Cost of Living in El Paso County, Colorado
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How El Paso County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
El Paso County ranks #2,861 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in El Paso County, Colorado
Colorado Springs region balanced overall
El Paso County residents spend 22.1% of their income on rent, slightly above Colorado's state average of 20.2% but below many national benchmarks. With a median household income of $87,470 (above the national average of $74,755) and median rent of $1,609, the county offers moderate affordability.
Solid middle ground in state rankings
El Paso County's 22.1% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably in Colorado's mid-tier affordability, above the state average but not among the most burdened counties. The region balances military presence, tech growth, and established communities into reasonably accessible housing.
Cheaper than Denver, comparable to Garfield
El Paso County's $1,609 median rent undercuts Denver ($1,770) and Eagle County ($2,032) while tracking similarly to Garfield County ($1,515). Residents earn less than Denver or Eagle counterparts but benefit from lower absolute housing costs.
Moderate burden on military-influenced incomes
Renters dedicate $1,609 monthly (22.1% of $87,470 income) while homeowners pay $1,698 on a median home value of $431,000. El Paso County's military presence and tech economy support middle-class housing stability better than many comparable markets.
Colorado Springs appeals to mid-career movers
If you're relocating with $80,000–$100,000 in income and seeking lower housing costs than Denver, El Paso County delivers solid value and growing job markets. The region suits military families, tech workers, and those seeking affordability without sacrificing urban amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: El Paso County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in El Paso County is affordable. The median rent is $1,609/month against a median household income of $87,470, putting rent at 22.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in El Paso County pay $1,609/month on average, compared to $1,698/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $64,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $72,771/year. With a median household income of $87,470, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in El Paso County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
El Paso County sits 4% less expensive than Larimer County ($1,677/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in El Paso County
Rent Burden
22.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,041
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.3%
of gross income
The median home in El Paso County may be a stretch
Median home value is $431,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,441 vs. your max of $2,041.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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