Let the numbers do the talking.
Austin, TX vs El Paso, TX
Austin, TX vs El Paso, TX: What the data shows
Austin, TX is in Austin, TX while El Paso, TX is in El Paso, TX — both in the same state. On home prices, El Paso, TX is the more affordable option at $84,000 median — $485,700 less than Austin, TX's $569,700. WYLT rates Austin, TX as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and El Paso, TX as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Austin, TX has the stronger safety profile of the two. Austin, TX has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. El Paso, TX has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Austin, TX has Low flood risk and El Paso, TX has Low flood risk.
Austin, TX is the more walkable neighborhood. Austin, TX scores 53/100 (somewhat walkable) versus El Paso, TX's 21/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Austin, TX has the higher school rating — Austin, TX rates 7.3/10 and El Paso, TX rates 7/10.
| Category | Austin, TX | El Paso, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $570K | $84K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $502 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $87K ✓ Higher income | $14K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 53/100 ✓ More walkable | 21/100 |
| Transit Score | 40/100 ✓ Better transit | 24/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 25/100 |
| Commute | 4 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate ✓ Cleaner air | Poor |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsremote workersstudents | Low-cost urban livingDog lovers looking for rescue opportunitiesPeople with limited commuting options |
Bottom line
For young professionals and remote workers, consider Austin, where you'll get a decent balance of downtown proximity and decent schools, albeit at a steep cost. If budget is your top priority and you're comfortable with high crime risks and limited amenities, El Paso might be a cheaper alternative. However, be aware that it poses significant long-term stability concerns.
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