Moving to El Paso
El Paso, Texas, is one of the most unique cities in the United States. Sitting on the border with Mexico, across the Rio Grande from Ciudad Juárez, El Paso blends American and Mexican culture in ways few cities can. With a population of nearly 680,000 (and more than 2.5 million when combined with Ciudad Juárez and Las Cruces, New Mexico), El Paso is part of one of the largest binational metropolitan areas in the world.
Moving to El Paso means joining a community with deep history, strong cultural traditions, and a cost of living that remains remarkably affordable compared to most large U.S. cities. Known for its warm climate, safe neighborhoods, and military presence through Fort Bliss, El Paso attracts families, professionals, retirees, and students alike.
At the same time, life in El Paso comes with challenges. The desert climate brings scorching summers, wages are lower than national averages, and the economy depends heavily on a few sectors. Still, for many, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, making El Paso a hidden gem in the Southwest.
Why More People Are Moving from Other States to El Paso
El Paso has seen a steady rise in newcomers from other states — and even from larger Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. The number one reason is affordability. Housing in El Paso is significantly cheaper than in most major U.S. metros. Families can purchase spacious homes with yards for prices that are a fraction of those in California or New York.
The city’s safety is another reason. El Paso consistently ranks among the safest large cities in America, with low violent crime rates despite its border location. This makes it particularly appealing for families and retirees looking for peace of mind.
El Paso’s location is also attractive. Situated along I-10, the city serves as a gateway between Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico. It’s within driving distance of Las Cruces, White Sands National Park, and Carlsbad Caverns. Its international border location creates a unique cultural identity and opportunities for cross-border commerce.
The presence of Fort Bliss, one of the largest military complexes in the U.S., brings stability to the economy and community. Many military families move to El Paso for assignments, and some decide to stay permanently after experiencing its lifestyle.
For people relocating from more expensive states, El Paso provides affordability, safety, and cultural richness that is hard to find elsewhere.
Pros of Living in El Paso
Affordability is the biggest pro. Median home prices are well below the national average, and rents are among the lowest for large U.S. cities. This makes homeownership achievable for families, young professionals, and retirees.
Another advantage is safety. Despite misconceptions about border cities, El Paso consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the U.S. Low crime rates and community-oriented policing create a secure environment.
The cultural richness is unmatched. With a Hispanic-majority population, El Paso offers a vibrant mix of Mexican and American traditions. Festivals, cuisine, and daily life reflect this blend, creating a unique cultural atmosphere.
The climate is another plus for many. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, El Paso is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, biking, and desert adventures. The Franklin Mountains State Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, sits within the city limits.
Finally, El Paso’s sense of community stands out. Neighbors often know each other, and the city’s slower pace of life makes it feel welcoming and family-friendly.
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Cons of Living in El Paso
The biggest drawback is wages. While the cost of living is low, salaries are also below the national average. Many jobs in retail, hospitality, and service industries pay less than in larger metros, making high-paying opportunities harder to find outside healthcare, education, or the military.
Another con is climate. Summers in El Paso are hot, with daytime highs frequently exceeding 100°F. While the dry heat is more tolerable than humidity, it still makes outdoor activities challenging in peak summer.
Job diversity is limited. While Fort Bliss, healthcare, and cross-border trade provide stability, El Paso doesn’t offer the same variety of industries as cities like Dallas or Austin.
Public transportation is also lacking. Sun Metro buses provide basic coverage, but most residents rely on cars. Commuting isn’t as congested as in larger metros, but vehicle ownership is almost essential.
Finally, El Paso’s relative isolation can be a drawback. It’s far from other major Texas cities, with Dallas nearly 10 hours away by car. This can make it feel cut off for those used to being near multiple urban hubs.
What Life is Like in El Paso
Life in El Paso is family-focused, culturally vibrant, and relaxed. Residents enjoy a slower pace compared to big Texas metros, but without losing access to urban amenities. Downtown El Paso has undergone revitalization, with new restaurants, coffee shops, and cultural spaces joining historic landmarks.
Neighborhoods offer different lifestyles. The East Side and West Side have newer developments with suburban conveniences, while Central El Paso features historic homes and proximity to downtown. The Northeast is popular with military families due to its closeness to Fort Bliss.
