In 2018, OTT giant Netflix had a positive experience producing series and films in New Mexico which inspired them to establish a new production hub in Albuquerque. This decision marked their its purchase of a production studio complex, which included eight sound stages on 28 acres and a rich history of productions, including The Avengers, Breaking Bad, and Sicario, which were partially filmed on the lot.
Today, six years later, co-CEO Ted Sarandos shared in a statement that they are thrilled to introduce their newly expanded west coast production facility, featuring four new sound stages, three mills, one production office, two stage support buildings, and two dedicated backlot areas across 108 acres. The expansion will enable them to enhance their creative output and produce even more compelling films and series for their global audience.
The expanded studio incorporates new features, including on-site solar and battery storage systems, geothermal heating and cooling, all-electric appliances, and 50 electric vehicle fast chargers, including DC fast chargers. These features will help them reduce the studio’s carbon footprint, lower operating costs, and improve the production experience.
Since acquiring Albuquerque Studios, New Mexico has proven to be an exceptional production hub for the platform. It offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, a talented workforce, and a supportive community. Netflix had the privilege of filming numerous series and films in New Mexico, including Stranger Things, The Harder They Fall, Army of the Dead, and El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie. They are looking to continue this streak with upcoming series filmed on the studio lot, including a contemporary western romance Ransom Canyon; a medical procedural Pulse; and a new supernatural show The Boroughs.
Since 2019, Netflix has directly invested nearly US$575 million in New Mexico productions. When considering other productions that have used Netflix Studios Albuquerque, the overall investment is closer to US$900 million. Additionally, Netflix hired over 4,000 cast and crew members in New Mexico from 2021 to 2023.
In 2022, they launched Netflix in Your Neighborhood, a website encouraging fans to explore the filming locations of popular films and series shot in various parts of New Mexico. Today, the website features over 100 filming locations and cultural sites across eight titles, including Stranger Things, Chupa, Better Call Saul, The Harder They Fall, and Army of the Dead. Their goal is to contribute culturally to the state and bring the excitement of their films and series beyond the screen and into the community.
The expansion by Netflix was supported by New Mexico governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, senator Ben Ray Luján, Albuquerque mayor Tim Keller, and the numerous vendor partners (including the 2,800 construction workers who helped make this expansion possible).