El Paso County, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
870,779
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,806/yr
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
323,571
0.9% year-over-year change

El Paso County population

How many people live in El Paso County

El Paso County is home to 870,779 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of El Paso County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
870,779
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
433,123
Female
50.3%
437,656
Value Percent YoY change
Male 433,123 49.7% 0.6%
Female 437,656 50.3% 0.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in El Paso County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.5% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.2% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.5%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
28.2%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 186,852 21.5% -1.0%
15 to 24 134,841 15.5% 0.1%
25 to 44 245,771 28.2% 1.5%
45 to 64 189,144 21.7% -0.1%
Over 65 114,171 13.1% 2.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In El Paso County, 74.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.6% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 18.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 46.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.5%
Non-citizens
10.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 650,927 74.8% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 125,908 14.5% -0.8%
Non-citizens 93,944 10.8% 1.4%
Racial breakdown
White
29.6%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
46.5%
Other
18.2%
Value Percent
White 257,683 29.6%
Black or African American 29,487 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 8,239 1%
Asian 11,128 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,460 0.2%
Two or more races 404,585 46.5%
Other 158,197 18.2%

Households in El Paso County

A peek inside El Paso County households

El Paso County has 299,637 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.7% are families, while the remaining 28.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
299,637
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
84,865
Family households
214,772
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 84,865 28.3% 1.5%
Family households 214,772 71.7% 1.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in El Paso County

The housing landscape of El Paso County

El Paso County's housing consists of 323,571 units, with 67.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 5.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
323,571
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 219,169 67.7%
1 unit, attached 12,198 3.8%
2 units 7,660 2.4%
3 or 4 units 15,320 4.7%
5 to 9 units 17,323 5.4%
10 to 19 units 14,517 4.5%
20 to 49 units 7,857 2.4%
50 or more units 11,590 3.6%
Mobile home 17,442 5.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 495 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
7,626
71.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in El Paso County

In El Paso County, the median construction year is 1988. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 13,171 4.1% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 9,384 2.9% 5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 29,441 9.1% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 27,377 8.5% -2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 46,372 14.3% -1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 45,810 14.2% -2.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 41,335 12.8% 0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 48,882 15.1% 0.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 54,173 16.7% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 7,626 2.4% 71.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

El Paso County occupancy rates

Out of the 299,637 occupied housing units in El Paso County, 64.2% are owner-occupied, while 35.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
299,637
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
107,181
Owner occupied
192,456
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 107,181 35.8% -0.4%
Owner occupied 192,456 64.2% 2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

El Paso County housing costs

Housing costs in El Paso County come to a median of $1,054 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,079.

Median housing costs per month
$1,054/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in El Paso County
$1,079/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in El Paso County

El Paso County education at a glance

About 34.7% of the population in El Paso County went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 63,218 9.8% -0.2%
High school diploma 223,691 34.7% 1.1%
College diploma 148,446 23% -0.6%
Associate degree 57,917 9% 0.2%
Bachelor's degree 103,292 16% 2.7%
Graduate degree 47,375 7.4% 4.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in El Paso County

How much people earn in El Paso County

The average annual household income in El Paso County was $79,845 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,806, reflecting a +1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in El Paso County
$79,845/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in El Paso County
$59,806/year
1.6% year-over-year change

El Paso County income by age

In El Paso County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,666. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $69,791 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,557, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,273 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,557 13.6%
25 - 44 $66,666 2.8%
45 - 64 $69,791 1.8%
Over 65 $37,273 -1.7%
Above poverty level
688,029
Below poverty level
157,438
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 688,029 81.4% 0.7%
Below poverty level 157,438 18.6% 0.1%

Employment in El Paso County

Workforce and job types in El Paso County

The job market in El Paso County is powered by 376,169 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 64.2% are employed by private companies, and 20.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
376,169
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
288,304
Blue collar
87,865
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 288,304 76.6% 1.7%
Blue collar 87,865 23.4% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
64.2%
Governmental workers
20.3%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 34,087 9.1% 2.4%
Private companies 241,501 64.2% 1.1%
Governmental workers 76,341 20.3% -0.8%
Not for profit companies 24,240 6.4% 5.2%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in El Paso County stands at 6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in El Paso County

How people get around in El Paso County

Commuting methods vary: 86.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 336,168 86.9% 0.5%
Taxicab 278 0.1% 169.9%
Bus or trolleybus 2,778 0.7% -15.2%
Subway or elevated 36 0% N/A
Railroad 163 0% -0.6%
Motorcycle 383 0.1% -36.5%
Bicycle 584 0.2% 28.6%
Walk 6,015 1.6% 8.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in El Paso County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
79821 7,227 2,077 $59,232 $69,170
79835 11,440 3,616 $45,924 $64,338
79836 7,711 2,277 $59,003 $68,401
79838 4,969 1,850 $43,367 $53,560
79849 14,409 3,975 $44,831 $56,575
79853 2,686 802 $42,234 $65,699
79901 8,554 4,024 $14,872 $25,335
79902 19,031 8,494 $50,873 $82,248
79903 14,715 5,741 $37,155 $54,139
79904 32,976 12,563 $41,841 $58,981

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FAQs about El Paso County demographics 

What is the total population of El Paso County?

El Paso County has a total population of 870,779 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in El Paso County?

The gender ratio in El Paso County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (433,123 residents)
  • 50.3% females (437,656 residents)

What is the median age in El Paso County?

The median age in El Paso County is 33.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in El Paso County?

The age distribution in El Paso County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.5% (186,852 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (134,841 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.2% (245,771 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (189,144 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.1% (114,171 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of El Paso County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of El Paso County is as follows:
  • White: 29.6% (257,683 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (29,487 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (8,239 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (11,128 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (1,460 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 46.5% (404,585 residents)
  • Other: 18.2% (158,197 residents)

What percentage of the population in El Paso County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.8% of the population in El Paso County.

How many housing units are there in El Paso County?

There are 323,571 housing units in El Paso County, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in El Paso County and what is the average household size?

El Paso County has a total of 299,637 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in El Paso County?

El Paso County has a median household income of $59,806, representing a +1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for El Paso County?

The employment rate is 94% in El Paso County, with a workforce of 376,169 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.6% (288,304 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.4% (87,865 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (34,087 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.2% (241,501 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.3% (76,341 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (24,240 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025