Albuquerque, New Mexico

Safety in Albuquerque

Detailed safety data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.

Safety in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque's safety profile presents a mixed picture. While the city reported 98 homicides in 2024, there have been some positive trends in crime reduction. Violent crimes overall decreased by 26% between 2024 and 2025, with homicides specifically dropping by 34% in the same period. Aggravated assaults also saw an 11% decrease from 2023 to 2024. However, property crime, while down overall by 34% between 2024 and 2025, saw burglaries rise by 11% in 2024. Despite these improvements in certain categories, some reports indicate an overall increase in crime rates as of August 2024, suggesting ongoing challenges in ensuring public safety.

Safety Scores

Overall Score
68.0
Livability
70
Affordability
85
Business
65
Growth
55

About Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the state's largest city, nestled in the high desert at the foot of the Sandia Mountains. Known for its unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, the city offers a distinctive Southwestern character. Its mild, dry climate with abundant sunshine and four distinct seasons is a major draw for residents. People are often attracted to Albuquerque for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities, alongside a vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a growing economy in key sectors. The city's landscape, bisected by the Rio Grande, provides a stunning backdrop for daily life and a strong sense of place.

About New Mexico

New Mexico, known as the "Land of Enchantment," offers a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. The state's economy is diversified, with major industries including oil and gas, aerospace and defense, agriculture, tourism, and advanced manufacturing. Living in New Mexico generally entails a lower cost of living compared to the national average, particularly for housing and utilities. The climate is largely arid or semi-arid with abundant sunshine, warm to hot days, and cool nights, though higher elevations experience an alpine climate with four distinct seasons. The lifestyle is often described as laid-back, with a strong sense of community and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities due to its varied landscapes.