Moving to El Paso: A Guide
Are you considering a move to El Paso, Texas? Whether you're relocating for a job opportunity, following your heart for a relationship, or simply seeking a change of scenery, El Paso offers a unique blend of culture and community that might be what you're looking for. As an El Paso therapist who has helped many clients navigate the emotional relocation journey, I've put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand what life in the Sun City is like and how to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming. The change affects not just your physical surroundings but also your emotional well-being.
Is El Paso a Good Place to Live?
This is typically the first question people ask when considering a move to El Paso, and the answer is a resounding "yes" for many residents, though, as with any city, your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.
The weather is another major selling point. With over 300 sunny days annually, El Paso lives up to its "Sun City" nickname. The desert climate means hot summers, but low humidity makes even the highest temperatures more bearable than in muggy locales. Winters are mild, with rare snowfall that rarely sticks around for long.
What truly distinguishes El Paso is its bicultural character. Sitting right on the U.S.-Mexico border, the city embraces its Mexican heritage while maintaining a distinctly American identity. This cultural fusion is evident in everything from the local cuisine to the widespread bilingualism and vibrant arts scene.
However, El Paso isn't without its challenges. The isolated location means fewer direct flights and longer drives to other major Texas cities. Job opportunities, while growing, are still concentrated in specific sectors. And for those used to the amenities of larger metropolitan areas, El Paso's entertainment and dining scenes, though improving rapidly, might initially seem limited.
For those who value community connection, El Paso's friendly atmosphere and strong family values create a welcoming environment that many newcomers find refreshing compared to the anonymity of larger cities.
Is El Paso Safe?
El Paso consistently ranks among the safest large cities in America, despite misconceptions that sometimes arise due to its border location. The city offers an appealing combination of urban amenities and open spaces, with a cost of living significantly below the national average. Housing is particularly affordable compared to many other U.S. metropolitan areas.
The Pros of Living in El Paso
Affordability That's Hard to Beat
El Paso's cost of living is approximately 10-15% below the national average, and housing costs are particularly attractive. The median home price hovers around $185,000-$200,000, compared to the national median of over $350,000. This affordability extends beyond housing to everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare.
For many of my clients who have relocated from more expensive areas, this financial breathing room has reduced stress and allowed them to pursue goals that seemed out of reach in pricier cities—whether home ownership, starting a business, or simply working less and enjoying life more.
A Safe, Family-Friendly Environment
Despite its size (population around 680,000), El Paso maintains remarkably low crime rates. The city routinely ranks among the country's safest metropolitan areas, providing peace of mind for families, singles, and seniors alike.
This safety, combined with strong school districts in many areas and family-oriented activities, makes El Paso particularly attractive to those with children or planning to start a family. The city offers numerous parks, community centers, and youth programs that foster a healthy environment for kids to grow and learn.
Rich Cultural Heritage
El Paso's Mexican-American culture creates a vibrant, unique atmosphere that influences everything from local festivals to everyday interactions. The city celebrates this heritage through events like the annual Amigo Airsho, Fiesta de las Flores, and Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
The food scene deserves special mention—El Paso offers some of the most authentic Mexican cuisine north of the border, alongside Tex-Mex variations and an increasingly diverse international food scene. From hole-in-the-wall taquerias to upscale dining, food lovers will find plenty to explore.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
Set against the backdrop of the Franklin Mountains, El Paso offers stunning desert landscapes and outdoor activities year-round. Franklin Mountains State Park, the largest urban park in the nation, sits right in the city limits, providing hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing opportunities just minutes from downtown.
The region's sunny climate makes outdoor living a central part of the El Paso lifestyle. From casual strolls along scenic trails to challenging mountain hikes, there's something for every fitness level. Nearby attractions like White Sands National Park (about an hour and a half drive) provide unforgettable day-trip experiences.
Growing Arts and Entertainment Scene
While El Paso might not have the cultural cachet of Austin or larger cities, its arts scene is vibrant and evolving. The Plaza Theatre, a beautifully restored 1930s movie palace, hosts Broadway shows and concerts. The El Paso Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning centuries, with special emphasis on Mexican, European, and American works.
Music lovers will find everything from traditional Mexican folk music to indie rock, with venues like the Abraham Chavez Theatre and Lowbrow Palace hosting both local talents and touring acts. Annual events like Neon Desert Music Festival bring in national headliners and draw crowds from across the region.
The Potential Challenges of El Paso Living
Job Market Considerations
While El Paso's economy is stable and growing, the job market presents some challenges depending on your field. Major employers include Fort Bliss (one of the largest military installations in the U.S.), healthcare systems like The Hospitals of Providence and University Medical Center, educational institutions including the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), and call centers for major corporations.
