Moving to El Paso, Texas: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to El Paso, Texas? The Sun City combines borderland culture, military presence, and mountain desert landscapes at the westernmost tip of Texas. Here’s your 2025 guide to relocating to Texas’s sixth-largest city.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to El Paso:

El Paso sits at the intersection of Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico, approximately 270 miles southeast of Albuquerque. With approximately 679,000 residents in the city and 996,000 in the metro area, El Paso ranks as Texas’s sixth-largest city and the nation’s 22nd-largest. The population is predominantly Hispanic (over 82%), creating strong cultural and economic ties with Ciudad Juarez across the Rio Grande. This binational region forms one of the largest international metropolitan areas. The median age of 34 years reflects a young, family-oriented population. Neighborhoods range from historic areas near downtown to suburban developments spreading into the Franklin Mountains foothills. The city’s cultural diversity, influenced by Mexican heritage and military presence, creates a unique Southwestern character.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to El Paso:

El Paso offers one of the most affordable cost of living indexes among major U.S. cities. The median household income is approximately $59,000, with median home values around $223,000—well below national averages. Texas has no state income tax, providing additional savings. The overall cost of living remains significantly lower than in Austin, Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio, while offering big-city amenities and employment opportunities. Housing affordability particularly attracts military families, young professionals, and retirees. The lower costs enable higher quality of life despite median incomes below state averages.

Economy and Job Market:

El Paso’s economy spans military, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and cross-border trade. Fort Bliss—one of the largest U.S. Army installations—employs over 40,000 military and civilian personnel, serving as the region’s economic anchor. Major employers include University Medical Center, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso Independent School District (6,000+ employees), and the University of Texas at El Paso. The city is developing a 250-acre Advanced Manufacturing District expected to create 17,000 jobs. El Paso received $20 million for a U.S. Space Force facility, leveraging proximity to White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. Major companies include ADP, Charles Schwab, Helen of Troy, and logistics firms. The unemployment rate hovers around 4.4%, comparable to national levels. The Port of El Paso facilitates significant U.S.-Mexico trade, supporting logistics and manufacturing sectors.

Education:

El Paso Independent School District, Ysleta ISD, and Socorro ISD serve the city, ranking among the region’s major employers. The University of Texas at El Paso enrolls over 24,000 students, earning recognition for graduating first-generation and minority students in STEM fields. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso trains healthcare professionals. El Paso Community College District provides associate degrees and workforce training. The region’s educational institutions support a growing skilled workforce in healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing. Approximately 28 four-year colleges and universities operate within 50 miles, creating a strong higher education ecosystem.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

El Paso’s location amid the Franklin Mountains and Chihuahuan Desert provides exceptional outdoor recreation. Franklin Mountains State Park offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives. Hueco Tanks State Park attracts world-class rock climbers. The city maintains numerous parks, the El Paso Zoo, and the El Paso Museum of Art. Downtown’s arts and entertainment district features theaters, galleries, and restaurants. Professional sports include the El Paso Chihuahuas minor league baseball team. The proximity to Mexico provides easy access to Juarez for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The year-round sunshine (over 300 days annually) and mild winters support outdoor activities throughout the year. The blend of Mexican and Southwestern cultures creates unique cuisine, music, and festivals.

Healthcare and Services:

The Hospitals of Providence, University Medical Center of El Paso, and Texas Tech Physicians of El Paso provide comprehensive healthcare services. Las Palmas Medical Center and Del Sol Medical Center round out major hospital systems. The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center supports medical education and research. William Beaumont Army Medical Center serves military personnel and families. The concentration of healthcare facilities ensures residents access specialized care across all medical fields.

Transportation:

El Paso International Airport offers service to major U.S. cities via multiple carriers. Sun Metro operates bus and streetcar service throughout El Paso, including the historic streetcar line connecting downtown, UTEP, and the Mission Valley. Interstate 10 runs through El Paso, connecting to Phoenix and San Antonio. U.S. Highway 54 provides access to New Mexico. The city’s border location enables easy crossings to Ciudad Juarez via multiple international bridges. While Sun Metro provides public transit, most residents rely on personal vehicles. Average commute times remain reasonable given the city’s size.

Conclusion:

Moving to El Paso in 2025 offers borderland living with mountain desert beauty, military community support, and exceptional affordability. The combination of Fort Bliss, major universities, growing advanced manufacturing sector, and binational culture creates unique opportunities for families, military personnel, and professionals seeking Southwestern lifestyle with big-city amenities at accessible prices.