Albuquerque Facts

Important Facts About Albuquerque

Albuquerque has been a desirable residence for 25,000 years, serving as home to Sandia Man (Ice Age), and Folsom Man 15,000 years later. Three thousand years ago, Indians built stone and adobe cities while farming the Rio Grande bosque. Spanish missionaries and explorers roamed the area in the 1530’s, long before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. The Spanish, Indian and Anglo cultures give Albuquerque an enchanting blend of interests and activities.

Albuquerque is a Southwest hub, situated at the intersection of I-25 and I-40. The current metro population is estimated to be over 600,000, which is about one-third of the population of the state (1,653,000 people). It is the 38th largest city in the country in terms of population. The pre-World War II population was only 35,000.

Albuquerque is roughly 133 square miles. The elevation ranges from 4,900 to 6,500 feet above sea level making it the highest metropolitan city in the United States. The elevation is one reason why colors seem so intense by day and stars so clear at night.

The metropolitan area of Albuquerque includes the city of Albuquerque, the surrounding areas of Bernalillo County, and the communities of Rio Rancho and Corrales in neighboring Sandoval County. Albuquerque is divided into four quadrants. Central Avenue is the dividing line for north and south. The railroad tracks serve as the dividing line for east and west. Each quadrant has unique character-rich qualities.

Albuquerque enjoys four distinct seasons, but all are characterized by sunny days. Summer temperatures rarely rise out of the 90’s. The annual rainfall averages about eight inches a year. The humidity averages a comfortable 43%. Although Albuquerque receives snow several times each winter, annual snowfall averages a total of only 10 inches, which melts quickly. The mountains to the east of the city act as a shield, protecting it from most arctic air masses and tornado activity.