Secluded mountain town centered around nuclear science
Secluded in the Jemez Mountains, 33 miles from Santa Fe, Los Alamos is a small town best known as the site of the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), where the first atomic weapons were invented in the 1940s. Today, LANL is New Mexico’s top employer and Los Alamos' biggest draw — though not its only one. “Many come here because they get a job at the laboratory," says Los Alamos Councilmember Suzie Havemann, "but the amenities, the mountains, the schools and the nice people are what get them to stay.” Residents enjoy access to millions of acres of open space, from national forests to volcanic calderas. Los Alamos County’s public schools are top-rated, and year-round events foster a sense of community. “The people here are active and intellectually curious,” Havemann says. “No matter if you’re wanting to prepare for a triathlon, learn quilt-making or do theater, you will find a club of people here who want the same thing.”
Los Alamos is a great get away for nature lovers and history buffs.
Within a beautiful forest sits Los Alamos a quiet science town with much to discover.
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Rapidly appreciating homes in Los Alamos
As of early 2025, Los Alamos’ median home price is $560,000, compared to Santa Fe’s median of $600,000 and the national median of about $410,000. Prices in Los Alamos are generally on the rise, as there's high demand, low inventory and little space to expand; much of the surrounding land is federally protected. Nonetheless, homes here tend to sell within an average of 15 days, far less than the national average of 44 days.
Most properties here are Northern New Mexico-style homes built by the government immediately following World War Two; these are most commonly found in central Los Alamos and range from $450,000 to $700,000. Newer Santa Fe-style homes can be found in the town's western and northern outskirts, with prices ranging from $700,000 to $1 million.
Traditional pueblo style homes can be found scattered around Los Alamos.
Many styles of homes can be found around Los Alamos from Traditional to Ranch and Pueblo.
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One of New Mexico's top school districts
Los Alamos Public Schools earns an overall A from Niche, which rates it the No. 2 district in the state. In 2023, the College Board named LAPS the District of the Year, citing its college-going culture and the opportunities students are given to earn college credit. The A-rated Los Alamos High is the town's sole high school, and since its founding in 1946, has won over 110 state championships. “The students are always winning awards,” Havemann says. “My son was part of state championship-winning tennis, soccer and hockey teams when he was a kid. Just the other day, a group of students won an award for using AI to detect wild animals in the dark.” The University of New Mexico also has a Los Alamos campus where students can pursue associate’s degrees.
Los Alamos is home to a University of New Mexico campus which is easily accessible for students.
Los Alamos High School is one of the highest rated schools in the state.
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Forests, ski slopes and more in Los Alamos
Surrounded by the Jemez Mountains’ steep canyons and pine forests, Los Alamos residents enjoy an abundance of natural spaces. “We’re an extremely active community, with nearly 800 miles of maintained trails,” says Ian Maes, a Los Alamos local and Realtor with the Keller Williams Maes Group. East of the township, the 14-mile-wide Valles Caldera is one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world and is often visited for its mountain meadows and natural hot springs. In the winter, the Pajarito Mountain Ski Area — often called Ski Hill — is a go-to for locals. “We’re a little smaller than Ski Santa Fe, but the hills are way steeper,” says Maes. “People take a look at our Bunny Hill and think that it’s just a regular slope.”
Within the township of Los Alamos, locals also have access to a host of parks and recreation centers. “You can get hung up on all the nature without even mentioning our Olympic-sized aquatic center,” Havemann says. “We’ve even got a new ice rink that attracts people from Canada because you can play right under the stars.”
The Pajarito Ski area is a favorite getaway near Los Alamos.
Just outside of Los Alamos sits the Valles Caldera Natural Preserve, which sits in the crater of an ancient volcano.
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Small-town shopping and events along Central Ave
Central Avenue serves as Los Alamos’s Main Street, where small businesses buzz with local traffic and events bring the community together. Art supply stores and fashion boutiques sit between cafes, noodle houses and brewpubs. The Bradbury Science Museum invites visitors to learn about the Manhattan Project, and the Ahsley Pond recreation space host the Los Alamos Summer Concert Series. “You can set up with your blanket, picnic and a bottle of wine to enjoy free music as the kids play in bouncy castles,” Maes says. A handful of grocery stores can also be found here. For more shopping and dining, as well as nightlife, most locals head south to Santa Fe.
The Los Alamos National Laboratory runs the Bradbury Science Museum, a great spot to learn about the lab.
Mermaid and the Wolf is a quaint coffee shop in the middle of downtown Los Alamos.
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Quick commute to Santa Fe
New Mexico State Road 502 runs through the center of Los Alamos, connecting residents to Pojoaque 17 miles east; from there, Santa Fe is 16 miles south. Atomic City Transit offers free bus routes between Los Alamos, White Rock and the Los Alamos Medical Center. The Los Alamos County Airport became open for public use in 2008, but most residents still rely on the Albuquerque International Sunport, 98 miles south.
Low crime figures in Los Alamos
In 2023, the Los Alamos Police Department reported crime figures significantly lower than in nearby Santa Fe. The Los Alamos National Laboratory’s security presence in the city is also high, with two vehicle access portals along Jemez Road and a third on Pajarito Road. “Safety here is key,” says Maes. “I’ve had to reach out to homeowners to ask for keys to show their house, and they’ll tell me, ‘We haven’t locked the doors in over 20 years, walk right on in.’”
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Los Alamos, NM sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Los Alamos, NM over the last 12 months is $580,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Set on 2.18 horse-zoned acres in the peaceful La Senda community, this Northern New Mexico style home offers space, privacy, and timeless Southwestern character. Designed by Nona Stone and formerly owned by a past Los Alamos National Laboratory Director, the home reflects thoughtful design and a quiet connection to local history. With more than 3,200 square feet, the residence features
Imagine sitting in your backyard as the sun rises over the eastern horizon, the sky stretching wide above you and the quiet beauty of the landscape unfolding around you. Welcome to 142 Mirador Blvd. This beautifully designed 4-bedroom, single story home offers a bright, open layout with thoughtful finishes and inviting spaces both inside and out. The open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area
Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Los Alamos’ most desirable neighborhoods, 1610 Solana is a truly rare offering. Set on over one acre (the largest lot in the neighborhood) and backing to National Forest and County land for unmatched privacy and a breathtaking natural backdrop. With arguably the best views in town, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of the townsite, the Sangre de Cristo
This updated Los Alamos condo offers easy, turn-key living with major improvements already completed. Featuring a new roof and new mini-split systems, the home provides efficient, year-round comfort—ideal for busy professionals and those relocating to the area. Inside, the layout is functional and bright, with updated kitchen and bathroom finishes that create a clean, move-in ready feel. The main
Perched on a premier canyon perimeter lot, this stunning attached single-family home offers approximately 2,034 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space with standout upgrades throughout. The main level welcomes you with a warm and spacious family room, complemented by a light-filled sunroom—perfect for a second living area, home office, or creative retreat.The beautifully updated kitchen
Located into the desirable N Community neighborhood, this charming two-story condo offers a peaceful setting with convenient access to everything Los Alamos has to offer. With designated parking at street level, a set of stairs leads you down to the front yard with retaining walls, creating a welcoming and secluded entry. Head inside to find warm wood floors flowing throughout the home and a
Welcome to this charming and versatile 3-story home located on a quiet street in North Mesa. Offering 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and over 1400 square feet of living space, this home provides comfort, flexibility, and unique features throughout. On the main level, you’re welcomed into an open-concept living and dining area, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Just off the dining
