Best Neighborhoods To Live and Work in Santa Fe (2025)

Where adobe charm meets modern convenience—and remote work feels like a retreat.

Santa Fe, New Mexico, isn’t just a city—it’s a mood. With its sun-drenched adobe architecture, high desert landscapes, and thriving arts scene, it’s no wonder people from all walks of life are drawn to its unique rhythm. But Santa Fe isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to live, work, and thrive.

In 2025, remote work is more common than ever, and Santa Fe has emerged as a top destination for professionals seeking balance, beauty, and broadband. Whether you’re a creative, a techie, a retiree, or a family looking for space and serenity, Santa Fe’s neighborhoods offer a rich tapestry of options. This guide explores the best places to live and work in Santa Fe—each with its own vibe, advantages, and reasons to fall in love.

Best Neighborhoods to Live and Work in Santa Fe (2025 Edition)

1. Downtown Santa Fe – Culture, Convenience, and Connectivity

Vibe: Historic, walkable, and vibrant
Best for: Young professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs

Downtown Santa Fe is the city’s beating heart. With its cobblestone streets, centuries-old adobe buildings, and proximity to world-class galleries, museums, and restaurants, it’s a dream for those who want to live where the action is.

Remote workers will appreciate the abundance of coffee shops with strong Wi-Fi, coworking spaces like Co-Fe and Desks & More, and the ability to walk to nearly everything. The Plaza is a hub for events, and the nearby Railyard District adds a modern twist with art installations, farmers markets, and tech-friendly cafes.

Pros:

  • Walkability and public transit
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Networking opportunities

Cons:

  • Higher cost of living
  • Limited parking

2. South Capitol – Historic Charm with a Residential Feel

Vibe: Elegant, quiet, and community-oriented
Best for: Families, professionals, history lovers

Just south of downtown lies South Capitol, a neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to government buildings and schools. It’s ideal for those who want a peaceful environment without sacrificing access to amenities.

The architecture here is classic Santa Fe—adobe homes with courtyards, wooden vigas, and colorful doors. It’s a favorite among families and professionals who appreciate a slower pace and a strong sense of community.

Pros:

  • Beautiful homes with character
  • Close to parks and schools
  • Easy access to downtown

Cons:

  • Competitive real estate market
  • Limited rental options

3. Las Campanas – Luxury Living in the High Desert

Vibe: Upscale, serene, and scenic
Best for: Retirees, executives, remote professionals

Las Campanas is Santa Fe’s premier gated community, offering resort-style amenities like golf courses, an equestrian center, and a world-class spa. It’s located northwest of the city and provides stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

For remote workers, Las Campanas offers peace, privacy, and high-speed internet—plus the kind of tranquility that turns workdays into wellness retreats. Homes here are spacious and beautifully designed, often with private courtyards and custom finishes.

Pros:

  • Luxury amenities
  • Security and privacy
  • Breathtaking views

Cons:

  • High cost of living
  • Car-dependent

4. La Tierra Nueva – Space, Solitude, and Stargazing

Vibe: Rustic, remote, and nature-focused
Best for: Artists, writers, off-grid enthusiasts

La Tierra Nueva is a rural neighborhood northwest of Santa Fe, known for its large lots, horse properties, and unobstructed views of the desert sky. It’s perfect for those who want to live close to nature while still being within reach of the city.

Remote workers who value solitude and inspiration will thrive here. The quiet environment is ideal for deep focus, and the natural beauty is a constant source of creative fuel.

Pros:

  • Spacious properties
  • Peaceful and private
  • Ideal for outdoor hobbies

Cons:

  • Limited public services
  • Longer commute to city center

5. Eldorado at Santa Fe – Suburban Comfort with Pueblo Style

Vibe: Family-friendly, artistic, and laid-back
Best for: Families, retirees, remote workers

Located about 15 minutes southeast of downtown, Eldorado is a planned community with a strong sense of identity. Homes here feature traditional Pueblo-style architecture, and the neighborhood includes nature preserves, hiking trails, and a community center.

Eldorado is popular among remote workers for its affordability, reliable internet, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s also home to a vibrant arts scene, with local galleries and events that bring neighbors together.

Pros:

  • Affordable housing
  • Great schools and parks
  • Strong community vibe

Cons:

  • Less nightlife
  • Limited public transit

6. Midtown Santa Fe – Live-Work-Play Central

Vibe: Urban, energetic, and evolving
Best for: Freelancers, renters, young professionals

Midtown is Santa Fe’s up-and-coming district, with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. It’s home to Santa Fe University of Art and Design (now a creative campus), and it’s attracting new businesses, startups, and artists.

