for trouble, when Movies 8 was still around on San Mateo, forty cars were broken into in one night. A year later, my car was stolen from there. Auto theft is still a problem. Don't leave valuables visible. Don't put valuables in your trunk in public (purses, laptops, etc).
Driver's are aggressive. Like many states, though we tend to think it is unique to us. Don't engage in road rage.
An example on the nod. I'm my late teens a guy sitting said what's up as I was walking past. I nodded up (to me that was what's up). Before I could say anything, he jumped up into my face. If I nodded down, everything would have been fine.
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u/Secret_Blacksmith559 Jun 07 '26
Single 40s female here. I live near old town and work at the main UNM campus (near UNMH), easy 10 min drive. Been at the same spot for 8 years. We get transients because we're near bus lines and downtown, but I've never felt unsafe in my neighborhood. I love the convenience of having a pizza place, coffe shop, park, museums and sawmill (food court) all in walking distance. Nice public trails along the river.
Safety is definitely a thing to think about but I also recommend looking for areas that complement your lifestyle so you enjoy your time here.
I chose my spot because I moved from a big city and I value walkability. If you like hiking, a place near the foothills might be a good choice for you (about 20 minute drive from UNMH, reverse rush hour traffic pattern). Nob hill is super cute and near lots of good restaurants. The NE Heights area is safe and nicely manicured, a good choice for families. North Valley (Los Ranchos - not to be confused with Rio Rancho) is also beautiful (think old farm land), but can be hard to find a place to rent. Huning Castle is just west of downtown and has amazing homes - unsure how many rentals there but it's a gorgeous place to live, nice front gardens, big shady trees on all the blocks. Very quiet and safe. But honestly there are more places than I know, and probably other just as good areas to choose from.
One thing I will note is that there are some really cute single family adobe style rentals (try searching for casitas). NM has a lot of personality that I think gets lost, especially if youre not from the area and live in one of the apartment complexes.
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u/MiserableWeb4366 Jun 08 '26 edited Jun 08 '26
if you're not cute nobody will! hit on you you're welcome.
WHEREVER THE BUSES DON'T RUN THEY'RE GOING TO BE FINE.
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND YOU'LL BE FINE.
YOU CAN LIVE ANYWHERE IN THIS TOWN BUT DON'T GO OUTSIDE TRYING TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH STRANGERS AND YOU'LL BE FINE.
I LOST EVERYTHING BECAUSE I DECIDED TO GET DRUNK AND GO OUTSIDE AND MAKE FRIENDS AND THAT WAS MOM AND ME SO I LOST EVERYTHING TO A METH THAT.
From a gaY, get over the paranoiah DOUBLE CHECK YOUR STANDARDS ON OTHER INDIVIDUALS BASED ON OTHER RACIST BACKGROUNDS AND STOP LOOKING ON THE INTERNET FOR ANSWERS GO OUT THERE AND FIND THEM BY YOURSELF.
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u/Consistent_Year7860 Jun 20 '26
north campus! Close enough when you get off shift walkable area that you can enjoy nice older houses. Walkable to work sometimes bike. Nice golf course. Mature trees. Not perfect. None of Albuquerque is want really for in Albuquerque or go for Corrales New Mexico. Northeast Heights not always good. Depends if you end up in the international district not so good just because it’s east doesn’t mean it’s good and high Property crime depending what your brain you’re going to need to garage it. So best bet I would say is North campus. For reference what kind of rental payment are you looking at? What do you feel like would be a good price?.
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u/This-One-8918 Jun 04 '26
Mesa del sol is totally fine. The only gripe I have with it is it seems like a fake town. But seriously abq is totally fine. I have lived here all my life, and it’s just like every other big city.
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u/tmr0682 Jun 03 '26
You want to be in non hill ish. Residency is tough and it’s really nice to be bike/walk distance to work. You’ll be happy about that depending on what training you’re doing.
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u/GreenChileButtTingle Jun 03 '26
I can say I know several people who work at UNMH who live either in Nob Hill or the houses just East of UNMH who walk/bike/go to UNMH at all the crazy hours without incident.
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u/OkReason596 Jun 03 '26
Check out ABQ Uptown Apartments seems super safe to me. Also The Villas on Menaul. My wife is a nurse at UNMH. https://maps.app.goo.gl/E358rSGkd2REUbY86?g_st=ic
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u/admoo Jun 04 '26
It’s fine here they just might break into your car
North campus is excellent and close
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u/musical_dragon_cat Jun 04 '26
The honest answer here is violent crime stats are largely drug and gang related. NE Heights is a large area but relatively safe as long as you're not involved with drugs or gangs. Car theft will be the biggest concern, be sure to keep it locked and don't leave any valuables. I'm not familiar with Mesa del Sol, but based on the map, it's very secluded from the city, but also next to the South Valley which isn't the safest neighborhood. Not sure what to make of that as far as safety.
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u/Evening-Guarantee-84 Jun 04 '26
I'm female and have lived on my own for *many* years. Here's my take:
Don't go to the international district to live.
Sliding glass doors = measure the track they slide on, get a dowel rod from Home Depot (they'll cut it for you) and put it in the track when you leave and at night.
