Eldorado at Santa Fe (commonly known as Eldorado) is a census-designated place that offers residents access to the desert and the opportunity to enjoy sun-drenched New Mexico. Eldorado is considered part of the Santa Fe metropolitan area and offers residents the best of what Santa Fe has to offer. Eldorado is a nice place to live for families and known for its family-friendly atmosphere, great amenities, and close knit community.
The entirety of this CDP is within a Spanish land grant which goes back to 1785. Then, in 1883, the land was sold for US $2,000. There were about 12,068 acres. It wasn’t until 1969 that houses began being built in the area, and at first, development was slow. In 1983, the pace of development picked up. Today, living in Eldorado offers a taste of desert life that isn’t too far from a larger city.
Where Is Eldorado, NM?
Eldorado is a suburb of Santa Fe in Santa Fe County, New Mexico. It’s about 15 miles from Eldorado to Santa Fe or 21 minutes by car. If you work in Santa Fe but would prefer to live outside of the city with more space, living in Eldorado offers a great vibe and quick commute.
The name “Eldorado” means “gilded one.” In the 16th century, Spaniards living in what is now Mexico heard discussions of “seven cities of gold” across the desert in the area that is now New Mexico. The reputation stuck.
Eldorado borders unincorporated areas in Santa Fe County to the north, south, east, and west.
Eldorado Population & Demographics
El Dorado has a population of 6,005, which is a decrease from 6,130 at the time of the 2010 census. The population density of Eldorado is 280.3 per square mile.
Most Eldorado residents are between the ages of 18 and 65. However, there’s a large population of people 65 and older here too, as this group makes up 65% of the CDP. People under 18 constitute 10.7% and under 5 are 1.3%. Eldorado has a nearly equal gender distribution. There are slightly more females in Eldorado than males (50.6%).
You may be familiar with a famous Eldorado resident named Hampton Sides, a best-selling writer and journalist.
The median household income in Eldorado in 2020 was $$77,576. This is higher than the national median household income the same year which was $67,521. Therefore, the population in Eldorado is fairly affluent.
Most of Eldorado’s population is Hispanic (43.6%), white only (30.3%), Black or African American (1.99%), Native Hawaiian (1.11%).
The crime rate in Eldorado at Santa Fe is significantly lower than both the national and state average. The crime rate per 100k residents is 1177. Overall crime is 50% below the national average, property crime is 53% lower, and violent crime is 35% lower. Therefore, Eldorado is an extremely safe place to live.
Eldorado is served by the Santa Fe Police Department because this census-designated place is too small for its own.
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Cost of Living in Eldorado
The average cost of living in the US is 100. Eldorado has a cost of living of 120 which is higher than the US average and far higher than the New Mexico state cost of living index of 88.4.
You’d have to make $81,217 to live comfortably in Eldorado as a family of four. Expect to spend $897 on healthcare, $1218 on transportation, $1305 on childcare, $862 on food, and $1071 per month on housing costs.
The median home price in Eldorado is $668,750. The average monthly rent in Eldorado is $1,598 according to RentCafe.
Eldorado Typical Monthly Living Expenses
- Eldorado monthly cost of utilities: $137
- Meal at inexpensive restaurant: $20
- Milk per gallon: $3.84
- Loaf of bread: $3.57
- Apples per pound: $2.16
- Gasoline: $4.46
- Fitness club per month: $68.75
Source: Numbeo
Eldorado Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Eldorado
Because Eldorado itself is a small community, it doesn’t have clearly defined neighborhoods. However, whichever part of Eldorado you select, you will find that it provides you a sense of community and plenty of things to do.
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Eldorado Weather & Climate
Eldorado is in the southwestern United States in the state of New Mexico. It may surprise you, but it does snow in Eldorado! On average, Eldorado gets 28 inches of snow per year, which is exactly the US average. In Eldorado, expect summers that are extremely warm, and winters that are extremely cold, snowy, and brief. It is mostly clear the entire year. It’s typically sunny 204 days per year and the CDP gets 14 inches of rain annually, which is significantly less than the US average.
