Before Espa̱ola became an important part of the American southwest railroad network, this historical town was originally called La Vega de los Vigiles, meaning "vigil's meadow."
The Espa̱ola was settled in 1598 before it was later incorporated into American territory
Before Espa̱ola became an important part of the American southwest railroad network, this historical town was originally called La Vega de los Vigiles, meaning "vigil's meadow."
The Espa̱ola was settled in 1598 before it was later incorporated into American territory. As U.S. settlers pushed west, Espa̱ola served as an important frontier rail stop for commercial goods and passengers in New Mexico. Although the railway is gone, the charm of the American southwest is still present in this unique town in both its architecture and lifestyle. Residents also enjoy a quick connection to dynamic cities such as Santa Fe along with access to scenic outdoor areas like Deception Peak and the Puye Cliff Drawings. However, before you search for apartments in Espa̱ola, you should know a few things before you pack your bags.
Finding The Right Fit
There are plenty of housing options available to you in Espa̱ola, whether you're looking for a large five-bedroom custom built adobe-style house or condo rentals near the main part of town, there's something for nearly everyone. You should also be aware that no matter where you live, Espa̱ola can get pretty hot in the summer, but that's nothing an ice-cold beer or frozen lemonade can't fix.
Best Moving Options
Moving to Espa̱ola shouldn't be a problem anytime of year. Although the roads can sometimes get a bit busy, you can expect very little actual traffic congestion. Renting a moving truck and making the move yourself is probably the most reasonable option; but if you're moving a lot of belongings, you may want to consider a professional moving company to help your move go smoothly as possible.
Renting The Perfect Place
Rental properties are low to moderately priced in Espa̱ola, allowing renters a lot of flexibility. There are a number of reasonably priced condos and duplexes located near the middle of town that leave you minutes away from everything you need. One can expect to pay more for some of the premier apartments outside of the center that come with amenities such as fireplaces and pools. In some ways, Espa̱ola is a renter's market, with certain areas experiencing higher vacancies than average. So don't be afraid to shop around.
Job Opportunities
While jobs are definitely available in Espa̱ola, looking in Santa Fe or Albuquerque could increase your odds of landing the job you really want. Espa̱ola is approximately 20 miles from Santa Fe and 70 miles from Albuquerque, meaning access to plenty of jobs in those areas. In both cities, jobs are available for education, transportation, secretarial work, and in medical fields. The Los Alamos Laboratory, not far from Espa̱ola, is the biggest employer in the area.
Know Your Costs
The cost of living in Espa̱ola is reasonable, but costs have been rising. Often, apartments will include trash disposal and water, but renters are responsible for gas and electric. Speak with your landlord or broker before you move to know exactly what utilities are included in your rental fee.
What Landlord Are Looking For
Be sure to have a number of documents available before you begin looking for a home in Espa̱ola. Landlords will expect proof of income, references from previous landlords, and will likely perform a credit check. Also expect to pay an initial security deposit and your first month of rent upfront. Sometimes landlords will also ask you for references from employers, so it helps to have a former or current employer contact available.
While Espa̱ola is not large, with approximately 10,224 people calling the town home (2010 U.S. Census data), there are still plenty of living options in Espa̱ola. You can choose between large single-family houses or duplexes in secluded desert settings. There are also studio apartments closer to museums and quality dining establishments serving everything from Mexican to sushi. As a result, you should be able to find something that fits your needs.
City Center / Northern New Mexico College: This is a small area, with a limited number of apartments ranging from one- to three-bedrooms. However, considering its location in the direct center of Espa̱ola, you will have access to great cultural opportunities, such as the Bond House Museum, which provides a history of how Espa̱ola went from a frontier town to a vibrant commercial center of the West. The local college also provides a collegiate atmosphere that only adds to the vibrancy of Espa̱ola.
Santa Clara Pueblo: Expect to pay slightly more in this neighborhood than others in Espa̱ola. However, with plenty of nice homes to choose from and close proximity to the main part of town, it's well worth it.
Riverside: Located next to the famous Rio Grande River, this area features plenty of activities available to residences, including the Black Mesa Golf Club. Here you can find a duplex for rent, medium-sized homes, and even a mix of mobile homes.
Fairview: This area has mostly small to medium-sized homes at reasonable prices. The area also provides plenty of peace and quiet with statistics indicating it is less crowded than 95 percent of other places in the U.S. While you might sometimes have to put up with a howling coyote or two, it sure beats a lot of other neighbors out there.
For most people who live in Espa̱ola, owning a car is usually a must. While there is limited transportation, a Park and Ride bus network was recently added, which should improve Espa̱ola's transportation options. However, that still does not remove the need for a car, especially if you're working outside the town.
While Espa̱ola's weather is great for outdoor activity, that's not all. The American Lung Association ranked Espa̱ola's air quality as the best in the country. If you're not much of a winter person, Espa̱ola offers an excellent climate and quality air all year-round.
In Espa̱ola, there is plenty to do. You can often find locals enjoying some Mexican food at Angelina's Restaurant or catching a game and a cold brew at Dylan's Sports Bar. Besides the Bound House, there is also the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, where you can learn about the Native Americans who farmed in the area for many centuries. The Coronado State Monument is also nearby, featuring some of the best Native American murals in all of North America. In the end, Espa̱ola provides an excellent mix of living and leisure, so don't be afraid to call this magical place home regardless of where you're from.
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Before Espa̱ola became an important part of the American southwest railroad network, this historical town was originally called La Vega de los Vigiles, meaning "vigil's meadow."
The Espa̱ola was settled in 1598 before it was later incorporated into American territory
View Española City Guide