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Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Located in Sandoval County, New Mexico, Rio Rancho was established in 1961. Rio Rancho was created through mail-order land sales — buyers purchased lots sight unseen. Intel's chip fabrication plant is one of the largest employers in New Mexico.
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Founded 1961 | Population 105,000 | Peak 105,000 (2024) | County Sandoval County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Rio Rancho, New Mexico

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1942Military Presence: Military installations became a major part of Rio Rancho's identity and economy.
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1961AMREP Land Development: Mail-order land sales create desert subdivision.
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1993Intel Fab Plant: Intel builds major chip fabrication facility.
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2023NM's 3rd Largest: Continued Albuquerque metro growth.
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Complete Historical Timeline

1942 Government
Military Presence
1961 Business
AMREP Land Development
1993 Industry
Intel Fab Plant
2023 Business
NM's 3rd Largest

Did You Know?

1
Rio Rancho was created through mail-order land sales — buyers purchased lots sight unseen.
2
Intel's chip fabrication plant is one of the largest employers in New Mexico.
3
At 5,280 feet, Rio Rancho is at the same elevation as Denver.
4
Rio Rancho is located in Sandoval County, New Mexico.
5
Rio Rancho was founded in 1961.
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