The vast majority of Rio Rancho's territory was initially part of Alameda Grant, a town established in 1710 by Spanish colonial settlers. The United States purchased it in 1848 after defeating Mexico in the Mexican-American War. By the early twentieth century, much of the land grant had been divided and sold to land investment companies. However, its proximity to Albuquerque made it a prime area for suburban development following World War II. Amrep Corporation purchased 55,000 acres in 1961 and developed the "Rio Rancho Estates" housing development. These developments drew several migrants to the area, and the city's population increased more than tenfold between 1970 and 1980. Rio Rancho was incorporated as a city in 1981. The establishment of a large Intel Corporation plant in 1981 created many jobs and had a positive economic impact on the town. The city has taken steps to become more self-sufficient than its neighboring city, Albuquerque, since the 1990s. These efforts have paid off, as the city now stands on its own and frequently tops the list of Best Places to Live in New Mexico, as well as several other polls comparing cities. ​​This track record, among other reasons, justifies why Rio Rancho is a great place to purchase land.

Rio Rancho affords you opportunities to learn about the history and natural beauty of New Mexico. Rio Rancho takes family fun to a whole new level, from fantastic all-inclusive parks to nature trails and museums. If you plan to buy land in this exciting city, make time to enjoy some of the things it offers so that you can experience a little bit of everything great here. Some of which include:

A Park Above
This park offers a day full of activities with no restrictions. Named the "Best City Park" by Albuquerque The Magazine, the park attracts hundreds of visitors each year with fun activities for all ages. It is uniquely designed for people of all ages and abilities.

Activities here include playing musical instruments, a basketball court, a water splash area, a labyrinth, special equipment, and wheelchair swings. It also has unique features such as hills, tunnels, and slides.

Coronado Historic Site
Find out how Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and his troops entered the Rio Grande Valley. When Coronado and his men searched for the legendary Seven Cities of Gold, they stayed close to these Native Americans, known as the Kuaua Pueblo. Though he never found the treasure, he "discovered" a dozen native farming villages.

The Coronado Historic Site offers ramada-covered picnic tables, spectacular views of the Rio Grande and the Sandia Mountains, and the history and beauty of Northern New Mexico.

Pure Radiance Skin
The Pure Radiance Skin Care Spa is a great place to unwind during your Rio Rancho vacation. Pure Radiance Skin provides everything from beauty treatments to intense massage therapy, so you can fully enjoy the relaxation you deserve. You get to decide how much time you want to spend unwinding at the spa and what kind of treatment you want, with therapies ranging from 20 minutes to two hours.

Pure Radiance Skin Care Spa will have you feeling like a new person in no time, whether you want a face massage, a full-body massage, or to inquire about permanent makeup.

J&R Vintage Autos
J&R Vintage Autos is a must-see for anyone who enjoys cars, vintage memorabilia, or simply museums. Gab and Evonna's collection, which began as a place to store their restored vintage cars, has grown to include around 70 vehicles on display. From a 1912 Buick to a 1969 Mercury Cougar, there's bound to be a favorite among the vast collection. Along with the display cars, there is auto-related memorabilia and some vehicles for sale.

Paseo del Bosque Trail
The Paseo del Bosque Trail, ideal for hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, and other activities, allows you to explore New Mexico at your own pace. The best part is that you are welcome to bring your dog.

While on this adventure, you can also learn more about the trail's namesake, the Bosque underbrush that lines Rio Rancho's wilderness. Look out for native birds and mammals while enjoying the cool breeze from the Rio Rancho.