Living Off The Grid in New Mexico – What You Need To Know!
Living off the grid in New Mexico is an increasingly popular choice for those looking to lead a self-sufficient, independent lifestyle.
Off-grid living offers many advantages, such as low energy costs, reduced environmental impact and increased privacy.
However, there are certain challenges associated with it—particularly when it comes to adhering to local regulations.
Before making any decisions regarding an off-grid lifestyle in New Mexico, it is important to research the specific laws and regulations governing off-grid living in that area.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of New Mexico was estimated to be 2,095,428.
This marks an increase of 8.6% since 2010, when the population was 1,928,384.
The state’s most populous city is Albuquerque, with a population of 559,121 people.
The second largest city is Las Cruces with a population of 101,324 people in 2019.
New Mexico is a popular destination for travelers, retirees and nature lovers alike.
The state boasts stunning landscapes, steeped in centuries of history, culture, art and ancient ruins.
Its location at the southern point of the Rocky Mountains offers an array of outdoor recreational opportunities such as skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking.
The climate is sunny and dry with mild winters and hot summers.
The cost of living in New Mexico is also below the national average, which makes it appealing to those looking to save money while still enjoying all that the state has to offer.
Yes, it is legal to live off the grid in New Mexico.
The state is one of the most progressive when it comes to allowing residents to live without relying on traditional utilities and services.
Requirements for living off-grid in New Mexico include obtaining proper permits and approvals, as well as complying with state and local regulations.
Additionally, there are certain steps that must be taken to ensure you are living responsibly and safely while off-grid.
Benefits Of Living Off Grid In New Mexico
New Mexico is a great place to live off the grid and reap the benefits of living a simpler life.
Here are some of the top advantages of living off grid in New Mexico:
- Low cost of living due to not having to pay for utilities or accessories associated with a traditional home
- Easier access to fresh, organic produce from local farmers and community gardens
- More self-sufficient lifestyle with renewable energy sources such as solar power
- Lower stress levels from living away from city life and enjoying clean air, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life
- Increased privacy and security in an off grid situation
- Opportunities to learn new DIY skills such as gardening and small scale livestock farming
The challenges of living off grid in New Mexico
While going off grid in New Mexico can be rewarding, it does come with some challenges.
Here’s what you should keep in mind if you’re considering this lifestyle:
- Limited access to modern amenities such as internet, streaming services and digital entertainment
- Expensive initial setup costs such as the cost of solar panels, batteries and other renewable energy sources
- Difficulty finding off grid land that is suitable for a home, particularly in highly populated areas
- Prolonged projects such as digging wells for water or finding alternative ways to heat/cool a home
- Necessity of obtaining back up generators or alternate power sources during outages
Things To Consider Before Moving to New Mexico
Before making the move to New Mexico, there are several things to consider.
First, the climate can be quite extreme and may not be suitable for all people.
Second, New Mexico has two distinct seasons — wet and dry — which will likely affect how much or little you can do outdoors depending on the season.
Third, the landscape of New Mexico is highly variable, ranging from desert to mountainous terrain and forests.
Fourth, many of the amenities that you’re accustomed to in other parts of the US may not be available in some parts of New Mexico.
Lastly, while New Mexico has a relatively low cost of living compared to other states in the US, it is important to note that certain areas may have higher costs than others.
Average Temperature In New Mexico
The average temperature in New Mexico is generally quite warm.
During the summer months, temperatures are usually in the upper-90s and low-100s Fahrenheit (mid-30s to mid-40s Celsius).
In winter, temperatures typically hover around the low-80s Fahrenheit (high teens to low twenties Celsius).
There can be extreme temperature fluctuations, however; temperatures can drop as low as the 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1 Celsius) in some parts of the state during the winter months.
Conclusion
With some forethought and planning ahead of time though, living off-grid can provide a unique experience, unlike any other – full independence with unparalleled access to all of mother nature’s gifts right outside your door!
You also might be interested in reading about other popular places in the world to live off the grid.
