Is Albuquerque or El Paso more affordable?
Albuquerque has a median rent of $1,100/month, while El Paso is $900/month. El Paso is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Albuquerque, NM vs El Paso, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Albuquerque and El Paso.
1
Albuquerque wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
El Paso wins
NM
Albuquerque
vs
TX
El Paso
Overview
564,559
Population
678,815
$51,912✓
Median Income
-15.2%$44,000
Cost of Living
$1,100
Median Rent / mo
-18.2%$900✓
$255,000
Median Home Price
-31.4%$175,000✓
25%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
5.90%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.88%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
46°F
Avg Low Temp
52°F
278 days
Sunny Days / Year
297 days✓
10"
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Who should choose
El Paso, TX
El Paso is a city in Texas with a population of 678,815.
Read full El Paso guide →Albuquerque vs El Paso — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Albuquerque or El Paso?
New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. El Paso wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Albuquerque and El Paso?
Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. El Paso gets 297 sunny days/year. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F. Avg high in El Paso: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Albuquerque or El Paso?
Albuquerque. El Paso. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.