Key takeaways
- Las Vegas, New Mexico, is an ideal location for retirees seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The Santa Fe National Forest, the Santa Fe National Historic Trail, and the Gallinas River are just minutes from downtown.
- This quaint little city has nine National Register historic districts with more than 900 registered historic sites.
- With 33 hospitals in the surrounding county, affordable healthcare options abound.
- The closest airport is 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 region’s most adorable small cities, Las Vegas, New Mexico, has little in common with its larger counterpart in Nevada. It is ideal for nature-loving and budget-conscious retirees.
In fact, Las Vegas, New Mexico, is the best place to retire in the Southwest, according to Investopedia’s analysis of the best places to retire in the United States. The low cost of living makes this small town a perfect choice for retirees looking to maximize their retirement savings in a relaxed, quaint southwest community.
Important
Retirees looking to settle in Las Vegas, New Mexico should keep in mind that Social Security benefits and withdrawals from individual retirement accounts (IRAs), 401(k) accounts, and pensions are subject to taxes. However, the area’s low costs of living can offset those taxes.
An economic city
Located in San Miguel County, the picturesque city of Las Vegas offers natural beauty and low costs of living. The county has a median home value of $177,600 with a median monthly housing cost of $617, median monthly transportation cost of $1,139, and median monthly food cost of $603, making it an affordable option for retirees living on a fixed income.
| Cost of living in San Miguel County | |
|---|---|
| Monthly Expenses | Average monthly costs |
| Accommodation | $617 |
| Transport | $1,139 |
| Food | $603 |
| Taxes | $631 |
Activities in Las Vegas
Although Las Vegas is not as bustling as Sin City, there are plenty of things to do.
Retirees who want to enjoy their free time outdoors will find that in addition to two national forests, there are other options just minutes from the city. Some of the local natural attractions include:
- Santa Fe Historic Trails
- Lake Storrie State Park
- Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge
- Ria Mora National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area
- Fort Union National Monument
This community’s commitment to historic preservation is significant. More than 900 registered historic sites are located within the city limits, such as the 19th-century train depot, which serves as the city’s visitor center. And don’t miss the Las Vegas City Museum and Rough Rider Memorial Collection, which houses materials on Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. In this quiet and adorable little town, there is always more to explore.
