Neighborhoods
Kirtland Area
Urban Suburban$1,200 to $1,700/mo
Southeast Albuquerque neighborhoods directly adjacent to the base are popular with junior enlisted.
Rio Rancho
Suburban$1,300 to $1,800/mo
Fast-growing suburb northwest of Albuquerque with newer construction and good school options.
Corrales
Rural Suburban$1,600 to $2,200/mo
Charming Rio Grande village with horse properties, vineyards, and a slower pace of life.
East Mountains
Rural$1,200 to $1,700/mo
Rural communities like Tijeras and Cedar Crest east of Albuquerque at higher elevations.
Schools
Manzano High School
Grades 9-12
APS high school in southeast Albuquerque near the base with JROTC programs.
Cleveland High School
Grades 9-12
Rio Rancho Public Schools high school with strong academics and sports programs.
Painted Sky Elementary
Grades K-5
Rio Rancho elementary school well-regarded for academics and parent involvement.
Housing Intel
On-Post Housing
On-base housing is managed by Hunt Military Communities and includes family neighborhoods within the large installation footprint.
Off-Post Rental Market
Albuquerque offers a wide range of housing at prices well below national averages for a city of its size.
Commute
Most Albuquerque neighborhoods are 10 to 20 minutes from Kirtland. Rio Rancho is 20 to 30 minutes northwest. East Mountains communities are 20 to 30 minutes east.
Installation Highlights
- Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center and Research Lab create unique career opportunities
- Albuquerque metro integration provides full urban lifestyle on a military installation
- Sandia Mountains with ski and hiking access minutes from the base back gate
- Balloon Fiesta in October is a world-famous spectacle visible throughout the city
- Rich Southwestern culture with outstanding food, art, and outdoor recreation