New York City vs El Paso
Cost of Living (2026)
El Paso is 56% more affordable than New York City. Plus, Texas has no state income tax vs New York's 6.85%.
Enter your salary → get exact comparisonAt a glance
New York City, NY
COL index187
State income tax6.85%
Avg 1BR rent$3,400/mo
Median home price$750K
VS
El Paso, TX
COL index82 ✓
State income taxNone ✓
Avg 1BR rent$850/mo ✓
Median home price$190K ✓
Cost breakdown by category
Salary equivalency: New York City → El Paso
What salary in El Paso gives you the same purchasing power as your New York City salary?
New York City vs El Paso: Full Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
When comparing the cost of living between New York City, NY and El Paso, TX, El Paso comes out significantly more affordable with a COL index of 82 versus 187 for New York City — a difference of approximately 56%.
State income tax impact
Texas has no state income tax, giving El Paso workers an immediate 6.85% take-home pay advantage over New York City workers who pay New York's 6.85% state income tax.
Housing costs
The median home price in New York City is $750,000, compared to $190,000 in El Paso. Average 1-bedroom rent is $3,400/month in New York City versus $850/month in El Paso.