I’m retired in New Mexico. 24 years military and 20+ years as Def Contractor. Been here 25 years and like it just fine. High crime rate in Albuquerque but we live in the stix.
I have heard the area around the ‘Four Corners’ is a great place to be if you have an income.
What I love about New Mexico is you can get green chile on anything and everything.
I go through there about four times a year or more. This year I am doing a five day visit for the Santa Fe Opera. In the fall is the ballon festival north of Albuquerque, the artists shops in old town are great and Bandolier NM is an oasis on a hot summer day.
Lots of great little towns. ( I love Soccoro) and the Very Large Array.
I had family “retire” to Albuquerque. Great Aunt and Uncle. He was working as a rent a cop part time in his 70’s there and managed to get shot! Quite the family scandal at the time. I believe he retired for good after getting blasted.