High-paying professional jobs can be competitive, and some specialized fields have limited opportunities. This is particularly true in industries like tech, finance, and certain creative professions. However, the flip side is less competition for the existing positions than saturated job markets in larger cities.
Transportation Limitations
El Paso is a car-dependent city, though efforts to improve public transportation are ongoing. The Sun Metro bus system provides basic coverage, but most residents find having a personal vehicle necessary for convenient daily living.
The city's international airport offers fewer direct flights than larger hubs, making travel more complicated and time-consuming. For regional travel, be prepared for long drives—El Paso is hundreds of miles from other major Texas cities like San Antonio (550 miles), Austin (580 miles), and Dallas (635 miles).
Weather Extremes
While the abundant sunshine is a major plus, summer temperatures regularly climb above 100°F from June through August. The heat can be intense, though the low humidity makes it more bearable than in muggier climates.
Water conservation is a way of life here, as El Paso sits in the Chihuahuan Desert. Drought conditions are common, and landscaping trends reflect this reality with desert-adapted plants and xeriscaping rather than lush lawns.
Adjustment to Border City Dynamics
Living in a border city has unique characteristics that may require adjustment. The blending of languages, cultures, and currencies (many businesses near the border accept both U.S. dollars and Mexican pesos) creates a distinct atmosphere unlike that of most American cities.
Border crossing delays can impact daily life if you plan to visit Juárez regularly, and national immigration policies can affect the community atmosphere even for those who don't cross the border.
Finding Your Place: El Paso Neighborhoods
El Paso's diverse neighborhoods offer something for almost every lifestyle preference and budget. Here's a breakdown of some key areas to consider:
West Side
The West Side is generally considered El Paso's most desirable area, with higher home prices reflecting this popularity. The neighborhoods closest to the Franklin Mountains offer stunning views and quick access to outdoor recreation. The area features well-regarded schools, upscale shopping at The Shops at La Cantera and Sunland Park Mall, and some of the city's finest dining establishments.
Popular West Side neighborhoods include:
Coronado: Upscale homes with mountain views
Mesa Hills: Conveniently located with good access to shopping
Upper Valley: More spacious properties with a slightly rural feel
East Side
El Paso's fastest-growing area, the East Side, offers newer developments and typically more affordable housing than the West Side. This sprawling region has seen massive retail development in recent years, particularly around Zaragoza Road. Due to its proximity to Fort Bliss, the area attracts many military families.
Notable East Side neighborhoods include:
Pebble Hills: Family-friendly with newer homes
Montwood: Established area with good schools
Horizon City: Technically its own municipality, but functionally part of El Paso's eastern expansion, offering newer, affordable housing
Central El Paso
This is the city's historic heart, featuring charming older homes, established neighborhoods, and landmark institutions like UTEP. Central El Paso offers the most urban feel, with walkable districts, historic architecture, and cultural attractions. Housing ranges from affordable apartments to historic Sunset Heights and Kern Place mansions.
Central neighborhoods to consider:
Kern Place: Historic charm near UTEP with an active nightlife scene
Sunset Heights: Historic district with stunning architecture
Downtown: Increasing residential options amid ongoing revitalization
Northeast El Paso
The Northeast offers some of the city's most affordable housing and is convenient to Fort Bliss. The area features a mix of older neighborhoods and newer developments, and its diverse population includes many military families.
Key Northeast areas include:
Northgate: Established neighborhood with proximity to Fort Bliss
Rushfair: Affordable homes in a convenient location
Castner Heights: Popular with military families
How to Find a Job in El Paso
If you're moving without a job in hand, here are strategies to help your employment search:
Understand the Major Employment Sectors
Government/Military: Fort Bliss employs thousands of civilians and military personnel. Federal agencies like Customs and Border Protection and the DEA also have significant presences.
Healthcare: With multiple hospital systems and an aging population, administrative and clinical positions are plentiful.
Education: El Paso has several school districts, plus UTEP, El Paso Community College, and private educational institutions.
Manufacturing: Companies like Hoover, Electrolux, and automotive parts suppliers provide production and logistics jobs.
Call Centers: Many major corporations operate customer service centers in El Paso, taking advantage of the bilingual workforce.
Leverage Local Resources
The Workforce Solutions Borderplex offers job matching, training programs, and employment resources. Their website (borderplexjobs.com) lists local opportunities and provides information about career development services.
UTEP's career services are available not just to students but often to community members as well, particularly for job fairs and networking events.
Network Strategically
El Paso's business community is tightly knit, making networking particularly effective. Consider joining:
The Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce
Young El Paso Professionals (YEP)
Professional associations related to your field
LinkedIn groups focused on El Paso employment can also provide valuable connections and job leads.
