The Best El Paso Suburbs: Finding Your New Home Beyond the City Limits

El Paso’s rich history, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor adventures make it one of the best places to live in Texas. But we, of all people, know that city life isn’t for everyone. That’s why many choose to settle in the suburbs instead. Choosing life in the El Paso suburbs often means a lower cost of living, newer and more spacious housing, and more welcoming communities. And thanks to El Paso’s location right along the U.S.-Mexico border, the suburban sprawl doesn’t stop at the Texas state line. Nearby areas around Las Cruces, New Mexico, also offer suburban-style living with easy access to everything El Paso has to offer. And our list covers both sides of the state line.

9 Best El Paso Suburbs and Cities Near El Paso

Living in El Paso — particularly in the suburbs — means family-oriented and relaxed communities, with plenty of activities, outdoor recreation, shopping, and dining not far from the city center. If you’re thinking of moving to the city, consider these top El Paso suburbs and cities that might just match what you’re looking for in a new community.

The area surrounding Mesilla Plaza is a highlight of the suburb, full of restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
(Source: Old Mesilla via Facebook)

1. Mesilla, NM — Best Overall

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Median home sale price: $527,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, dining, shopping, local events
• Commute to El Paso: 45-minute drive

Mesilla was a center of historic events in New Mexico. Today, it’s the No. 1 best suburb to live in one of the best cities in Texas. Even though the community is technically a suburb of Las Cruces, it’s still within an hour of El Paso.

The town's various housing styles can be found in Old Mesilla, located near Mesilla Plaza. The area surrounding Mesilla Plaza is a highlight of the suburb, full of restaurants, art galleries, and shops. Mexican food is served at several establishments, such as Chala’s Wood Fire Grill, which features smoked-in-house meats and freshly-baked bread.

During the first weekend in May, crowds gather in the plaza to celebrate Mesilla’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. Various events are held, and festivities include music and food.

2. Vinton, TX — Best for Foodies & Nature Lovers

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Average home value: $229,100
• Great for: Families, retirees, outdoor recreation, dining
• Commute to El Paso: 21-minute drive

The small suburb of Vinton is one of the best suburbs of El Paso, Texas, located north of the city, offering a slower-paced lifestyle compared to the hustle and bustle of major cities.

Vinton flaunts a variety of natural settings perfect for nature lovers. Some of these include Mariposa Park, which is a great place for picnics and other leisurely activities. The town also has several parks where children can play, like Dr. Howard Applegate Park.

Although it's mainly residential, Vinton offers incredible dining establishments such as the Great American Steakhouse. You can also find eclectic combinations at Vinton’s own Emilianos Pizza & Mexican Food.

3. Clint, TX — Best for Families Overall

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Average home value: $217,300
• Great for: Families, local events, history
• Commute to El Paso: 30-minute drive

Clint is a quaint town that's home to many families. People who live here value the importance of community, with many residents having lived in the area their entire lives.

Fiesta De San Lorenzo brings the entire community together each year at San Lorenzo Catholic Church — a vibrant religious celebration that includes music and food, like turkey legs and enchiladas. Plus, you can sip on some delicious agua frescas. Another holiday tradition that began just a few years ago is the annual Christmas tree lighting celebration, which includes candy bags for children, hot cocoa, cookies, and pictures with Santa for the children.

Santa Teresa has a strong cultural scene and is home to the War Eagles Air Museum, which features aviation and vintage aircraft exhibits.
(Source: New Mexico True via Facebook)

4. Santa Teresa, NM — Best for Outdoor Enthusiasts

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $700
• Average home value: $314,800
• Great for: Families, retirees, outdoor recreation, golfing, cultural activities
• Commute to El Paso: 25-minute drive

Nestled in the southern part of New Mexico, the community of Santa Teresa is known for its small-town charm. This area has quickly become a desirable choice for people looking for a high quality of life and affordable housing. Santa Teresa’s location ensures that it’s a center for international trade and logistics, plus, it serves as a vital link between New Mexico and El Paso.

Surrounded by striking desert landscape, Santa Teresa offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and horseback riding. Residents can also enjoy the nearby White Sands National Park and Franklin Mountains State Park.

This area also has a strong cultural scene and is home to the War Eagles Air Museum, which features aviation and vintage aircraft exhibits.

5. Horizon City, TX — Best for Active Families

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,300
• Average home value: $219,400
• Great for: Families, outdoor recreation, dining
• Commute to El Paso: 30-minute drive

As one of the fastest-growing Texas cities near El Paso, Horizon City is among the best El Paso suburbs to settle down in, known for its beautiful homes featuring primarily newer brick and stucco structures.

