Professionals across the country are rethinking what they want out of work and life, and many are discovering that Santa Fe, New Mexico, offers the perfect blend of purpose, lifestyle and affordability. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and a welcoming sense of community, Santa Fe is drawing public sector leaders who are ready for a new chapter.
Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe offers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural depth and professional opportunity. With more than 300 sunny days a year, four distinct seasons and a high-desert climate, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and artists alike. But beyond its historic adobe architecture and world-renowned arts scene, Santa Fe is emerging as a smart choice for public sector professionals who understand balancing the cost of living with professional opportunities.
The City of Santa Fe is currently seeking experienced leaders to join its executive team, with open roles including Risk and Safety Compliance Officer (offering a salary range of $84,893 to $123,095), Public Utilities Director ($125,426 to $155,000) and Affordable Housing Director ($103,188 to $149,623). These aren’t just competitive salaries in New Mexico—they’re generous packages in a City where your dollar goes much farther than on the West Coast. In addition, the City offers exceptional benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance with City contributions; up to two hours per week of physical and mental fitness leave; flexible scheduling options, including remote work days; and participation in the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) pension plan.
For Californians considering a move, the financial case for Santa Fe is compelling. Housing prices in Santa Fe are significantly lower than in major California cities, with median home values hovering around $470,000 to $540,000—roughly a third of what buyers face in Los Angeles or the Bay Area. Property taxes in New Mexico are among the lowest in the nation, with an effective rate of just 0.55%. Combined with no state sales tax on groceries and moderate income tax rates, this all adds up to a lower overall cost of living, allowing professionals to enjoy a higher quality of life without the stress of living paycheck to paycheck.
Behind Santa Fe’s progress are seasoned leaders who understand the challenges and opportunities of West Coast governance. City Manager Mark Scott and Senior Policy Advisor Rod Gould are both widely respected figures in California’s public sector circles, bringing decades of leadership experience from cities across the Golden State. Under their guidance, Santa Fe is advancing a range of strategic initiatives—from expanding affordable housing and modernizing public utilities to supporting local tourism, sustainability and infrastructure investment. Their presence in Santa Fe is a testament to the City’s rising appeal for professionals who want to continue their public service careers in a place that values collaboration, balance and thoughtful policy-making.
Working in Santa Fe also means becoming part of a community that truly values its people. Whether you’re attending a downtown music festival, hiking in the nearby national forest or enjoying one of the City’s countless art openings, there’s a sense of connection here that’s hard to replicate in larger metropolitan areas. Public service isn’t just a job in Santa Fe, —it’s a way to be deeply engaged in a place where your work and life can thrive in tandem.
If you’re looking for your next big opportunity, now is the time to consider a move. Santa Fe offers the chance to take on meaningful leadership roles, live comfortably in one of America’s most culturally vibrant cities and join a team that includes some of the most respected minds in municipal government. Your next chapter could start in The City Different.