Consider the Bilingual Advantage
While not required for all positions, Spanish language skills are a significant asset in El Paso's job market. Even basic Spanish proficiency can set you apart from other candidates, particularly in customer-facing roles or positions requiring community engagement.
If your Spanish is rusty or non-existent, consider taking classes through community programs or online resources before or after your move.
Finding Housing in El Paso
Renting vs. Buying
El Paso's affordable housing market makes buying a viable option even for newcomers. With median home prices well below national averages, monthly mortgage payments often compare favorably to rent in similar properties.
However, renting first gives you time to explore different neighborhoods and ensure your job situation is stable before committing to a purchase. Rental prices are reasonable throughout the city, with average one-bedroom apartments ranging from $650-$950 monthly depending on location and amenities.
Working with Local Professionals
While online listings provide a good starting point, connecting with a local real estate professional familiar with El Paso's neighborhoods can save you time and potential headaches. They can guide you to areas that match your priorities, whether that's school quality, commute time, or lifestyle preferences.
For rentals, property management companies like Presidio Property Management and BIC Real Estate offer multiple options throughout the city and can streamline the application process.
Timing Your Move
El Paso's real estate market doesn't experience the extreme seasonal swings of some cities, but you'll generally find more options in late spring and summer. If you're moving with school-age children, trying to settle before the school year begins in August is ideal.
The rental market moves quickly, with most desirable properties renting within 1-2 weeks of listing. Be prepared to make decisions promptly, especially during peak moving seasons.
Practical Tips for New El Pasoans
Transportation Tips
While most El Pasoans rely on cars, the city has been investing in transportation alternatives:
The streetcar system connects Downtown to UTEP and nearby neighborhoods
Sun Metro continues expanding bus routes and improving service frequency
Bicycle infrastructure is growing, with dedicated lanes on many major streets
If driving, be aware that rush hour traffic concentrates on I-10 and major arteries like Mesa Street on the West Side and Montana Avenue on the East Side. However, even El Paso's worst traffic pales in comparison to larger Texas cities.
Managing the Climate
El Paso's desert climate requires some adaptation:
Stay hydrated, especially during summer months
Invest in good sunscreen and UV-protective clothing
Consider energy-efficient windows and cooling systems when choosing housing
Learn desert landscaping principles if you'll have a yard to maintain
The dry air can also affect your skin, respiratory system, and even how quickly your groceries go stale. Humidifiers, moisturizers, and proper food storage can help you adjust to desert living.
Connect with the Community
Finding your social circle is crucial for feeling at home in a new city. El Paso offers numerous ways to connect:
Faith communities play a central role in many El Pasoans' lives
Recreational sports leagues for adults span from competitive to casual
Volunteer opportunities abound with organizations like El Pasoano, the Humane Society, and food banks
Meetup groups cater to interests from hiking to book discussions
Navigating the Emotional Journey of Relocation
Moving to a new city represents not just a physical change but a significant emotional transition. As an El Paso therapist, I've worked with many clients through this adjustment process, which often includes:
The Relocation Emotional Cycle
Most people experience predictable emotional phases when moving to a new city:
Excitement/Anticipation: The initial thrill of change and new possibilities
Practical Stress: The logistics of moving create tension and anxiety
Initial Exploration: Discovering new favorite places creates renewed excitement
Homesickness/Comparison: Missing familiar places and routines, often accompanied by comparing the new location unfavorably to the previous one
Adjustment/Integration: Gradually developing new routines and connections
Belonging: Eventually feeling "at home" in the new environment
Understanding that these feelings are normal can help you be more patient with yourself during the transition. The timeline varies greatly from person to person—some feel settled within months, while others may take a year or more to fully adjust.
Building Your Support System
Proactively establishing social connections is one of the most effective ways to ease the transition. Consider:
Maintaining regular contact with friends and family from your previous location
Joining groups aligned with your interests or values
Introducing yourself to neighbors
Exploring El Paso with an open mind and curiosity about local traditions
If you find yourself struggling with the emotional aspects of relocation, seeking professional support through El Paso depression counseling can provide strategies tailored to your specific situation. Even a few sessions can make a significant difference in how you experience this major life change.
Special Considerations for Relationship Relocations
Moving for a relationship presents unique challenges. If you've relocated to El Paso to be with a partner, you may experience:
Dependency on your partner for social connections
Resentment if career opportunities don't meet expectations
Unbalanced sacrifice if your partner is thriving while you're struggling
El Paso couples counseling can help navigate these dynamics before they create lasting relationship issues. Having a neutral space to discuss expectations, frustrations, and adjustment strategies benefits both partners—the one who moved and the one who may feel responsible for the other's happiness in El Paso.
