Moving from Fresno to El Paso (2026)

El Paso has a COL index of 80 vs 99 for Fresno (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$438/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9980
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$1,050
per month
State tax
9.3%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,741
per month

Salary needed in El Paso to match your Fresno lifestyle

Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in FresnoEquivalent in El Paso
$40K$32,323
$50K$40,404
$60K$48,485
$75K$60,606
$80K$64,646
$100K$80,808
$120K$96,970
$150K$121,212

Monthly budget at $75K — Fresno vs El Paso

ExpenseFresnoEl Paso
Monthly take-home$4,159$4,741
1BR rent$1,450$1,050
Groceries$380$346
Transport$72$40
Utilities$142$175
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,050$3,070

Frequently asked questions

Is El Paso cheaper than Fresno?

Yes. El Paso has a cost of living index of 80 vs 99 for Fresno (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.

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

On a $75K salary, moving from Fresno to El Paso could save roughly $438/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,256/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fresno, you'd need roughly $60,606/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