Living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, can feel like a dream—breathtaking scenery, an arts-rich culture, and a relaxed pace of life. But is it truly a great city for seniors to age in place? In this guide, we’ll explore everything Santa Fe offers retirees: climate and lifestyle, healthcare, senior housing, community services, transportation, costs and taxes, pros and cons, and how to choose the right fit for your budget and goals.
I’m Kenny Crowley, your local Santa Fe REALTOR® and real estate resource. I share neighborhood insights, market updates, and practical lifestyle advice to help you decide if Santa Fe is right for your retirement.
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Climate & Lifestyle Perks
- Sunny, mild climate: ~300 days of sunshine, fresh mountain air, and four full seasons without the harsh extremes.
- Culture & creativity: World-class museums, galleries, music festivals, creative workshops, and endless ways to stay socially engaged.
- Natural beauty & outdoors: From Sangre de Cristo vistas to tranquil hiking/walking trails and scenic drives—daily inspiration is built in.
- Strong community ethos: Santa Fe draws people seeking connection, creativity, and purpose—small-town charm with world-class culture.
Healthcare Options in Santa Fe (and Nearby)
For a small city, Santa Fe’s healthcare is robust—and Albuquerque is only about an hour away for additional specialty care.Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center
- Established 1865; largest hospital north of Albuquerque
- Level III trauma center with 206 all-private rooms
- Extensive network: urgent care, oncology, women’s health, family medicine, cancer care, surgical services
- Community-focused hospital: emergency, inpatient, women’s care, rehabilitation, surgery, birthing
- Campus features: outpatient clinics, healing rooftop terrace, community teaching kitchen, wellness spaces
- Recently recognized for social responsibility (2025)
- Presbyterian Medical Group (St. Michael’s Dr.): family medicine, behavioral health, internal medicine, rheumatology, sleep medicine, anti-coagulation, urgent care
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Presbyterian Healthcare at Home: in-home skilled nursing; PT/OT/speech; wound/IV therapy; medication management; hospice & palliative care; provider coordination and monitoring
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Presbyterian Medical Services (senior-focused): wraparound community health—behavioral, medical, dental, and social services tailored to older adults
Senior Living & Retirement Communities
U.S. News notes 11 senior living communities in the Santa Fe area—impressive for a city this size. Many offer chef-driven dining, activity directors, pet programs, and rich social calendars. Top-rated examples mentioned:1. The Montecito of Santa Fe
- Resort-style campus (~15 acres) with independent living, assisted living, memory care
- Noted approach to dementia support; community praised for its social, vibrant feel
- Amenities: salon/spa, fitness center, clubhouse, Starlight Lounge, Garbo’s restaurant
- Approx. pricing (video reference): around $4,500/mo, varies by level of care
2. El Castillo & La Secoya (Life Plan Community)
- Santa Fe’s only continuing care / life plan community, blocks from the Plaza
- Independent living, assisted living, memory care, and nursing services
- Predictable monthly costs as care needs increase—great for long-term planning
- La Secoya: spacious units with balconies/patios, lush courtyards, putting green, fitness center, exceptional dining, downtown convenience
- Pricing available on request directly
- Independent and assisted living in Pueblo-style homes with abundant natural light and mountain views
- Active lifestyle programming, chef-prepared meals, convenient location
- Recognized among significant assisted living communities in the U.S.
- Approx. pricing (2025 video reference): ~$2,600/mo (comparatively affordable)
- Las Soleras Senior Living: cottages/casitas, independent living, wellness programming, progressive activities
- The Legacy at Santa Fe: assisted living & memory care (Aldea neighborhood); line dancing, libraries, baking clubs, salon, social lounges
- Kingston Residence of Santa Fe: assisted living & 24-hour memory care in a hospitality-oriented setting
- MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Santa Fe
- Sierra Blanca Senior Living Center
Note: Pricing reflects what’s referenced in the video at time of recording (2025) and varies by care level. Always confirm current rates and availability.
Senior Services, Community Programs & Transportation
Santa Fe and state partners offer programs under the Older Americans Act for residents 60+, including:- Home-delivered meals
- Transportation services
- Adult day care, case management, employment training, and more
- Door-to-door / curb-to-curb rides for 60+ (medical visits, errands, etc.)
- Suggested donation ~$0.50 per ride; schedule 24–72 hours in advance; vouchers/Medicaid accepted
- Weekdays 8:15 a.m.–4:30 p.m. for adults 60+
- Prioritized for medical trips; $0.50 each way; schedule at least 24 hours ahead
- Volunteer driver programs for seniors and veterans (essential errands, medical visits)
Cost of Living & Taxes for Retirees
- Cost of living: Above the national average, especially housing
- Median home price (mid-2025): ~$580,000–$600,000 (condos/townhomes often more affordable)
- Tax perks in New Mexico:
- Low property taxes
- No tax on Social Security benefits
- Potential net savings for many retirees despite higher housing costs
Always consult a tax professional for personalized guidance.
Pros & Cons of Retiring in Santa Fe
Pros- Stunning natural surroundings & mild climate
- Rich cultural life, vibrant arts & social scene
- Strong healthcare access, specialty services & home health care
- Diverse senior living options and active senior programs
- Favorable tax treatment for many retirees
- Housing prices on the higher side
- Altitude (~7,200 ft) may require adjustment for some
- Public transit is improving but limited vs. big cities
- Some services require advance scheduling and planning
Is Santa Fe Right for Your Retirement?
If you value natural beauty, a connected community, cultural richness, social life, strong healthcare access, and services that support aging in place, Santa Fe absolutely deserves a look. The key is choosing the right neighborhood, community, and care mix—while keeping your budget where you need it.That’s where I can help.
