$269,469Average Value$255Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
Railroad history and culture in Albuquerque's South Valley
By the Rio Grande River in the South Valley, Barelas is one of Albuquerque's older neighborhoods. At one time a 17th-century Spanish colony, during the 1880s Barelas grew around the railroad industry, as people of many different backgrounds arrived to work in the rail yard. "We have a melting pot here," says Leba Freed, president of The Wheels Museum. "It's an old, interesting neighborhood. It's really gaining popularity and success." Barelas has received increased attention in recent years. Though newcomers are moving to Barelas, it's still home to many multigenerational families. Many events in Barelas highlight its rich culture.
Ongoing Investment in Barelas improves conditions
Though Barelas has experienced economic challenges and its CAP Index Crime Score is double the national average, efforts have been underway in recent years to improve the area's economic viability and living conditions. In 2022, the state announced a $2.2 million investment in Barelas, with much of that going toward infrastructure. Improved roads, lighting and signage are among the upgrades. Various community organizations work to enhance life in Barelas.
Transportation options like ABQ RIDE buses, a nearby station
Though many people walk, fare-free ABQ RIDE buses run for the community, with stops mainly along Fourth Street Southwest and Eighth Street Southwest. State route 47 and Interstate 25 run to the east, and Interstate 40 is north of Downtown. From central Barelas, it's about a mile to Downtown's Alvarado Transportation Center. Commuters may take Rio Metro's New Mexico Rail Runner Express line from there. There's also Amtrak service. Albuquerque International Sunport, the region's main airport, is about 5 miles from Barelas.
Locally owned in the Barelas-South Fourth Street Historic District
The Barelas-South Fourth Street Historic District, the neighborhood's primary commercial area and part of the historic Route 66 is on the National Register of Historic Places. "Barelas is the heart of Albuquerque's culture — rich in history, art, and community," says Gina Riccobono, owner of Flyby Provisions gift shop, located nearby in the downtown area. "It's a neighborhood where tradition thrives alongside creativity, and every corner tells a story." Among the long-standing locally owned businesses is El Modelo Mexican Foods, which has been open since 1929. La Mexicana Tortilla Co., Albuquerque's first tortilla company, opened in 1932 and is also a restaurant. Another mainstay, Barelas Coffee House, has been around since 1978 and specializes in New Mexican comfort food. Some small markets are close to the neighborhood, and there's a Smith's grocery store about 3 miles to the east. Coronado Center, New Mexico's largest mall, is about 7 miles northeast of central Barelas.
The National Hispanic Cultural Center and The Yards
The National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) provides educational and creative programming and has a research library. Among the center's events is the multiday Festival Flamenco Albuquerque in June, the biggest flamenco festival outside of Spain. In April, the Cesar Chavez Fiesta includes a march that starts at the center. The NHCC is also home to La Fonda del Bosque, a Latin fusion restaurant. The center's Roy E. Disney Center for Performing Arts includes the Albuquerque Journal Theater, which has one of the state's largest indoor stages. The Albuquerque Rail Yards, also known as The Yards, is a complex of early 20th-century railroad industry buildings. Ongoing redevelopment has created new community spaces at The Yards, and more projects are anticipated. "There's been so much renovation. Lots and lots of good things are happening," Freed says. At the Yards, the Wheels Museum, visited by roughly 100,000 people each year, has educational exhibits related to transportation history. Museum events include lectures, dance parties, car club swap meets and musical and theatrical performances. The Rail Yards Market is held on Sundays from May to October. In addition, there's a Valentine's Day market and a holiday market in December that more than 30,000 people attend.
Barelas Park upgrades, Las Posadas and the ABQ BioPark
The city's 2023 renovation of Barelas Park added a new multiuse court, playground equipment and a promenade. Lighting was upgraded, 117 new trees were planted, and ADA accessibility was improved. Future renovation phases call for pickleball courts, horseshoe pits and outdoor exercise equipment. By the park, the Barelas Senior Center and the Barelas Community Center offer a variety of activities, such as fitness and sports programs. In December, the community center hosts Las Posadas de Barelas, a nativity-themed procession planned with the Barelas Neighborhood Association and Sacred Heart Catholic Church. CASA Barelas, a non-profit community hub, is one of the organizations promoting October's Las Fiestas de Barelas, which features music and dance. The ABQ BioPark Zoo is part of an expansive complex that includes an aquarium, a botanic garden and Tingley Beach. Hiking trails are available within the Bosque, a cottonwood forest along the Rio Grande.
Vintage bungalows, ranch-style homes and townhouses in Barelas
There are a variety of home options in Barelas. "Don't be surprised to find homes that are 100-plus years old," says Leigh-Jo Anzures, qualifying broker with Syan Real Estate. Many of the homes are early 20th-century bungalows and cottages. There are also some ranch-style and newer single-family homes and townhouses. "Prices are in the high $200,000s and go up depending on the size," Anzures says. On the high-end, homes are typically under $500,000. Some properties include a casita, which could be called a guest house or ADU.
Gonzales Elementary, Washington Middle and Albuquerque High
Dolores Gonzales Elementary School earns a C-plus grade from Niche. Washington Middle School receives a C, and Albuquerque High School has an A-minus. Albuquerque Public Schools' district magnet schools offer application-based enrollment.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Barelas neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Barelas
US
Homicide
7
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
8
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
8
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
8
4
Larceny
7
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Barelas Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Barelas, Albuquerque sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Barelas, Albuquerque over the last 12 months is $292,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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This warm and inviting property offers just the right blend of comfort and character, making it a great option for anyone seeking a peaceful, easygoing living space.Enjoy the convenience of on-site parking and a spacious yard, it offers a comfortable layout and plenty of natural light.Located in a convenient area, Safe & Secure Location in a quiet neighborhood with a strong sense of
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
