Austin vs El Paso: Cost of Living Compared (2026)

Updated Jun 2026 (3 months ago) · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Energy Information Administration

Austin vs El Paso cost comparison with difference bars
MetricAustinEl PasoDifference
Rent (1BR)$1,544$850
+58%
Median household income$93,658$59,745
+44%
Grocery cost index98.198.1
Utilities (monthly)$143$143

Salary equivalent between cities

Equivalent salary needed
$82,426
Difference
$2,426