Alameda

The Alameda area takes in some of the oldest neighborhoods in Las Cruces, north of downtown along Alameda Boulevard. At its heart is the Alameda-Depot Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which grew up around the railroad depot after the Santa Fe line arrived in 1881. The old depot is now the Las Cruces Railroad Museum.

Homes here span more than a century. Near the depot are adobe and brick homes from the early 1900s; farther out are mid-century homes on tree-lined streets, in subdivisions such as Highland Manor and Avalon Park. Lots are typically about a fifth of an acre, and mature trees are common, which is unusual in the desert.

Most homes here are modestly priced, though a restored historic home can reach $500,000. Condition varies widely with age, so updates to wiring, plumbing and roofs are worth checking on any older house. Building work in the historic district may be subject to the city’s review.

Downtown, the Saturday farmers market and the courthouse are minutes away.