The city of Socorro got its name from a group of Spanish settlers who barely survived a trip through the Jornada del Muerto desert. Fortunately, they met with the aid of Piro Indians, who refreshed them after their travels. Socorro means "help" or "aid" in Spanish.
Sunny and sandy, much of New Mexico is a dry desert, but Socorro boasts lush mountain ranges, challenging golf courses, and the rushing Rio Grande River
The city of Socorro got its name from a group of Spanish settlers who barely survived a trip through the Jornada del Muerto desert. Fortunately, they met with the aid of Piro Indians, who refreshed them after their travels. Socorro means "help" or "aid" in Spanish.
Sunny and sandy, much of New Mexico is a dry desert, but Socorro boasts lush mountain ranges, challenging golf courses, and the rushing Rio Grande River. Locals aren't just crunchy outdoorsy hippies, though. There are also artists here. Gallery shows and support for cultural institutions is strong, so people from all walks and stripes have something to enjoy. If national parks, art shows, and an astronomy observatory aren't your cup of tea, then there's always the chance you may meet little green men here and go off to explore other worlds; Socorro is the site of a rumored close encounter.
If you think all you need to get a good start in Socorro is a pair of cargo shorts and a handmade necklace, you're mistaken. While you'll enjoy a low cost of living, sunny weather and stable housing market, it can be a little bit rougher for renters here. Spend a couple months exploring places for rent in Socorro to find the perfect match. You can get a lot for your rent, since upgraded amenities are common in many one bedroom and studio apartments for rent. Rental houses are also a good option for many. One more thing: bring a car. Biking is popular, but for a 9-to-5 job and regular errands you can expect to do as the locals do and drive there.
Socorro isn't specifically divided up into neighborhoods, but some areas have different benefits and drawbacks. Here is a rough sketch of the town.
East: Keep tabs on friends and foes, hit all the hot spots, and take a dip in the Rio Grande from the east side. You can find more rental apartments here, and more of everything else too. But it's still a little more tucked away than the city center.
West: If you prefer things a little quieter than the tumult and cacophony of a 9,000 pop. city, then head to the western edge of Socorro and bask in the big lots and lack of neighbors. Here you'll find more homes and duplexes for rent. The howling coyotes will keep you company.
Central: As densely packed as the town can get, you can walk to many popular eateries and amenities from central Socorro. You will have your pick of both rental properties and commercial diversions, all while remaining close to nature.
Socorro is beautiful, but it's definitely a bit off the beaten path. There are only about 9,000 residents in this sleepy, artistic town, so you're probably going to see a lot of the same faces over and over. That's a positive thing, as most folks like being chatty with neighbors and tend to support one another.
Socorro is all about embracing the best of the west, which includes stoking the internal artist and adventurer. Make your way to New Mexico, and plan for both physical and psychological discoveries. You should also start planning your down time around outdoor excursions, from hiking and biking to swinging golf clubs. While everyone enjoys a board game night, most everyone here is fairly active. Oh, and don't worry too much about nights out. You can still enjoy dining out and drinking in Socorro, which boasts a brewery, both chain and indie eateries, and some cinemas. Definitely save room for a burrito or two, since the Mexican food here is outstanding. Old Town Bistro, Armijo's Mexican Restaurant, and Socorro Springs Brewing Company are just a few of your options here -- be sure to try them all!
