Chamiza Estates in Rio Rancho is a development of homes built in the 2000s and on. And there's room for more. "Horses are allowed, and there's lots of space for your toys; you have workshops, outbuildings and there are mixed-use lots still available. It's just an enterprising area," says Dagna Altheide, an associate broker with Realty One of New Mexico and a resident of the area. "People are coming here from out of state to almost have a ranch-like feel."
Desert landscapes, Sandia Mountain views and sunsets
With plenty of space, Chamiza Estates has the airy, sand-hued character of a desert environment. The sun rises over the Sandia Mountains to the east in the morning, and there are gorgeous sunsets to the west in the evening. Rio Rancho, nicknamed "the City of Vision," began development in the 1960s and today is one of the biggest and fastest-expanding cities in New Mexico. Chamiza Estates is about 19 miles north of downtown Albuquerque.
Southwestern architecture and larger lots
Southwestern architecture in Chamiza Estates may include Pueblo-style elements like flat roofs and adobe finishes or Spanish influences like clay tile roofing, stucco exteriors and arches. Prices are in the low $400,000s to the high $500,000s. There are also some homeowners associations with monthly fees. "The homes are really starting to increase in value because we have larger lots," Altheide says. In early 2025, there were more than three times the number of open lots for sale as existing homes. The land ranges from the $20,000s for less than an acre to the $200,000s for five acres or more. "We don't have sewer systems here yet," Altheide says, explaining that homes on larger lots can have septic systems, whereas smaller lots may need above-ground systems, which are typically more expensive.The CAP Index Crime Score for Chamiza Estates is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
You will find many homes spread out around Chamiza Estates.
Dirt roads, large lots and beautiful views are some of the reasons locals love Chamiza Estates.
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Rio Rancho public schools earn high grades
The area schools are well-regarded. Enchanted Hills Elementary School earns an A-minus grade from Niche. Rancho Middle School receives an A and Cleveland High School has an A-minus. As Rio Rancho grows, more high schools are being added. Other options in the district are RioTech, which focuses on trade career paths; Rio Rancho Cyber Academy, an online school for middle and high schoolers; and Independence High, an alternative school.
Rio Rancho Middle School receives an A rating from Niche.
V Sue Cleveland High School helps prepare students for the future.
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Dirt streets, though major roads are close by
Chamiza Estates retains some rural character. "The streets are mostly dirt," says Altheide. "I like the dirt roads; I find them super charming and rustic." Not everyone agrees, however, and Altheide says some residents are hoping for paved roads in the future. There aren't sidewalks, but there's little traffic due to the absence of through streets, so the roads are walkable in that regard. Otherwise, driving is the primary mode of transportation. State Routes 448 and 528 are within a couple of miles to the east. Albuquerque International Sunport serves the region, and it is about a 30-mile trip from Chamiza Estates.
Shopping on SR-528, outdoor dining at THE BLOCK
There are shopping centers in both directions on SR-528. To the southwest, there's a Target, an Albertsons Market and locally owned restaurants like K'Lynn's Southern & Cajun Fusion and The Hopper Pub and Pizzeria, which hosts open mics and live music. To the northwest, there's another Albertsons, a Walmart Supercenter and THE BLOCK, a newer shopping center at the Plaza at Enchanted Hills. "THE BLOCK features outdoor dining and an events center and it has the library nearby," Altheide says.
The Block is a great spot for shopping and dining near Chamiza Estates.
The Plaza at Enchanted Hills is a convenient shopping center for Chamiza Estates residents.
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Parks and trails by the Rio Grande, hot-air ballooning
The Rio Grande River's western bank is within several miles of Chamiza Estates. Nearby, Trailhead Park has a playground, barbecue grills and a walking path. Rio Vista Park has similar amenities, plus a dog park, basketball courts and a skate park. People can also park close to the Riverside Drive entrance to the Rio Rancho Bosque Preserve, which has hiking trails. Open space and dunes to the west draw motocross and ATV riders. Hot-air ballooning, iconic in the region, has its place in Rio Rancho. "This is a huge hot-air ballooning enthusiast area. When we go up, we can see pigs and cows below," Altheide says. Rainbow Park, a balloon-launching site, is about 7 miles to the west.
Mayor's Sunday Funday and the Rio Rancho Event Center
The Mayor's Sunday Funday is a big event in August at Haynes Park, about 6 miles south. The event includes family friendly entertainment, food and activities. Other popular events in Rio Rancho are the Fall Festival and the Park in the Park car show. Concerts, conferences, sporting events and cultural programs are held at the Rio Rancho Event Center, previously named the Santa Ana Star Center; the 7,000-seat venue is about 5 miles from Chamiza Estates. "The Star Center is huge, it's really nice, and there's a really wonderful outdoor stage," Altheide says.
GreatSchools:
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Come see this beautiful oasis with some of the best views in town! Enjoy stunning Sandia Mountain views from the comfort of your home. This spacious 4-bedroom property offers two primary bedrooms--one perfect as an in-law suite with its own living area, full bath, and private access to the yard and hot tub. The second primary also has backyard access to a covered patio. Features include
Price reduced and ready to sell! Oversized lot surrounded by custom homes in the heart of Rio Rancho. Long frontage for many diverse design styles. Don't miss your chance at a great custom home lot!
Build your dream home on this 1.1-acre lot -- no HOA -- no PID! Zoned E-1! Enjoy stunning views of the Sandia Mountains in a peaceful desert setting. Located in Rio Rancho, one of New Mexico's fastest-growing cities and the economic hub of Sandoval County. This vibrant community offers access to endless outdoor recreation, scenic mesas, and a welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking space,
Don't miss this amazing deal! Won't last long! Beautiful 2023 Twilight Home in Rio Rancho's Mountain Hawk community! This 4-bed, 3-bath home features an open layout with 9' ceilings, a modern kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances, and a large pantry. Enjoy stunning mountain views from the huge landscaped backyard with no rear neighbors, a shed for extra storage, with a covered
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,398
Median Age
47
Population under 18
20.8%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
25.3%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$120,689
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$146,261
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
97.4%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
53.8%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
20.7%
% Population in Labor Force
65.3%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
11''
Average Winter Low Temperature
23°F
Average Summer High Temperature
93°F
Annual Snowfall
4''
Area Factors
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
1/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
