Albuquerque is a high-desert city with elevations ranging from 4,900 to nearly 6,500 feet above sea level. The climate consists of low humidity and abundant sunshine. With our mile high altitude and low humidity, summertime is pleasant even with our 90 degree weather. Evenings cool off to the perfection of comfort and often summer afternoon rains begin the cooldown earlier than sundown.
Winters are primarily mild with occasional snow.
Temperatures average in the 50's but often rise into the 60's for weeks at a time. The Sandia Mountains to the east of the city protect the area from many of the storms that often swirl around it. Many residents of the city have cheerfully given up the lawns they were use to elsewhere to opt for southwestern landscapes featuring colored rocks, drought-resistant plants and less maintainence. The Albuquerque Public School district is the 27th largest in the nation and covers a geographic area of 1,243 square miles. The visual and performing arts are part of the Albuquerque lifestyle and the city has a host of museums.