Food is a highlight of life in El Paso. Authentic Mexican cuisine dominates, with tacos, enchiladas, and tamales as staples. Tex-Mex blends add variety, and new restaurants are emerging downtown. Residents also pride themselves on local specialties like chile con queso and border-style burritos.
Community events are part of daily life. Festivals such as the Sun City Music Festival, Fiesta de las Flores, and the El Paso Downtown Street Festival bring people together. Sports fans cheer for the El Paso Chihuahuas (minor league baseball) and UTEP Miners athletics.
For outdoor enthusiasts, El Paso is paradise. Franklin Mountains State Park offers hiking and mountain biking, while Hueco Tanks State Park is world-renowned for rock climbing. The desert landscape provides endless opportunities for exploration.
Living Costs in El Paso
El Paso is one of the most affordable large cities in the United States. Housing is the biggest factor, with prices far below the national average.
| Category | El Paso | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per Month) | $1,100 | $1,570 |
| Utilities | $170 | $180 |
| Groceries | $310 | $330 |
| Transportation | $140 | $140 |
| Healthcare | $420 | $440 |
Low housing costs make El Paso particularly attractive for families, retirees, and professionals who work remotely. The trade-off is lower wages, but many find the balance worthwhile.
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Schools and Education in El Paso
El Paso is served by multiple school districts, including El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), Ysleta ISD, and Socorro ISD. Many schools have strong reputations, particularly in the East Side and West Side neighborhoods. Magnet programs and bilingual education options are common, reflecting the city’s cultural heritage.
Higher education includes the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), a major research institution with strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences. El Paso Community College provides affordable pathways to higher education and transfers to four-year universities.
Education in El Paso reflects its binational identity. Spanish-English bilingual programs are widely available, and cross-cultural learning is part of the city’s DNA. For families, this provides unique opportunities for children to grow up multilingual and culturally aware.
Transportation and Getting Around
El Paso is a car-dependent city. I-10 runs directly through it, connecting residents to New Mexico and the rest of Texas. Traffic is lighter than in Dallas or Houston, but congestion occurs during rush hours.
Public transportation is limited to Sun Metro buses and the restored El Paso Streetcar, which operates in downtown. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and errands.
El Paso International Airport provides convenient domestic flights and limited international routes. Its location makes it easier for residents to travel compared to larger Texas metros.
Cycling and walking are possible in certain neighborhoods, but for most, driving is essential.
United Local Movers: Our Services
Relocating to El Paso is easier with professionals who know the city. United Local Movers specializes in stress-free moves across Texas and beyond.
Our services include packing, safe storage, and long-distance relocations. Whether moving into a historic home in Central El Paso, a modern property in the West Side, or a rental near Fort Bliss, our crews are trained to handle every detail.
With transparent pricing and tailored plans, United Local Movers ensures every client enjoys peace of mind during their relocation.
Average Cost to Move to El Paso
Moving costs depend on distance and home size, but El Paso relocations are generally more affordable than those in larger Texas cities.
| Move Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Local Move (1-2 Bedrooms) | $900–$1,800 |
| Cross-Country Move | $3,000–$5,800 |
| Full Packing Services | + $350–$800 |
| Storage Options | $120–$260 per month |
United Local Movers provides upfront estimates with no hidden fees, ensuring clients know what to expect.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
When moving to El Paso, selecting the right mover is essential. Look for companies with proven experience in Texas relocations, proper licensing, and insurance. Request written estimates and avoid movers who provide vague or suspiciously low quotes.
Customer reviews offer insights into professionalism and reliability. Movers should be transparent about additional fees and prepared to handle the desert climate’s challenges.
United Local Movers combines local knowledge with nationwide service, making it the trusted choice for relocations to El Paso.
Final Thoughts
El Paso is a city where affordability, culture, and safety come together in a way few large U.S. cities can match. Its Mexican-American identity, outdoor opportunities, and sense of community make it one of the Southwest’s hidden gems. While wages are lower and summers are hot, the benefits of space, affordability, and cultural richness often outweigh the drawbacks.
For families, retirees, students, and professionals, El Paso offers a lifestyle that is both affordable and rewarding. And with United Local Movers, your relocation to El Paso can be smooth, professional, and stress-free.