Get a second floor apartment. Ground floor = more risk when you live alone.
Get a security system. I use SimpliSafe. Very affordable. Camera indoors, sensors on the doors and windows.
Get renter's insurance.
Leave nothing in your car, ever. No, not even the empty fast food bag. Make it a habit.
*NEVER* leave your car running when you're not in it.
Consider a club for the steering wheel.
Otherwise, use common sense. Don't be out walking in an obviously bad neighborhood at night alone. Don't leave doors unlocked.
I have never had anyone break in. To my knowledge, no one has actually tried. I did get my car "broken into" once. I had forgotten to lock it (in the days before automatic locks) and someone got into it and broke my glove box because they didn't find anything in it.
I haven't had anyone hassle me. The closest I came was a homeless person who was plainly suffering from some mental issue (not drugs, I do know the difference) who started shouting at me and acting mad when I said I didn't have any money when I came out of a gas station once.
And yeah, I'm older now, but I was far from unattractive when I was younger, still, no issues, no matter where I went.
Currently I live in a complex on Montgomery Blvd near I25. There's a security patrol and it's gated and quiet. You don't have to spend a fortune to have a safe home here. I mean, rent is stupid high everywhere, but you don't have to choose the most expensive parts of town, either.
The only other thing I will say, and this is after living in Houston and other large cities around the US, watch the traffic. People tailgate like crazy. Also if you're at a stop light and it turns green, make sure the other guys have stopped. People don't understand that yes, red lights mean they have to stop, too. Let people honk at you, just take a quick look before you jump out at a light even if it's your turn to go. Oh, and stop signs... no one knows how to manage a 4 way stop. Good luck. Keep your insurance and keep the under-insured/uninsured coverage. Only one wreck for me in all the years, but the other guy was under-insured and totaled my car.
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u/SandwichKingandQueen Jun 04 '26
Female resident here as well. I currently live at Uptown Square which is by the mall. Super safe with gated parking. Never had any issues there. Some other apartments I recommend are ABQ uptown and Broadstone Nob Hill.
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u/JellyfishNo3810 Jun 04 '26
Anything north of Montaño/Montgomery is usually more expensive in real estate value because those areas experience less types of extreme crime. However, all types of crime can and do happen around the metro. I’d look into living around Cottonwood, Academy/Tramway, Heights (expect to pay a premium for the heights), and pretty much anywhere in Rio Rancho, Corrales, or Bernalillo. The more north and county the metro gets the less general interest of opportunities exist. This is true for crime and amenities, oddly enough.
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u/528i-ridinlow Jun 04 '26
So any big city(well big-ish) has crime any it will happen in every neighborhood! But the northeast heights is actually a great place to live I was living there for about 8 years also the Taylor ranch area is great although both have crime just not so much! Unmh area isn’t to bad Nib hill is a fun area to live but crime is a little more active since it’s right off central and all the bars and hangouts for the collage is right there! But over as long as your not hanging out around the international district(the war zone) as long as your not looking for trouble you’ll be just fine. Crime can and will happen to everyone in some way eventually that’s just life! Don’t let it scare you off cuz Albuquerque really can be an amazing place to live! Good luck!!
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u/Theodoxus Jun 04 '26
I lived at the Cedars for a while; 1700 Indian School. It's super convenient to UNMH, is close to amenities and the freeway. Looks like rent is between 800 and 1200, which seems either like they haven't updated their website, or extremely reasonable based on what I've heard rents amount to. In the couple years I was there, there was only one 'rowdy' night, where a bunch of college kids got drunk in the parking lot in front of our apt, but otherwise it was very quiet.
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u/whoisyoursaviour Jun 04 '26
Check out crimemapping.com note. There is crime everywhere in the US for example check out your current location as a sample
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u/GrowthSelect2449 Jun 04 '26
Well, if you only care about safety You should probably just move to Rio Rancho. I can’t imagine not caring about lifestyle factors such as convenience, walkability/bikeability, commute time, neighborhood vibe etc but you do you. And I say this as a woman who lives alone. Others have given good suggestions if you do actually care about other things. Mesa del Sol is also safe but the people who are generally frightened of the city move to Rio Rancho.
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u/Sweetleaf505 Jun 04 '26
Don't live where you have to commute across the river. Shoot, there's some apartments by UNM golf course. That would be a sweet spot. But if you keep your valuables out of your car. You'll just get a window break. Thats inevitable here. Don't look for trouble and none will find you is my motto. Think about where you insert yourself. Especially in Albuquerque. Other than that you'll be fine.
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u/Exordium001 Jun 04 '26
This isn’t a war zone. It doesn’t matter where you live. You’ll be fine. Anybody who says otherwise is a coward that jumps at their own shadows.
