ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Albuquerque is ranked No. 2 in MovieMaker Magazine’s 2026 “Best Big Cities for Film,” marking eight consecutive years in the Top Five.
This year, Toronto took the top spot, making Albuquerque the highest-ranked U.S. city.
Cyndy McCrossen, Albuquerque Film Office Liaison, praised the city’s infrastructure and talented crews. “Our crews are among the best in the industry,” she said.
Vince Gilligan, creator of Breaking Bad, also highlighted the quality of the crew as a key reason for returning for Better Call Saul and Pluribus.
“The number one answer for why I keep coming back is because of the crew,” said Gilligan. “They’re friends and family, and they are wonderful. The best crew I’ve ever worked with.”
In fiscal year 2025, New Mexico’s film industry generated nearly $323 million, with Albuquerque playing a major role. The industry supports over 8,000 jobs statewide.
MovieMaker Magazine’s rankings consider production spending, tax incentives, and workforce depth.
Las Cruces and Santa Fe were also recognized in the magazine’s rankings for small cities, which came in at No. 6 and No. 1 respectively.
You can read the full list here.
