Netflix Studios Albuquerque: A Hub for Global Cinema and Television
Located in the heart of the Mesa del Sol development in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Netflix Studios - Albuquerque stands as a cornerstone of modern film and television production. From its origins as a regional facility to its current status as a primary production hub for Netflix Originals, the studio has played a pivotal role in bringing some of the most acclaimed stories of the 21st century to life.
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Key Facts
- Location: 5650 University Boulevard SE, Mesa del Sol, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Facilities: Twelve sound stages, production offices, and a dedicated backlot.
- Acquisition: Purchased by Netflix in 2018 for a $30 million capital investment.
- Expansion: A 300-acre expansion began in May 2022, backed by a $1 billion production spending commitment.
- Legacy: Formerly known as ABQ Studios, it served as the headquarters for the crew of Breaking Bad.
From ABQ Studios to a Netflix Powerhouse
Completed in 2007 with an initial construction budget of approximately $91 million, the facility was originally known as Albuquerque Studios (or ABQ Studios). It quickly became a magnet for high-profile productions due to its state-of-the-art infrastructure. While In Plain Sight was the first production to utilize the space, it is most famously associated with the television phenomenon Breaking Bad.
The studio's connection to Breaking Bad is so deep that it even appears in the show's lore. In the season 5 episode "Buried," the coordinates where the character Walter White buries his money (34°59′12″N 106°36′31″W) actually point directly to the studio's location.
The Netflix Acquisition and Investment
In October 2018, Netflix entered negotiations to acquire the facility to establish a primary production base for its original content. The acquisition involved a $30 million capital investment from Netflix, supplemented by $14.5 million in funding provided by the city of Albuquerque and the state of New Mexico.
To keep pace with the growing demand for high-quality streaming content, Netflix announced a massive expansion in November 2020. This project adds 300 acres (120 hectares) to the site, supported by a $1 billion commitment toward production spending. Construction on this expansion commenced in May 2022 and is slated for completion by 2024.
Production History and Notable Works
The studio has hosted a diverse array of projects, ranging from gritty crime dramas to massive superhero blockbusters. Its versatility is evidenced by the wide variety of genres filmed on its sound stages and backlot.
| Production Title | Year(s) |
|---|---|
| Breaking Bad | 2008–2013 |
| The Book of Eli | 2010 |
| The Avengers | 2012 |
| The Lone Ranger | 2013 |
| Better Call Saul | 2015–2022 |
| Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials | 2015 |
| Independence Day: Resurgence | 2016 |
| Just Getting Started | 2017 |
| Logan | 2017 |
| El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie | 2019 |
| Stranger Things (Season 4) | 2022 |
| Ransom Canyon (Season 1) | 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the studio called before Netflix bought it?
Before the acquisition, the facility was known as Albuquerque Studios or ABQ Studios.
Where exactly is Netflix Studios located?
The studio is located at 5650 University Boulevard SE in the Mesa del Sol development of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
How much did Netflix invest in the studio's acquisition and expansion?
Netflix invested $30 million for the initial acquisition and has committed $1 billion toward production spending as part of a 300-acre expansion.
Which famous TV show used this studio as its headquarters?
The crew of Breaking Bad used the studio as their headquarters, and the facility also hosted its spin-off, Better Call Saul.
When is the current expansion expected to be finished?
Construction for the expansion began in May 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2024.