Moving from Bismarck to El Paso (2026)

El Paso has a COL index of 80 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$107/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8780
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150$1,050
per month
State tax
2.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,741
per month

Salary needed in El Paso to match your Bismarck lifestyle

Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BismarckEquivalent in El Paso
$40K$36,782
$50K$45,977
$60K$55,172
$75K$68,966
$80K$73,563
$100K$91,954
$120K$110,345
$150K$137,931

Monthly budget at $75K — Bismarck vs El Paso

ExpenseBismarckEl Paso
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,741
1BR rent$1,150$1,050
Groceries$369$346
Transport$42$40
Utilities$152$175
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,806$3,070

Frequently asked questions

Is El Paso cheaper than Bismarck?

Yes. El Paso has a cost of living index of 80 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Bismarck to El Paso?

On a $75K salary, moving from Bismarck to El Paso could save roughly $107/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,284/year.

What salary do I need in El Paso to match my Bismarck lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Bismarck, you'd need roughly $68,966/year in El Paso. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only