Sandoval County, situated in the U.S. state of New Mexico, spans an expanse of 3,716 square miles and is home to approximately 153,501 residents as of 2022. Bernalillo serves as the county seat, while Rio Rancho claims the title of the largest city.
This county is an integral part of the Albuquerque metropolitan area, boasting a rich blend of cultural and natural heritage. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that not all regions within the county enjoy the same level of safety and prosperity.
Based on crime data and other pertinent factors, the following are the five worst neighborhoods in Sandoval County, New Mexico:
Jemez Springs
Jemez Springs, situated in the picturesque Jemez Valley, had a population of 250 as of 2020. The village is renowned for its natural thermal springs and breathtaking scenery, but unfortunately, it also grapples with a notable incidence of crime.
According to data from CrimeGrade.org, Jemez Springs received an F grade in overall crime, encompassing both property and violent offenses. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at 113.9, significantly surpassing the county average of 61.3 and the state average of 45.9.
Moreover, the village contends with a poverty rate of 19.2% and a median household income of $36,250, both of which fall below the averages for the county and the state.
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San Ysidro
San Ysidro, situated in the northwest corner of the county, had a population of 194 as of 2020. It is located near the Zia Pueblo and the Jemez River. However, the village faces challenges such as high crime rates and low income levels.
According to CrimeGrade.org, San Ysidro received an F grade for overall crime, property crime, and violent crime. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at 502.5, making it the highest in the county and among the highest in the state.
The village also grapples with a poverty rate of 28.9% and a median household income of $29,375, both of which fall below the county and state averages.
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Cuba
Cuba, located in the northern part of the county, had a population of 731 as of 2020. It sits along the Continental Divide Trail and the Cuba Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest, but grapples with high levels of poverty and low educational attainment.
As per CrimeGrade.org, Cuba received a D grade for overall, property, and violent crimes. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at 82.6, surpassing both the county average of 61.3 and the state average of 45.9.
The village also faces economic challenges, with a poverty rate of 32% and a median household income of $31,250, both falling below the county and state averages.
Moreover, only 66.7% of adults aged 25 years and older have a high school diploma or higher, which is lower than the county average of 91.4% and the state average of 85.6%.
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Bernalillo
Bernalillo, situated in the central area of the county, functions as the county’s administrative center. As of 2020, it had a population of 6,742. The town, positioned along the Rio Grande, boasts a storied heritage dating back to Spanish colonization. However, it grapples with elevated crime levels and lower income levels.
As per data from CrimeGrade.org, Bernalillo received an F grade for overall crime, encompassing both property and violent offenses. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at 221, surpassing both the county average of 61.3 and the state average of 45.9.
Furthermore, the town bears an 18% poverty rate and a median household income of $40,833, both of which fall below the county and state norms.
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Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho, located in the southern part of the county, holds the distinction of being the largest city within its borders and the third-largest in the state, boasting a population of 52,052 as of 2020.
As per data from CrimeGrade.org, Rio Rancho garners an F grade across the board for overall crime, property crime, and violent crime. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at 190.2, surpassing both the county’s average of 61.3 and the state’s average of 45.9.
The city also contends with a poverty rate of 8.2% and a median household income of $63,750. These figures fall below county averages but surpass state averages.
However, a mere 31% of adults aged 25 and above hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, trailing behind the county average of 34.7% and the state average of 27.1%.
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Final Words
Here are the five worst neighborhoods in Sandoval County, New Mexico, determined by crime rates and additional factors. Nevertheless, these areas also possess some commendable features and room for enhancement.
For instance, Jemez Springs and San Ysidro showcase splendid natural scenery and a rich cultural mix. Cuba and Bernalillo boast historical importance and a strong sense of community. Rio Rancho is notable for its economic progress and expanding population.
Hence, it’s important to assess these neighborhoods not only in light of their drawbacks but also considering their positive attributes.
