El Paso, TX vs Downey, CA: 67 vs 169

$1,041/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 82%

$58,734/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 49%

$171,700 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 324%

$1,044/mo ↓ 48%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 91%

678,147

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing El Paso, TX and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $851/month cheaper in El Paso, saving renters about $10,212/year.

Median household income is $28,666/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in El Paso is $171,700 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Texas has no state income tax, giving El Paso residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

El Paso vs Downey — common questions

Is El Paso or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, El Paso is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between El Paso and Downey?

Median rent in El Paso is $1,041/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $851/month.

Which city has higher income, El Paso or Downey?

Median household income is $58,734 in El Paso and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $28,666/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to El Paso or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. El Paso has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,041/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: El Paso, TX vs Downey, CA (2026)

El Paso

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons