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Carson Gutierrez living

Anyone else love living in Bernalillo?

Hey folks, I'm a college student here and Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. Homes are going for about $237,100 on average. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Any advice would be great.
8 upvotes

7 Replies

Katherine C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
40 upvotes
Mateo J.
yeah no that's not right
26 upvotes
Aaron C.
facts
25 upvotes
Kayden H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a writer who relocated here from Chicago about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and my partner's job.

Pros I've experienced:
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions

Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options

Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is hit or miss.

Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Linda P.
I work in finance here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is challenging. Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Olivia Lee
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Fairview for 2 years. Moved from Portland for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.

**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.

**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And weather can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
connor_walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a marketing manager, 46, moved here 11 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Eastside and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Summers can be brutally hot
3. The cultural scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- East: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Portland, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K here.

**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
1 upvotes
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