The Land of Enchantment

New Mexico is one of the least densely populated states, with 2.1 million residents in an area covering nearly 122,000 square miles (about 17 people per square mile). However, with several major research labs and a thriving high-tech sector, New Mexicans hold more PhDs per capita than any other state.

New Mexico's home prices are about 5% lower than the national average, and the effective property tax rate is 0.79%. The annual tax bill on an average home value of $187,000 is around $1,477.

The overall cost of living in New Mexico is about 4% less than the national average.

New Mexico has no inheritance or estate tax.

Spanish monks brought the first grapevines to New Mexico in 1629. Today, the New Mexico True Wine Trail includes 43 vineyards, wineries, and distilleries located throughout the state.

Among the most enchanting natural attractions in New Mexico are Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Petroglyph National Monument, Gila National Forest, and the extinct Capulin Volcano.

New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe was founded in 1610, making it the oldest capital city in North America. It’s also the highest capital in the United States at 7,200 feet above sea level.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and The National Hispanic Cultural Center are located in Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city, with about 550,000 residents.

There are more than 13,500 ranches and farms in New Mexico.

The statewide gross receipts tax (effectively a sales tax) is 5.125%, but most groceries, prescription drugs, and medical expenses are exempt.