Indexed to national average (100)
See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in El Paso.
About El Paso
El Paso is one of the most affordable large cities in America, sitting on the US-Mexico border. Fort Bliss military base is a major employer, and the growing healthcare and manufacturing sectors offer solid middle-class opportunities.
Compare Nearby Cities
Explore More
All Cities in TX
Explore cost of living data for every city in TX. Compare rent, housing, and expenses statewide.
Salary Calculator
Calculate what salary you need in any city to maintain your standard of living. Compare purchasing power across cities.
Cheapest Cities in the US
See how El Paso ranks among the most affordable US cities. Sort by rent, cost index, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is El Paso expensive?
El Paso has a cost of living index of 89.9, where 100 represents the national average. This makes El Paso more affordable than most US cities.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in El Paso?
Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $42,920 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in El Paso and maintain basic expenses.
What is the median rent in El Paso?
The median 2-bedroom rent in El Paso is $1,073 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.