MedPro International is placing foreign-educated healthcare professionals in exciting positions throughout the United States. This week we take a closer look at Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Situated on the banks of the Rio Grande River in the high desert, Albuquerque is the largest city and economic engine for New Mexico. Recognized for its diversity, the city is heavily influenced by Spanish and Native American cultures reflected in the local architecture, cuisine, art, and people. Albuquerque’s population is growing annually and is projected to increase by 7.2 percent in the next five years.
Albuquerque’s weather is ideal for outdoor activities.Land of Enchantment
The sun shines on Albuquerque 310 days out of the year, and so do the accolades. The city has been named one of the “Hippest Cities in the U.S.” by Insider, “One of the Best Small Cities” by National Geographic Traveler, and “One of the Best Places to Live and Work” by Movie Maker Magazine. In fact, the area has become a hotbed for TV and Film activity (Breaking Bad, Stranger Things, Transformers).
Economy
While TV and Film have made great strides in the past decade, aerospace, bioscience, renewable energy, media, and manufacturing are all key industries to the Albuquerque economy. The city is number one in market growth for aircraft structure and systems assemblers and has more than 14,400 jobs in bioscience research and development. Renewable energy contributed $3.8 billion to the GDP last year, and Film and TV account for more than $600 million in direct spending in the local economy.
The top employers are the New Mexico State Government, the U.S. Federal Government, and Sandia National Laboratories.
Local Medical Facilities
According to U.S. News & World Report, Presbyterian Hospital is the top hospital in the state, rated high performing in nine procedures and conditions among the city’s 14 facilities.
International Explorer Apryll Eunice Eun takes the Historic Train Route in New Mexico.Quality of Life
- Cost of Living: 9.2 percent below the national rate
- Population: 562,599 based on the 2020 Census
- Median Home Price: $214,600
- Median Gross Rent: $932
- Median Household Income: $56,366
- Per Capita Income: $33,494
- Live below the poverty line: 16.2 percent
- Median Age: 37.1 years
- Average commute time: 21.3 minutes
Education
Overall grade: B (Niche.com)
Student-Teacher ratio: 18-1
Serving: 83,031 students in K through high school
Albuquerque has several colleges and universities open for degree seekers or those looking to brushup on a subject. The University of New Mexico is a 4-year public university; Central New Mexico Community College and Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute are 2-year public universities, and Carrington College is a 2-year private university.
Transportation
Like most U.S. cities, personal vehicles are the most popular mode of transportation. However, Albuquerque Ride provides bus service across the city, including the new Rapid Transit (ART) electric buses with 10-mile service in dedicated lanes passing through the city. And from now until June 30, 2023, everyone can take ART, ABQ Ride, and the Sun Van free of charge.
Top Attractions:
International Explorer Eimeren Bunyi at the Albuquerque International Balloon FiestaAlbuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Each October, for nine days, the skies of Albuquerque are filled with a parade of brightly colored hot air balloons during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Multiple events are organized around the event, which features more than 500 balloons.
Shopping Shoppers have several distinct options for picking up necessities or gifts. Old Town has shops, boutiques, and galleries for Native American art, books, and home décor. Find arts, crafts, jewelry, and sculpture in Nob Hill, the city’s largest independent shopping district. Coronado Center is the largest shopping center in the state and is anchored by popular stores such as Macy’s and Dick’s Sporting goods.
Albuquerque Museum Off Route 66 in the heart of Old Town is the Albuquerque Museum, home to exhibits, interactive spaces, events, and more. The museum is one of the Southwest’s leading art, cultural, and historical institutions showcasing myriad artists.
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument An hour’s drive north of Albuquerque is the Kasha-Katuwe Rocks National Monument. Famous for its cone-shaped rock formations produced by volcanic eruptions 6 to 7 million years ago, the monument is popular for hiking, birdwatching, geologic observation, and plant identification.
Tram ascending Sandia Mountain overlooking Albuquerque, New MexicoSandia Peak Aerial Tramway Take the 2.7 -mile ascent to the peak of the Sadia Mountains for an 11,000 square mile panoramic view of Albuquerque. Go at night and see the city ablaze with lights.
Food A combination of Spanish and Native American flavors, Albuquerque cuisine’s trademark ingredients are roasted green and red chilies. Mary & Tito’s has been serving authentic New Mexican cuisine (huevos rancheros, enchiladas, burritos) for almost 60 years, and you can try the blue corn waffles at Tia Betty Blues.
Roswell Take a 3-hour road trip down route 285 to Roswell, site of the mysterious 1947 UFO crash. This small town is a magnet for UFO and space alien aficionados and anyone interested in pondering the existence of extraterrestrial life.
Are you a Foreign-Educated Registered Nurse or Allied Health Professional looking to work in the U.S.?
MedPro International is a Joint Commission-certified and leading provider of placement services to facilities across the U.S. We have successfully placed more foreign-educated healthcare professionals than any other company in our industry.
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