Houston vs El Paso

El Paso is cheaper to live in overall. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 while El Paso has an index of 82, where 100 represents the US national average. El Paso is 14% cheaper than Houston overall.

The median 1-bedroom rent in Houston is $1,350 per month compared to $950 in El Paso. The median home price in Houston is $265,000 versus $185,000 in El Paso. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.

Houston has a cost of living index of 95 and El Paso has an index of 82, both measured against a US national average of 100. An index above 100 means more expensive than the national average — below 100 means cheaper.

To maintain the same purchasing power as a salary in Houston, multiply by 0.86. For example a $75,000 salary in Houston is equivalent to approximately $64,737 in El Paso.

Houston has a median household income of $56,019 per year versus $47,568 in El Paso. Higher incomes must be weighed against cost of living. Use the Dayblip salary tools to see specific job salaries in both cities.

Whether moving from Houston to El Paso is worthwhile depends on your salary, lifestyle, and priorities. El Paso is 14% cheaper overall — with the biggest difference in housing. Use the Dayblip cost of living calculator to enter your specific salary and see the exact dollar impact.