Laurelwood, Albuquerque,NM

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming, and if you’re considering Albuquerque, NM, the neighborhood of Laurelwood in the southeast part of the city might just be the perfect place to call home. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, Laurelwood offers a blend of suburban charm with convenient access to urban amenities. Residents enjoy a community-oriented feel with plenty of parks, tree-lined streets, and local schools that make it an ideal spot for families or anyone looking for a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.

One of the standout features of Laurelwood is its proximity to the beautiful Laurelwood Park, a favorite among locals for outdoor activities like jogging, picnics, and weekend strolls. The neighborhood also boasts easy access to the Bear Canyon Open Space, perfect for hiking enthusiasts who want to explore the natural beauty of the area. For everyday needs, several shopping centers and dining options are scattered around, including cozy cafes and diverse restaurants that bring a taste of Albuquerque’s vibrant culture right to your doorstep. Whether you’re grabbing groceries or enjoying a night out, Laurelwood balances convenience with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

For those who work downtown or enjoy the buzz of city life, Laurelwood’s location is a definite plus. It’s just a short 15-minute drive northwest to Downtown Albuquerque, making it easy to commute for work or to catch a show, visit museums, or enjoy the local nightlife. The neighborhood’s accessibility to major roads and public transportation options also helps keep travel hassle-free. All in all, Laurelwood offers a warm, inviting community with plenty of perks for residents who want to enjoy the best of both suburban comfort and city excitement in Albuquerque.

34% of the Laurelwood population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 34% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Laurelwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 3,740 residents, Laurelwood is notably smaller than many other Albuquerque neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Laurelwood has a population density of 4,051, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Albuquerque neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Laurelwood crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Laurelwood, the median home price is about $217,529, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Laurelwood have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,185, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Laurelwood combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Laurelwood can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.