For remote workers, Midtown offers affordable rentals, coworking spaces, and easy access to restaurants, gyms, and entertainment. It’s a great place to live if you want to be part of Santa Fe’s next chapter.

Pros:

  • Affordable and diverse housing
  • Central location
  • Growing job market

Cons:

  • Still developing
  • Mixed architectural styles

7. Canyon Road – Art Lover’s Paradise

Vibe: Bohemian, creative, and globally inspired
Best for: Artists, collectors, cultural enthusiasts

Canyon Road is world-famous for its galleries, studios, and artistic energy. Living here means being surrounded by creativity, with adobe homes tucked between sculpture gardens and boutique galleries.

Remote workers in the arts, design, or writing fields will find endless inspiration here. The neighborhood is walkable, photogenic, and deeply connected to Santa Fe’s cultural roots.

Pros:

  • Artistic atmosphere
  • Proximity to galleries and museums
  • Unique architecture

Cons:

  • Expensive real estate
  • Tourist traffic

8. Don Gaspar Historic District – Timeless and Central

Vibe: Elegant, central, and full of charm
Best for: Professionals, families, history buffs

Located just south of the Plaza, Don Gaspar is one of Santa Fe’s most beloved historic districts. The homes here are beautifully preserved, with mature trees, quiet streets, and a strong sense of place.

It’s ideal for remote workers who want to be close to downtown but prefer a residential setting. The neighborhood is walkable, safe, and filled with character.

Pros:

  • Historic charm
  • Central location
  • Strong community

Cons:

  • Limited inventory
  • Higher property prices

9. Sierra del Norte – Modern Estates with Mountain Views

Vibe: Elevated, scenic, and serene
Best for: Upscale buyers, hikers, remote professionals

Sierra del Norte is a newer development nestled in the hills above Santa Fe. It offers modern homes with large windows, open floor plans, and panoramic views of the mountains.

For remote workers, it’s a dream—quiet, beautiful, and equipped with modern infrastructure. It’s also close to hiking trails and outdoor recreation, making it easy to balance work and wellness.

Pros:

  • New construction
  • Stunning views
  • Peaceful environment

Cons:

  • Higher price point
  • Car-dependent

10. Los Cerros Colorados – Upscale and Outdoorsy

Vibe: Refined, adventurous, and peaceful
Best for: Nature lovers, active professionals, families

Located near the Santa Fe National Forest, Los Cerros Colorados offers luxury homes with direct access to trails, wildlife, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to live in style while staying connected to the outdoors.

Remote workers will appreciate the quiet, the views, and the ability to take a midday hike or sunset walk. It’s a neighborhood that blends elegance with adventure.

Pros:

  • Proximity to nature
  • High-end homes
  • Quiet and private

Cons:

  • Limited commercial amenities
  • Higher cost of living

Choosing Your Santa Fe Neighborhood: What Matters Most?

When deciding where to live and work in Santa Fe, consider these key factors:

  • Internet Reliability: Most neighborhoods offer fiber or high-speed options, but rural areas may require satellite or mobile solutions.
  • Commute & Access: If you plan to attend events, meetings, or school, proximity to downtown matters.
  • Lifestyle Fit: Are you looking for peace and quiet, or cultural stimulation? Santa Fe offers both—but not always in the same place.
  • Budget: Prices vary widely. Las Campanas and Canyon Road are premium, while Midtown and Eldorado offer more affordable options.
  • Community: Some areas are tight-knit and social; others are private and remote. Choose based on your preferred level of interaction.

Final Thoughts: Why Santa Fe Is the Ultimate Live-Work Destination

Santa Fe isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. In 2025, as remote work continues to redefine how and where we build our lives, Santa Fe stands out as a city that offers both inspiration and infrastructure. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic pulse of Canyon Road, the luxury of Las Campanas, or the family-friendly vibe of Eldorado, there’s a neighborhood here that fits your rhythm.

What makes Santa Fe truly special is its balance: the ability to work from a high-speed connection in the morning and hike a mountain trail by afternoon. It’s a city where culture, nature, and community aren’t competing—they’re collaborating.

So whether you’re relocating, investing, or simply dreaming, Santa Fe’s neighborhoods offer more than just homes—they offer a lifestyle. One that’s rich, rooted, and ready for whatever comes next.