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Rio Rancho Community Overview

Rio Rancho was recognized by Money Magazine (August 2005) as the eighty-third (83rd) best place to live in America. The study was based on many factors including jobs/economy, crime, education, and arts & leisure. The study evaluated over 1,300 US cities and particularly recognized Rio Rancho for its quality jobs and economy.

Education, Crime and Cost of Living

The Rio Rancho Public School system constantly ranks either first or second on state standardized tests and has a graduation rate higher and drop-out rate lower than state averages. The city also has the state's second lowest crime rate and a cost-of-living rate (97.7, 4th Quarter 2005) lower than the national average (100).

Growth

With a growth rate approaching 20% (2000-2005), Rio Rancho is the fastest growing city in New Mexico and one of the fastest growing small cities in the nation. The city is experiencing record breaking new home construction rates adding more than 3,000 homes in 2005. Current population is estimated at 78,000 (2006) and is projected to reach 100,000 by 2010.

City Centre

Currently in development is Rio Rancho's new City Centre central business district. City Centre is to become the region's premier destination for upscale retail, office, dining, and entertainment venues. The development site consists of 160 acres of property and will include a new City Hall and multi-purpose Events Center. The Events Center will by completed by October 2006 and is the new home for the New Mexico Scorpions minor league hockey team.

Quality of Life

Central New Mexico is home to a number of recreational areas offering countless activities including biking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, white-water rafting, camping, hang gliding, horseback riding, hunting, fishing and more. With over 300 sunny days, outdoor activities are always available. Chamisa Hills County Club is home to a championship 27-hole golf course and 10 other courses are within 30 minutes of the city. In addition to the New Mexico Scorpions, residents can enjoy minor league baseball, soccer and basketball as well as the University of New Mexico Lobos sports teams.

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