Key Takeaways
- Las Vegas, New Mexico, is an ideal location for retirees seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The Santa Fe National Forest, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, and the Gallinas River are all just minutes from the city center.
- This scenic small town has nine National Register historic districts with over 900 registered historic sites.
- With 33 hospitals in its surrounding county, accessible healthcare options are abundant.
- The nearest airport is the Albuquerque International Sunport, which is 110 miles from Las Vegas.
You’ve heard of Las Vegas, Nevada, but there’s actually another Las Vegas that’s a hidden gem in the southwest. Considered one of the most adorable small towns in the region, Las Vegas, New Mexico has little in common with its larger counterpart in Nevada. It’s ideal for budget-conscious and nature-loving retirees.
In fact, Las Vegas, New Mexico is the top place to retire in the southwest, according to Investopedia’s analysis of the best places to retire in the United States. A low cost of living makes this small town a perfect option for retirees seeking to maximize their retirement savings in a relaxed, scenic southwest community.
Important
Retirees looking to potentially settle down in Las Vegas, New Mexico should be aware that Social Security benefits and withdrawals from individual retirement accounts (IRAs), 401(k) accounts, and pensions are taxed. However, the area’s low living costs may offset those taxes.
A Budget-Friendly Town
Located in San Miguel County, the quaint town of Las Vegas offers both natural beauty and low living costs. The county has a median home value of $177,600 with a median monthly housing cost of $617, a median monthly transportation cost of $1,139 and a median monthly food cost of $603, making it an affordable option for retirees who are living on fixed incomes.
Cost of Living in San Miguel County
Monthly Expenses
Median Monthly Costs
Housing
$617
Transportation
$1,139
Food
$603
Taxes
$631
Activities in Las Vegas
Though this Las Vegas isn’t as bustling as Sin City, there are plenty of things to do.
Retirees who want to enjoy their free time in the great outdoors will find that in addition to two national forests, there are several other options just minutes from town. Some of the local natural attractions include:
- Santa Fe Historic Trails
- Storrie Lake State Park
- Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge
- Ria Mora National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area
- Fort Union National Monument
This community’s commitment to historical preservation is Significant. Over 900 registered historical sites are within the town limits, like the 19th Century Train Depot, which serves as the town’s visitors center. And don’t miss the City of Las Vegas Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection, which houses materials about Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. In this quiet, adorable small town, there’s always more to be explored.