El Paso's Hidden Gems
Beyond the basic logistics of moving, discovering what makes El Paso special will help you develop a genuine appreciation for your new home:
Culinary Treasures
L&J Cafe: Often called "the old place by the cemetery," this El Paso institution serves some of the city's best enchiladas
Kiki's Restaurant: A local favorite for authentic Mexican food in a no-frills setting
Track One: The quintessential El Paso dive bar with unexpectedly excellent burgers
Ardovino's Desert Crossing: Just outside city limits in Sunland Park, NM, offering upscale dining with mountain views
Chico's Tacos: A polarizing El Paso tradition—locals either love or hate these rolled tacos in a special tomato soup
Cultural Experiences
El Paso Museum of History: Offers interactive exhibits on the region's rich past
Chamizal National Memorial: Commemorates the peaceful resolution of a border dispute through both parkland and cultural programming
Music Under the Stars: Free summer concert series at the Chamizal featuring diverse musical styles
Segundo Barrio Murals: Walking tour of vibrant street art depicting El Paso's cultural heritage
KLAQ Balloonfest: Annual hot air balloon festival that transforms the desert sky
Natural Wonders
Hueco Tanks State Historic Site: World-famous rock climbing destination and home to ancient pictographs
Franklin Mountains State Park Tin Mines Trail: Less trafficked than some park areas, offering unique views and historical interest
Rio Grande river parks: Walking and biking paths along the historic river
McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre: Outdoor venue nestled in the mountains hosting concerts and productions against a stunning natural backdrop
Making Your El Paso Transition Successful
The most successful relocations to El Paso share common elements:
Embrace the Pace and Culture
El Paso operates on a different rhythm than many other American cities. Business moves a bit slower, relationships matter more than efficiency in many contexts, and the border influence creates a unique social atmosphere. Rather than resisting these differences, leaning into them often leads to a more satisfying experience.
Learn Some Spanish
Even basic Spanish phrases demonstrate respect for the local culture and open doors to more authentic experiences. You'll encounter Spanish everywhere from street signs to casual conversation, and efforts to engage with the language are generally appreciated.
Develop Border Fluency
Understanding the symbiotic relationship between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez enriches your experience. While safety concerns have limited cross-border recreation in recent years, the economic and cultural connections remain profound. Learning border etiquette and documentation requirements allows you to fully appreciate this unique aspect of El Paso life.
Connect with El Paso's History
The region's history spans indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, Mexican independence, and American expansion. Visiting historic sites like the Magoffin Home, Mission Trail, and El Paso Museum of History provides context that makes present-day El Paso more meaningful.
When the Transition Gets Tough: Finding Support
Even with the best preparation, relocating can trigger significant stress, anxiety, or depression for some people. Major life changes disrupt routines, separate us from support systems, and force adaptation to new environments and expectations.
If you find yourself struggling with the emotional aspects of your move to El Paso, know that help is available. As an El Paso therapist specializing in life transitions, I've helped many clients navigate relocation challenges through virtual counseling sessions that fit even the busiest schedule.
Whether you're experiencing adjustment difficulties, relationship strain due to the move, or simply need a supportive space to process this significant life change, therapy provides personalized strategies and support. El Paso depression counseling can be particularly valuable during major transitions when we're more vulnerable to mental health challenges.
Ready to Make El Paso Home?
El Paso's combination of affordability, safety, natural beauty, and rich culture makes it an excellent choice for your next chapter. The city welcomes newcomers with authentic hospitality that often surprises those accustomed to more reserved communities.
While any relocation comes with challenges, the rewards of embracing El Paso living can be substantial—from the breathtaking desert sunsets to the warm community connections to the unique bicultural experiences unavailable elsewhere in Texas.
As you prepare for this exciting change, remember that building a fulfilling life in a new city takes time. Be patient with yourself during the adjustment period, actively seek connections within the community, and don't hesitate to ask for support when needed.
Finding Your El Paso Therapist
If you’re searching for a therapist in El Paso to help with your move or marriage counseling in El Paso, during your transition to El Paso life, I offer virtual counseling sessions through Sagebrush Counseling that fit seamlessly into your schedule. Whether you're dealing with relocation stress, relationship adjustments, or want to ensure your mental well-being during this significant change, I'm here to help.
Virtual counseling eliminates commute time and offers the comfort of connecting from your own space—particularly valuable when everything else in your life feels new and unfamiliar. To learn more about how therapy can support your El Paso transition or to schedule a 15-minute consultation, visit Sagebrush Counseling today.
Welcome to El Paso—I hope you'll soon be calling the Sun City "home."
