Searching for a great retirement destination? Here’s what people are saying about why Las Cruces, NM, is the best place to retire.

After just one visit to Las Cruces, you’ll see that this is a city that draws you in and doesn’t let go. The sunny days, outdoor adventures, cultural opportunities, and cost of living benefits make retiring in Las Cruces, NM, a no-brainer. And with a wide variety of new homes in Las Cruces, NM, finding the perfect place to settle down is easy. But don’t take our word for it. Here’s what people in the know are saying about this retirement-friendly destination in the Land of Enchantment.

Stimulating Surroundings

“THE SUNNY SPOT IS FLYING HIGH.” – BestCities.org

This bright outlook is how BestCities.org summed up the “city of the crosses” when they added Las Cruces to their list of 100 Best Small American Cities in 2020. With approximately 320 days of sunshine each year, the scenic city in the Chihuahua Desert has earned its reputation as a sunny spot where retirees can spend more time enjoying their surroundings and fewer moments worrying about snow shovels, rain gear, and weather delays. Perhaps that is why it is the second most populated city in the state, and has been named one of the happiest cities in the US. The biggest challenge in this desirable location? With the constant sunny weather beckoning you out for golfing, tennis, hiking, and more, how will you get all your to-do lists done in the remaining 45 days each year? 

Las Cruces is the best place to retire with these sunny advantages:

• Enjoy warm-weather health benefits
• Experience the change of seasons in a temperate southwest environment
• Live a carefree lifestyle with increased opportunities for outdoor fun
• Test your swing at the award-winning Sonoma Ranch Golf Course

Thriving Economy

“LAS CRUCES IS THE ECONOMIC AND GEOGRAPHIC CENTER OF THE FERTILE MESILLA VALLEY” – Forbes

When Forbes was assessing the Best Small Places for Business and Careers in 2019, it highlighted the metro area’s economic advantages along with its geographic attributes, noting that both offer favorable conditions for retirees. In addition to citing a cost of living that is 11% below the national average, the Forbes list of retiree benefits mentioned the temperate climate and “low serious crime rate” as well as some tax breaks.

Following the Forbes report, a June 2021 WalletHub listing ranked Las Cruces #9 among the Best Run Cities in the U.S.  In the study that focused on operating efficiency, cities were evaluated for the quality of services and budgeting related to financial stability, education, health, safety, economy, and infrastructure & pollution.  A study of this type is sure to attract the attention of retirees seeking the quality of life advantages associated with living in a well-managed community.

Retire in Las Cruces and enjoy community benefits:

• Live better in a city managed for PEAK performance 
• Stretch your dollar with cost of living advantages 
• Get easy access to daily accommodations and services

Outdoor Adventures

“THE ORGAN MOUNTAINS OFFER LAS CRUCENS A BEAUTIFUL VISTA EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR.” – John Taylor, Organ Mountain Technical Rescue Squad 

We like the way expert climber John Taylor described the views Las Cruces locals get to enjoy on a daily basis. Whether you’re running routine errands, biking around town, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, you’ll be treated to remarkable views in this picturesque city nestled in one the country’s best retirement regions. Here’s how the 2019 Forbes list of the Best Small Places for Business and Careers characterized the Las Cruces backdrop: “The majestic Organ Mountains are dominant in the city’s landscape, along with the Doña Ana Mountains, Robledo Mountains, and Picacho Peak.” 

Enjoy these outdoor adventures when you retire in Las Cruces:

• Hike trails at Picacho Canyon Loop, Dripping Springs, and a host of other scenic sites
• Sled down the dunes at the 145,767 acre White Sands National Park (Formerly White Sands National Monument) or plan a Ruidoso weekend getaway
• Enjoy year-round golf at mountain-view venues such as Red Hawk Golf Club 

Active Lifestyle

“LAS CRUCES WAS INCLUDED ON OUR LIST OF THE MOST FITNESS-FRIENDLY CITIES IN 2020.” – Insurify

When Insurify was handing out awards for the country’s fittest cities in 2020, Las Cruces was singled out for its proven focus on health and fitness. In compiling the rankings, the insurance comparison group evaluated communities across the United States for a variety of features, including their “availability and accessibility of outdoor recreation areas.” It’s no surprise to see Las Cruces included on this list because it makes sense that people who live in a beautiful place are more inclined to get outside, experience the surroundings, and stick to that exercise routine.  

According to the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps provided by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, the metrics for Doña Ana County in southern New Mexico (where Las Cruces is located) have placed it #3 overall among the 33 New Mexico jurisdictions. With a focus on high-quality healthcare and a wide variety of activities specially designed for residents over 50,  the city has become one of the best retirement communities in the US. From organized sports leagues and fitness classes to hiking and biking adventures, Las Cruces offers a host of programs and services for every interest. 

Join in these activities and more when you retire in Las Cruces:

• Compete in a recreational sports league
• Start a yoga or Zumba routine
• Attend planned programs with fellow foodies and fitness fans

Rich in History & Culture

“AARP THE MAGAZINE NAMED LAS CRUCES ‘A RETIREMENT DREAM TOWN.’” – AARP

In 10 Great Sunny Places to Retire, AARP highlighted Las Cruces’ small-town benefits amid its big-city stature.  As the second-largest city in New Mexico, Las Cruces offers a lively downtown cultural scene, including restaurants, galleries, deco theaters, music venues, and more. Lifelong learning opportunities abound in this energetic college town that is home to New Mexico State University’s main campus.  

Yet, this southwest cultural hub maintains its small-town appeal, attracting visitors and friendly, inclusive residents with produce markets, craft fairs, seasonal festivals, historic sites, and more.  Love the movie scene? Check out the foreign reels, special features, and long-time favorites playing at the Fountain Theatre, New Mexico’s oldest film house. 

Las Cruces is the best place to retire in a vibrant culture with a rich southwestern heritage:

• Catch a show at the American Southwest Theatre Company at New Mexico State University, the Rio Grande Theatre, Las Cruces Community Theatre, and more
• Attend the Renaissance Craft Fair, Fourth of July Electric Light Parade, festivals, and year-round farmers markets
• Dine at iconic venues known for tasty chilies and authentic Mexican cuisine 

Carefree Living

“PEOPLE LOVE OUR LAS CRUCES LOCATION AT RED HAWK ESTATES. ALONG WITH BEING CLOSE TO RESTAURANTS, GYMS, AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES – IT HAS GORGEOUS GOLF COURSE VIEWS. – Niel Campbell, Rio Grande Division President, Hakes Brothers

This quote from Niel Campbell characterizes the type of lifestyle you can expect in Las Cruces.  Communities such as Red Hawk Estates and The Trails at Metro offer carefree living that includes a surrounding neighborhood of cultural, fitness, and entertainment amenities.  When it comes to finding a new home in Las Cruces, we recommend turning to a trusted regional builder in Las Cruces like Hakes Brothers with experience in the local market. 

Spend your golden years in Las Cruces and feel right at home:

• Discover custom homes with one-level living
• Live near a golf course or other scenic site
• Streamline the process when you get prequalified

Ready to make the move to a retirement location that checks all the boxes? Discover why Las Cruces Is The Best Place To Retire.