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

Total population
680,130
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$59,745/yr
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
265,320
0.9% year-over-year change

El Paso population

How many people live in El Paso

El Paso is home to 680,130 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of El Paso locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
680,130
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
335,416
Female
50.7%
344,714
Value Percent YoY change
Male 335,416 49.3% 0.5%
Female 344,714 50.7% 0.1%
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 is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 15% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.1% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
15%
25 to 44
28.1%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
14.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 138,884 20.4% -1.9%
15 to 24 102,241 15% -0.1%
25 to 44 191,299 28.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 150,441 22.1% -0.5%
Over 65 97,265 14.3% 3.0%
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, 75.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 10.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.6% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 17.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 46.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
75.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.4%
Non-citizens
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 512,867 75.4% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 97,967 14.4% -0.8%
Non-citizens 69,296 10.2% 1.0%
Racial breakdown
White
29.8%
Black or African American
3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
46.8%
Other
17.2%
Value Percent
White 202,530 29.8%
Black or African American 24,806 3.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,121 0.9%
Asian 9,898 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,278 0.2%
Two or more races 318,265 46.8%
Other 117,232 17.2%

Households in El Paso

A peek inside El Paso households

El Paso has 245,346 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.3% are families, while the remaining 30.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
245,346
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
75,398
Family households
169,948
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 75,398 30.7% 2.0%
Family households 169,948 69.3% 0.8%
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

The housing landscape of El Paso

El Paso's housing consists of 265,320 units, with 67% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
265,320
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 177,811 67%
1 unit, attached 9,113 3.4%
2 units 6,591 2.5%
3 or 4 units 13,569 5.1%
5 to 9 units 17,007 6.4%
10 to 19 units 14,298 5.4%
20 to 49 units 7,379 2.8%
50 or more units 11,236 4.2%
Mobile home 7,878 3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 438 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
3,444
47.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in El Paso

In El Paso, the median construction year is 1984. About 4.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,370 4.7% 0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,879 3.4% 6.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 28,195 10.6% -2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 26,279 9.9% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 41,307 15.6% -0.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 38,477 14.5% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 31,382 11.8% 1.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 35,774 13.5% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 39,213 14.8% 5.5%
Built in 2020 or later 3,444 1.3% 47.9%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 245,346 occupied housing units in El Paso, 60.8% are owner-occupied, while 39.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
245,346
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
96,177
Owner occupied
149,169
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 96,177 39.2% -0.4%
Owner occupied 149,169 60.8% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in El Paso come to a median of $1,067 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,073.

Median housing costs per month
$1,067/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
$1,073/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

El Paso education at a glance

About 33.8% of the population in El Paso went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 17.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 46,080 9% -0.1%
High school diploma 172,515 33.8% 1.1%
College diploma 118,076 23.1% -1.4%
Associate degree 44,009 8.6% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 88,466 17.3% 2.6%
Graduate degree 41,950 8.2% 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

How much people earn in El Paso

The average annual household income in El Paso was $80,732 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $59,745, reflecting a +1.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in El Paso
$80,732/year
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in El Paso
$59,745/year
1.7% year-over-year change

El Paso income by age

In El Paso, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,063. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,207 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,726, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,118 in earnings. Overall, 81.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,726 10.2%
25 - 44 $66,063 3.0%
45 - 64 $71,207 2.4%
Over 65 $38,118 -1.1%
Above poverty level
543,870
Below poverty level
120,911
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 543,870 81.8% 0.3%
Below poverty level 120,911 18.2% 0.6%

Average renter income in El Paso

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in El Paso, their median household income was $37,047 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,047
Rent-to-income ratio
34.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in El Paso

Workforce and job types in El Paso

The job market in El Paso is powered by 299,718 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 64.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
299,718
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
236,452
Blue collar
63,266
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 236,452 78.9% 1.4%
Blue collar 63,266 21.1% -1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
64.1%
Governmental workers
20.4%
Not for profit companies
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 26,971 9% 0.4%
Private companies 192,190 64.1% 1.0%
Governmental workers 61,024 20.4% -1.8%
Not for profit companies 19,533 6.5% 7.6%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-2.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in El Paso 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

How people get around in El Paso

Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 265,439 87% 0.3%
Taxicab 259 0.1% 219.8%
Bus or trolleybus 2,642 0.9% -13.3%
Subway or elevated 36 0% N/A
Railroad 69 0% -1.4%
Motorcycle 357 0.1% -38.5%
Bicycle 511 0.2% 26.2%
Walk 3,585 1.2% 10.8%
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 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 demographics 

What is the total population of El Paso?

El Paso has a total population of 680,130 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in El Paso?

The gender ratio in El Paso is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (335,416 residents)
  • 50.7% females (344,714 residents)

What is the median age in El Paso?

The median age in El Paso is 34.5.

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

The age distribution in El Paso is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (138,884 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15% (102,241 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.1% (191,299 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (150,441 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.3% (97,265 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of El Paso?

The racial and ethnic makeup of El Paso is as follows:
  • White: 29.8% (202,530 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.6% (24,806 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (6,121 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (9,898 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (1,278 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 46.8% (318,265 residents)
  • Other: 17.2% (117,232 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 75.4% of the population in El Paso.

How many housing units are there in El Paso?

There are 265,320 housing units in El Paso, 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 and what is the average household size?

El Paso has a total of 245,346 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in El Paso?

El Paso has a median household income of $59,745, representing a +1.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in El Paso, with a workforce of 299,718 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.9% (236,452 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.1% (63,266 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (26,971 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.1% (192,190 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.4% (61,024 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.5% (19,533 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