Welcome to this spacious and versatile 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-family home offering over 1,200 square feet of living space—brimming with potential and ready for your creative touch! Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or someone looking to customize your forever home, this property is a rare opportunity. Step into a warm and inviting living area complete with a charming woodburning
Located near the end of North Mesa, this beautifully maintained two-story home offers a thoughtful blend of comfort, efficiency, and flexible living space. With three bedrooms plus a versatile loft, the floor plan easily adapts to your needs, whether as a home office, reading retreat, workout area, or multi-use space. The light-filled main level features soaring south-facing windows that bring in
Two-bedroom condo with no neighbors above, offering comfortable living and thoughtful separation of spaces in desirable White Rock. The first floor features the main living areas, including the living room, dining room, kitchen, and a convenient half bath with in-unit laundry. The living room is warmed by a cozy pellet stove, creating a welcoming atmosphere during cooler months. The kitchen
Amazing curb appeal welcomes you to this beautifully maintained home, offering both comfort and versatility. Situated on a spacious lot in a quiet White Rock neighborhood, this property features ample parking, including an RV slab, and a fantastic backyard perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Step inside to an inviting open-concept kitchen and dining area that flows seamlessly into one of two
Beautifully upgraded 3,280-sq-ft home with a floor plan that provides two homes in one, set on 2+ acres, and showcasing breathtaking views of the Sangres. Welcome to 129 Piedra Loop! As you open the front door, you’re immediately immersed in natural light pouring through overhead skylights, and greeted by a cheerful atrium/solarium just off the foyer. Upstairs, a loft with stunning interior views
RENOVATED STUDIO APARTMENTS NEW IKEA FURNITURE - Can be fully furnished if needed. Under new ownership downtown Los Alamos, next to new County Building. ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED!!
Canyon Walk Apartment Homes is the newest apartment community in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Canyon Walk operates under the Affordable Housing Program created by Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code. This program is designed to facilitate the housing needs of moderate and middle income families. In Los Alamos, New Mexico, the maximum allowable incomes (by household size) at 50% AMI, is located
Los Alamos Rental, Move-in Ready, Fully furnished clean 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath duplex (1460 Square Feet) with all utilities + Internet paid). The rental unit has a Fireplace, Private Laundry Room with several cabinets (with Washer and Dryer inluded within the unit). The rental unit has a large fenced backyard right on a canyon lot with beautiful views. Walking distance to downtown, the bus stop to
500+ Square foot efficiency apartment on a double lot at the end of a cul de sac with access to the Los Alamos County trail system. All inclusive and fully furnished mitigating much of the stress of moving. Past three tenets stayed for a total of 13 years and left when they retired, or contract ended.*6 Month minimum* First and last month plus $1,000 deposit
Experience spacious living at Camino Manzana, a stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom single-family home located at 1896 Camino Manzana, Los Alamos, NM. This 2,900 sq ft residence features modern comforts including air conditioning, a balcony with scenic views, hardwood and tile flooring, an island kitchen with high-end appliances, and individual climate control. Enjoy added convenience with a garage,
Available early May for a 4 month lease! Showings starting first week of May.Centrally located unfurnished condo. Located next to bus stop. Less than 1mi from LA Medical Center, LANL Badge office, LANL TA3, Atomic City Transit Center.MONTHLY RENT: $2,500.00 SQUARE FEET: 970BEDROOMS: 2BATHS: 1.75FLOORING: CarpetYARD: Patio DeckPARKING: 2
Welcome to your new home in Los Alamos, NM! This spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom house offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The home is equipped with ceiling fans, a washer/dryer, and a large garage for your vehicle or extra storage. Nestled in a beautiful, wooded area near Guaje Pines, you'll enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings right from your doorstep. For those seeking
Affordable Studio Apartments in Los Alamos – Near LANL!Discover comfort, convenience, and affordability in the heart of Los Alamos! These well-maintained studio apartments are located just minutes from Los Alamos National Lab, with parks, schools, gyms, and restaurants all close by. Each unit includes off-street parking and access to on-site laundry facilities, making everyday living easy
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