Life in Los Chaves is life within Albuquerque. "At least you can take a small bit of comfort in knowing that/ Somewhere out there in this crazy ol' mixed-up universe of ours/ There's still a place/ Called Albuquerque, Albuquerque, Albuquerque" (Weird Al Yankovic, 'Albuquerque').
Los Chaves! Los Chaves! Los Chaves! Isn't it actually spelled Los Chavez? You may get conflicting answers from locals, but that's part of the delight in living here
Life in Los Chaves is life within Albuquerque. "At least you can take a small bit of comfort in knowing that/ Somewhere out there in this crazy ol' mixed-up universe of ours/ There's still a place/ Called Albuquerque, Albuquerque, Albuquerque" (Weird Al Yankovic, 'Albuquerque').
Los Chaves! Los Chaves! Los Chaves! Isn't it actually spelled Los Chavez? You may get conflicting answers from locals, but that's part of the delight in living here. You should take comfort in knowing there are still places like Los Chaves. Located between the Rio Grande and Interstate-25, this census-designated place in Valencia County is very much a part of ABQ. Just south of Albuquerque's center, this community is home to 5,446 residents. What Los Chaves provides is space while still being just south of one of New Mexico's major cities. You also have proximity to numerous national forests and conservation areas. So chill, turn on that Breaking Bad marathon, and let the tumbleweeds roll. Chow on some green (or red!) chile. It's going to be a good time in Los Chaves.
Living on Wheels!
If you want premier apartments, you are advised to look downtown. 33.4% of Los Chaves' housing units are mobile homes. 63.1% are detached houses. In general, places to live in Los Chaves are limited to these two types of housing, with a few exceptions. You can find other home rentals, like duplexes and apartments within small buildings.
Renting Trends
25.6% of the properties in Los Chaves are being leased. While that is lower than New Mexico's average, a good amount of available homes should eliminate any fear you have of not finding a place. You really can come at whatever time suits you best. The weather is, after all, quite pleasant. Go at your own speed, and you'll find a suitable house rental within 10 to 20 days.
What about the Bills?
If bills make you freak out and nervously chant Weird Al Yankovic songs, then you are probably going to continue that strange habit in Los Chaves. Finding a pad (and landlord) that offers all utilities paid is quite rare. However, no rules have been carved out in the desert sand. If you have the bargaining skills of Heisenberg on Breaking Bad, you may be able to get some free utilities. Many, though, may already advertise free water or free heating.
Obtaining the Keys
Before you can move all your stuff into your new pad in Los Chaves, you must pay one or two months' rent (up to the landlord or management company) and a deposit. Personal information, of course, is needed. If you have an alias, say it's because you don't want a certain UFO to find you again (that's a joke!). Also, proof of income, a credit score, and past rental info may be needed. Note the word "may".
Throughout its 10.2 square miles, Los Chaves gives off a cool vibe. However, where you choose to live can impact how close you are to certain things. If you are going to go downtown a lot, you may want to live in the north part of town. You also must consider if you want to live by the Rio Grande or the highway.
Mid Valley: Closest to Albuquerque, this car-dependent section of town features Mid Valley Airpark and proximity to Los Lunas (where several Breaking Bad scenes occurred).
Los Chaves Center: Near the Rio Grande, this neighborhood is highlighted by a few stores and Dennis Chavez Elementary School. The central part is not walkable.
South Los Chaves: In the south part of town, you get proximity to a fast-food restaurant and several major retailers. Despite being the most convenient part of town, you still need a car.
Grab a car. Unless you are superhuman and can cycle through the New Mexico heat, you need a vehicle. That's the way most folks get around. Unless you have a connection with a UFO captain, you are going to need a car.
Once you've settled into your home, it's time to explore the area. Los Chaves is a laid-back spot to play house, and you'll like it for its sweet location. After you've had some green chile steak and a beverage at the local Fat Sat's Bar and Grill, it's time to get wild. Go to Albuquerque and watch an Isotopes baseball game, visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, and walk through the Rio Grande Zoo. Head to the Sandia Mountains for first-rate vistas. If you want breathtaking views of the skies and stars, go to Carson National Forest and camp for a weekend. Los Chaves offers access to all of this. And when you get back home, Los Chaves knows it should let you relax. This is what makes living here sweet.
