Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Situated just north of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho offers an idyllic southwest retirement in the middle of the rugged desert with scenic views of the Sandia Mountains. The high-desert climate has low humidity, making the hot summers tolerable, even with 330 days of sunshine a year.

Retiring in Rio Rancho is an affordable choice, thanks to its reasonable cost of living. Housing prices in the bedroom city are less than the national average, per Zillow. It also helps that New Mexico passed legislation last year enabling most residents to not pay state income tax on their Social Security benefits. Retirees age 65 or older can deduct up to $8,000 from their taxable income. Those who happen to be 100 or older don’t have to pay any taxes on their income.

That’s some bang for your buck in Rio Rancho, which is rich in outdoor activities and Southwestern heritage. Less than a decade ago, the city implemented a plan to restore and preserve open spaces. There are five walking trails to enjoy, plus several bike paths and many parks. The Rio Rancho Prescription Trails program provides a walking guide that grades trails by their level of difficulty and wheelchair accessibility, making it easy for retirees to find trails that fit their mobility needs. 

They can also explore the nearby ancient rock carvings of the Petroglyph National Monument, filled with hiking trails, or the Bandelier National Monument, honoring the Puebloan people. Equally beautiful, but man-made, is the Santa Ana Golf Club. And if retirees want to move their fitness indoors, they can take one of many classes at the Meadowlark Senior Center or Rio Rancho Aquatic Center.

Plus, Rio Rancho is less than a 30-minute drive to Albuquerque's arts and culture scene, where retirees can enjoy the museums in Old Town and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.