Texas · Population 678,147 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in El Paso
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
El Paso is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 67 (where 100 equals the national median), El Paso residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,041/month while earning a median household income of $58,734/year.
The median home value in El Paso, TX is $171,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,044 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.
Texas has no state income tax, which can represent significant savings compared to high-tax states. Combined with a 6.25% sales tax rate and 1.6% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment helps keep costs manageable in El Paso.
Common questions about living costs in El Paso
Compare the cost of living in El Paso, TX with 299 other major U.S. cities