About Albuquerque
About Albuquerque New Mexico
Albuquerque New Mexico is a city that is rich in history and combines the old and the modern in an extraordinary blend of people and cultures. It is the largest city in the state of New Mexico, located in the central part of the state straddling the Rio Grande River. The latest census data shows the city has a total population of 448,607 and the metropolitan area has a population 712,738. The metro area includes the city of Rio Rancho (one of the fastest growing cities in the country).
Albuquerque is situated on the west side of the Sandia Mountains - “Sandia” is Spanish for watermelon and the name is appropriate since the mountains turn a vibrant, pinkish red during sunset. Sandia Peak is the highest point at an elevation of 10,678 feet and is accessible via the Sandia Peak Tramway, which is the longest aerial tramway in the world. Interestingly enough, Albuquerque has one of the highest altitudes of any major city in the United States. The city’s elevation ranges from 4900 feet above sea level near the Rio Grande (in the valley) to 6500 feet in the Northeast Heights (base of the Sandia Mountains). The Rio Grande River flows North to South through the city and supports a flourishing habitat called a “bosque.”
Warm temperatures and low humidity make Albuquerque an enjoyable and comfortable place to live. In fact the region is renowned for its pleasant climate. Even in the coldest month of January the temperature can climb as high as 47 degrees, and in July and August the temperature can often be in the low 90’s. On average, the Albuquerque area receives between 10 and 12 inches of precipitation and enjoys 259 days of sunshine per year.
New Mexico’s exceptional climate and diverse natural features make it ideal for outdoor activities in all seasons. The state is full of enchanting scenery, beautiful state parks, and remarkable historical sites. Whether you enjoy golfing, skiing, bird watching, hiking, camping, boating, mountain biking, or all of the above, New Mexico offers everything for outdoor, recreational enjoyment. For instance, every October, Albuquerque hosts the 9-day International Balloon Fiesta that fills the sky with approximately 1000 hot air balloons from all over the world and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Not to be outdone, however, New Mexico’s indoor activities, resources, and events are just as impressive. Albuquerque hosts numerous performing arts venues, cultural centers, museums, libraries, and other wonderful attractions. Traditional and unconventional arts come together in a celebration of culture, both past and present. First-rate music, theater, and dance performances are abundant throughout Albuquerque’s assorted theaters and concert halls.
Higher education and employment opportunities are as vast as the New Mexico sky. Albuquerque is home to the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque Technical Vocational Institute, Kirtland Air Force Base, and Sandia National Laboratories. Bernalillo and Sandoval Counties (containing Albuquerque and Rio Rancho) host a multitude of companies spanning the range of business including healthcare, professional and technical services, construction, retail, food services, and agriculture.
