Rio Rancho is conveniently located minutes from downtown Albuquerque and Santa Fe, which allows for art and cultural activities reflective of New Mexico’s unique blend of Native American, Spanish and Western influence. Rio Rancho was originally part of the Alameda Land Grant, which was created by the Spanish in 1710. The city began in the 1960s on just 55,000 acres, was incorporated in 1981, and now has a population of 87,000+ people and is known for being one of New Mexico’s fastest growing cities.
Rio Rancho, New Mexico, is situated at 5,679 feet above sea level and offers a beautiful high desert climate where locals and tourists alike can reap the benefits of 300 days of sunshine every year. This type of weather makes it possible to enjoy the abundant outdoor activities (hiking, biking, ballooning and more) nearly year-round. Rio Rancho also gets an occasional snowfall, adding snow-skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding to our range of outdoor living. Just a short drive from Mariposa, you will find ski resorts, plenty of parks (eight designed especially for your four-legged companions), extensive bike paths, and many hiking trails.
Whether your passion is film, sports or food, Rio Rancho has much to offer. As a member of the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI), Rio Rancho welcomes filmmakers with one-stop permitting, local talent and location scouting, movie studios and production facilities.
Rio Rancho is also host to many great eateries, local vineyards along what is known as the Corrales Wine Loop, and other great nightlife and entertainment options. The “new downtown,” Rio Rancho City Center, is home to the Santa Ana Star Center, a 160-acre sports and entertainment complex with an additional 25 acres of retail, entertainment and dining planned right next door.
With all that Mariposa has to offer we cannot forget about the top-notch schools. Rio Rancho Public Schools are excellent new schools to which all Mariposa children have access. Many elementary, middle and high schools in Rio Rancho have earned high ratings by several reputable organizations including www.greatschools.org.
Visit the City of Rio Rancho’s website for more information.
(505) 823-9360