Most of the year, the temperature varies between 21 degrees and 85. It’s very rare to experience temperatures below 10 degrees or above 92 in Eldorado. Early June to early September is widely considered to have the most enjoyable weather if you’d like to participate in warm-weather activities.
Things to Do in Eldorado
After moving to Eldorado, you will discover plenty to do — especially if you are a person who enjoys spending time outside in nature. If grabbing food is also on your to do list, you will be able to find it at the Eldorado Super Market. Here are some of the best Eldorado attractions and activities.
Santa Fe Rail-Trail
Ask any local and they’ll tell you the Santa Fe Rail Trail is one of the best activities in Eldorado. It’s a perfect place to bring your children or pets, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a beautiful sunset. You’ll also have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of New Mexico’s incredible wildlife.
Santa Fe Rail-Trail, New Mexico, USA
Galisteo Basin Preserve
Because Santa Fe is surrounded by gorgeous desert, many of the activities you will have the opportunity to enjoy in the area are outdoors. Galisteo Basin Preserve is another stunning outdoor place you can visit and enjoy. This Preserve is an excellent place to go on a hike, retreat into mother nature, and spend some time unbothered by the outside world.
Astral Valley Rd, Lamy, NM 87540 505-982-0071
Rancheros De Santa Fe Campground
If you’re looking to experience Eldorado through the eyes of a camper, you can consider visiting the Rancheros De Santa Fe Campground. This amenity-rich experience is one that your kids will never forget.
736 Old Las Vegas Hwy, Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-466-3482
Eldorado Restaurants
One of the best things about Eldorado is the food. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for Italian food, are craving Mexican cuisine, or would prefer some New American classics. Here are some of the best restaurants in Eldorado Santa Fe.
- Upper Crust Pizza El Dorado: If you love a good slice of pizza, you won’t have to go far to find one. Upper Crust Pizza in Eldorado is known for having some of the best slices in town. 5 Colina Dr, Santa Fe, NM 87508 505-471-1111
- Le Pommier Bistro: If you’re looking for a chic night out, Le Pommier Bistro is the place for you to go. There is an extensive menu so you are sure to find something that everyone in your party will enjoy. There is also a live accordion player on Fridays! 7 Caliente Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87508 505-466-3235
- Cafe Fina: You can get reliably delicious New American favorites from Cafe Fina. Whether you’re in the mood for fish, meat, or something else, you’ll find a plate that will cure your appetite here. 624 Old Las Vegas Hwy, Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-466-3886
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Jobs in Eldorado Santa Fe
Because Eldorado is a suburb of Santa Fe, you may choose to commute into this larger city as there are a plethora of economic opportunities. Many residents find the commute is a balanced trade-off for the small-town community you’ll find in Eldorado.
However, it is possible to find a role that’s not based in the city of Santa Fe if you would prefer not to commute. Here is a job board to use if you’re sourcing a new role in Eldorado. The most popular employers in the area include Santa Fe Schools, the state of New Mexico, and the national government.
The average hourly wage in Eldorado is $24.52.
Schools in Eldorado Santa Fe
If you’re sending children to school in Eldorado, it’s helpful to have an understanding of what their educational opportunities look like. Eldorado is serviced by the Santa Fe School District. Over 13,000 students attend this district. The district has a student to teacher ratio of 17 to 1.
Eldorado at Santa Fe Statistics & Information
- Eldorado County: Santa Fe
- Area: 20.7 square miles
- Eldorado zip codes: 87508, 87540
- Area code: 618
- Elevation: 6,677′
- Time zone: MDT
- Closest airport to Eldorado: Santa Fe Airport (SAF), 9.4 miles
Map of Eldorado Santa Fe
Discover this suburb of New Mexico with its natural beauty and proximity to plenty of exciting activities.
Moving to Eldorado? We’ll Make Your Move Easier!
You’re going to love Eldorado for its scenic views, commutable distance to Santa Fe, and friendly neighbors. Are you ready to make your move to Eldorado? Contact our Eldorado movers today at 505-471-3434 for a free quote to get started.