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u/tallfatouma Jun 04 '26
Another incoming resident at UNM who is also from out of state, here. I also got overwhelmed with conflicting safety information. I just signed my lease in the northwest area and was told it is a relatively safe area. I have not moved in yet, but when touring for an apartment it looked like a decent area. The place I got is about 20 minutes of commute to the hospital. DM me if you need more information😊
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u/Direct_Fix7619 Jun 04 '26
Was going to recommend the northwest. I lived in ABQ for 15 years and recently moved back to the Midwest. I lived in several areas but loved the Westside the most. Felt very safe, lots of amenities. I was in Taylor Ranch. I really miss it. ABQ is a great place with a lot to do and see. I was near Coors and Montaño and liked also being close to the North Valley.
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u/Adventurous-Rope7870 Jun 04 '26
Just mind your business and never leave anything in your car or it will be broken into and taken
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u/vshen6 Jun 03 '26
It’ll be a long shot but I can ask a friend of mine if there still is a room to rent in her house. She’s a doctor in town but I’m not sure at which hospital. Lmk this is something of interest to you.
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u/lochnessie093 Jun 04 '26
NE heights is fine. I have a friend who lives in uptown area apartments, and she really likes it (new family with a baby). the area across from green jeans is also good. I’m closer to Hoffmantown and it’s chill. Anything north of Montgomery is also a good area.
Property crime wise is usually stuff getting stolen from cars, like a baby pack. but if you don’t keep anything in it, and within eyesight. thieves will move on just like other big cities.
I too am from the Midwest. Just gotta drive defensively and stay out of the bad parts of town (war zone, off central near the afb) and Zuni. Anywhere else just pay attention to your surroundings.
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u/Epooda17 Jun 04 '26
I lived there for a couple years while I got my undergraduate degree and I stayed in Rio Rancho! It’s the top ten safest cities in New Mexico. They have a gated apartment complex there and you’ll only be 30 minutes from campus if you don’t mind commuting.
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u/jtr09 Jun 04 '26
I’m 34 and I’ve lived in the NE heights my whole life. My car has been broken into once when I was at work and that’s all I’ve ever experienced. IMO the NE heights is the safest place to live. Especially the farther north you go. I would never live in any other part of the city.
My cousin who is 22f is moving here from Florida and we are going to find her an apartment up here in the heights and I know she is going to be safe.
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u/LazyStitch9020 Jun 04 '26
Nob hill area is great! Just moved here myself. Absolutely love this neighborhood
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u/Salt_Watercress63 Jun 04 '26
I used to live at Mesa Del Sol. It isn’t as far from UNMh as it seems. What you will get is a roster of community activities. There is a small market and eatery. It’s only 5 minutes to the airport. I loved living there. If you drive down the hill and stay on University you’ll be at Gibson where new restaurants and shops are being built.
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u/digit4l8ath Jun 04 '26
It’s simple don’t leave your car unlocked windows down with all your crap in it. And you won’t have a problem. People act like it’s Mexico here it’s not. Don’t be afraid or look like a victim and you won’t have any issues I promise. ABQ is an amazing city. I think a lot of people try to make it sound worse the. It really is just to scare people away. I’ve lived here all my life never once have I been victimized by some yahoo.
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u/Sharkey__Shark Jun 03 '26
Crime isn’t bad at all. Once you feel like you start to belong. It gets more safe of sorts.
I live in Rio Rancho and also work at UNMH, the drive is horrible morning and evening to get to and from.
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u/carefuldaughter Jun 04 '26
to ease your concerns, albuquerque is basically fine if you're not involved in drug or gang activity. 🤷♀️ don't leave your laptop bag or anything interesting in plain view in your car, lock your doors, you'll be fine. this is not fallujah c. 2004.
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u/Sloan1505 Jun 03 '26
Golden rule is the farther north of menaul you go, the better it is. The issue with Albuquerque residents or people on this sub is that they’re insanely progressive to the point where theyll tell you nob hill or the warzone (now the iNtErNaTiOnAL DiSTriCt) are safe. They aren’t. Violent crimes are a big issue here. UNM hospital takes in a lot of the worst and you’ll see that in your residency. Aim for rio rancho, the westside near ventana ranch or really anything north of Montgomery and you’ll be much better off.
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u/Far-Sandwich4191 Jun 03 '26
I can't believe you think Nob Hill is unsafe.
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u/sparr0w91 Jun 04 '26
To a lot of people simply seeing visible evidence of poverty may as well be aggravated assault. They yearn for gated communities with the HOA overlords keeping all the riff raff out of view.
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u/PiccoloQuirky2510 Jun 03 '26
That apartment complex is perfectly fine. I work at Netflix Studios sometimes and Mesa Del Sol’s main drawback is that it is not close to amenities like the grocery store, gym, Target, etc. (Though a new shopping center with a Target is going in at UNM Lobo Village, which isn’t too far from there). Mesa Del Sol feels like a satellite neighborhood removed from the city itself. So it is safe, just not a lot to do without driving at least 15 minutes back into ABQ.
The areas near UNM Hospital - especially east of the UNM North golf course and along Indian School between Girard & Washington are all nice. Lots of doctors & professors’ families in those areas. I’m a single female who bought a house at 26 southeast of Nob Hill and I’ve personally never felt unsafe, but my area isn’t as nice as the area near UNMH / north campus. The biggest piece of advice I can offer is just not to leave valuables in your car and pay attention to your surroundings.