Ridgecrest

Albuquerque, NM

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$374,994 (as of May 2025, Ridgecrest Dr)
Median Home Price
65-75 (walkable by Albuquerque standards; higher along Ridgecrest Dr and near parks)
Walkability Score
Bandelier Elementary is highly rated; Wilson Middle and Highland High have average ratings but offer diverse programs.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Generally bounded by Zuni Rd SE (north), Carlisle Blvd SE (west), Gibson Blvd SE (south), and San Mateo Blvd SE (east).

Zip Codes

87108

Market Data Summary

Price RangeRecent sales and listings range from $350,000 to $450,000, with some larger or renovated homes exceeding $500,000.
Price per Sq Ft$216 (citywide median as of May 2025; Ridgecrest typically trends slightly above average due to desirability)[1][4]
Inventory LevelsLow to moderate; Ridgecrest inventory is typically tighter than city average, with homes often receiving multiple offers if well-priced.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family detached homesSome duplexes and small multifamily

Architectural Styles

Mid-century modernPueblo RevivalRanchContemporary remodels

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.15 to 0.25 acres; some larger lots on Ridgecrest Dr.
Home Age RangePrimarily 1940s-1960s, with some newer infill and remodels.
Construction QualityGenerally high, with many homes featuring original hardwood floors, brick or stucco exteriors, and mature landscaping.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse mix of professionals, academics, retirees, and families. Many residents are affiliated with UNM, Kirtland AFB, or local hospitals.

Community Vibe

Established, walkable, and neighborly with a strong sense of pride and community involvement.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Retirees
  • University staff/students

Family Friendly

Yes; quiet streets, mature trees, and proximity to parks make it attractive to families.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Ridgecrest Park
  • Burton Park
  • Proximity to Nob Hill and UNM golf course

Dining Options

  • Local cafes
  • Ethnic restaurants
  • Quick access to Nob Hill dining scene

Shopping Centers

  • Nob Hill Shopping District
  • Sprouts Farmers Market (nearby)
  • Local shops along Central Ave

Local Businesses

  • Coffee shops
  • Boutique fitness studios
  • Local bakeries
  • Neighborhood markets

Education & Schools

Bandelier Elementary is highly rated; Wilson Middle and Highland High have average ratings but offer diverse programs.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Bandelier Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Wilson Middle School

High Schools

  • Highland High School

Private Schools

  • Sandia Preparatory School (nearby)
  • Holy Ghost Catholic School

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • ABQ Ride bus routes along Carlisle, San Mateo, and Central

Major Roads

  • Carlisle Blvd SE
  • San Mateo Blvd SE
  • Gibson Blvd SE
  • Central Ave

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10-15 minutes to Downtown Albuquerque, 10 minutes to UNM, 15-20 minutes to Kirtland AFB.
WalkabilityGood for Albuquerque; sidewalks, bike lanes, and proximity to amenities.
ParkingMostly off-street and driveway parking; some on-street parking, generally sufficient except during events.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Medical/university staff
  • Families with school-age children
  • Retirees seeking walkable lifestyle

Key Selling Points

  • Character homes with original features
  • Tree-lined streets and parks
  • Central location with easy access to amenities

Pricing Considerations

Homes with updates and preserved character command a premium; overpricing leads to longer days on market even in tight inventory.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may need repairs or updates

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports and highlight recent upgrades; connect buyers with trusted contractors.

Objection: School ratings for middle/high school are average

Response Strategy:

Emphasize Bandelier Elementary and proximity to private/charter options; discuss after-school programs.

Objection: Higher price per square foot than some nearby areas

Response Strategy:

Highlight unique character, walkability, and long-term value retention.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate to strong; character homes and location near UNM/Nob Hill support long-term value.

Rental Demand

High, especially for university staff, students, and medical professionals.

Buyer Competition

Moderate; well-priced homes attract multiple offers, especially those with updates or historic charm.

Best For

  • Owner-occupants seeking character homes
  • Investors targeting stable rental income
  • Families valuing walkability and schools

Potential Concerns

  • Older homes may require updates
  • Limited new construction
  • Occasional higher prices for renovated properties

Professional Recommendations

1

Educate buyers on the value of historic homes and potential for appreciation.

2

Stage and professionally photograph homes to highlight unique features.

3

Network with UNM and hospital HR departments for relocation leads.

4

Monitor inventory closely and act quickly on well-priced listings.

5

Prepare buyers for potential competition and the need for strong offers.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Nob Hill
  • UNM South
  • Siesta Hills

Market Positioning

Ridgecrest is positioned as a premium, character-rich alternative to Nob Hill with better value and a quieter setting.

Competitive Advantages

  • More affordable than Nob Hill, but with similar charm
  • Quieter and more residential than UNM South
  • Larger lots and more mature landscaping than Siesta Hills

Price Comparison

Median prices are slightly above city average but below Nob Hill; price per square foot is justified by unique architecture and location.

Investment Metrics

4.5-5.5% (typical for well-maintained rentals in Ridgecrest)
Cap Rates
5-6% gross annual yield for single-family homes
Rental Yields
18-20 (reflects strong rental demand and stable pricing)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with 20% down and market rents, especially for updated properties.
Cash Flow
3-4% annually over next 3 years, barring major economic shifts.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Appealing due to central location and walkability, but may face competition and need to budget for updates.

Move-Up Buyers

Attractive for those seeking larger lots or character homes; opportunity to buy into a stable, established neighborhood.

Downsizers

Good fit for retirees seeking single-level living and proximity to amenities.

Investors

Strong rental demand and stable appreciation; focus on properties near UNM or with ADU potential.

Relocators

Popular with university/medical staff and those seeking a walkable, central Albuquerque lifestyle.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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