Situated in an active community, residents can visit the neighborhood's bright green spaces, like Golden Eagle Park, which includes a splash pad for the kiddos and hiking paths. Residents looking for a good meal can visit one of the many establishments along Horizon Boulevard and Eastlake Boulevard. La Casa Del Mangu Dominican Restaurant & Bar is a local staple serving up classic Dominican foods, like fried meat and mofongo.

6. Canutillo, TX — Best for Commuters

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $750
• Average home value: $222,800
• Great for: Families, young professionals, shopping, dining, wine tastings
• Commute to El Paso: 20-minute drive

Only 20 minutes from El Paso, Canutillo is one of the best places close to El Paso, TX, that has an easy commute to the city. An interesting fact about this suburb is that the Rio Grande divides it right down the middle. Canutillo has various homes that date back to the 1940s, with several newer Craftsman and Spanish Revival homes that reside in the community.

Residents can find dining and shopping along Talbot Avenue and Doniphan Drive. Maracas is a Puerto Rican Restaurant that specializes in serving sandwiches like Cubans and tripletas. Victoria’s Mexican Grill, on the other hand, is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a steak dish.

Head to local wineries, including La Vina Winery — the oldest operating winery in New Mexico. Guests enjoy delicious wine tastings and a host of fun festivals and events, such as the Harvest Wine Festival and the Wicked Wine Run.

Located in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces offers a tight-knit community vibe, outdoor activities, and a strong arts and culture scene.
(Source: City of Las Cruces via Facebook)

7. Las Cruces, NM — Best Suburb for Retirees

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,050
• Average home value: $288,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, outdoor recreation, art activities
• Commute to El Paso: 50-minute drive

Located in southern New Mexico, Las Cruces is one of the best cities near El Paso that offers a tight-knit community vibe, outdoor activities, and a strong arts and culture scene. (Being ranked No. 2 on Niche’s list for Best Suburbs in the El Paso Area doesn’t hurt either.)

In addition to mountain biking and hiking, all within the suburb's limits, you can take a brief drive away and explore the beautiful Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument and enjoy the scenic nature.

Art galleries that showcase the work of local artists who are influenced by the region's desert landscape can be found all over town. Some of these include the Trails End Gallery and the Mesquite Art Gallery.

8. San Elizario, TX — Best Suburb for Spooky

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
• Average home value: $175,200
• Great for: Families, young professionals, outdoor recreation, local events
• Commute to El Paso: 30-minute drive

Not far from Clint on the U.S.-Mexico border, the suburb of San Elizario is one of the best El Paso suburbs that treasures its rich history throughout the years, and offers more affordable home prices compared to other El Paso neighborhoods. The community is popular among families, with plenty of outdoor recreation and popular community events.

Local residents can find a sense of relaxation at the San Elizario Placita, which offers various public gatherings and performances along with walking paths surrounded by beautiful trees. The Pete Herrera Library, on the other hand, is a great way for kids to stay engaged through reading, learning, and other library events.

Many of San Elizario’s annual events are considered some of the most popular things to do in El Paso and bring in visitors from nearby communities. The Luminaria Festival, which takes place in December, is filled with over 2,000 lit luminarias and includes a nativity and traditional folklorico performances to enjoy. Those who enjoy spooky festivities can attend the Spirit Walk of Old San Elizario, hosted by the Los Portales Museum, which explores the local history and the legend of Billy the Kid.

9. Socorro, TX — Best for a Fresh Start

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $825
• Average home value: $204,200
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, housing variety, outdoor recreation, dining, shopping
• Commute to El Paso: 20-minute drive

Socorro is located right in the heart of El Paso County, which is one of the best places near El Paso, TX, known for its rural feel and tight-knit community. The area has undergone a remarkable transformation. Socorro offers a wide selection of home styles and sizes, with Spanish Revival and stucco ranch homes making up the majority of neighborhoods. The homes are typically accompanied by fences for added safety. The various housing options, including new and old builds, make it one of the best El Paso suburbs for any walk of life.

Socorro offers many outdoor recreation opportunities, including the unique El Paso Mission Trail, which is a nine-mile-long journey that includes stops at several historic missions.

One of Socorro's most popular restaurants is the Dusty Tap, a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that has great cocktails, brisket, wings, tacos, and more. For a hands-on cultural experience, check out Casa Ortiz, which includes an art gallery to explore and a sculpture garden.

El Paso Suburbs — FAQs

Q: What is the best area in El Paso to live?
A: According to Niche, Mesilla ranks as the best El Paso suburb.

Q: What towns are near El Paso?
A: Some of the closest towns to El Paso include Vinton, Canutillo, and Socorro.

Q: Is El Paso, TX, urban or suburban?
A: El Paso is a mix of urban and suburban, with more suburban areas on the outskirts.

Q: What is the safest part of El Paso?
A: San Ysidro and Horizon City are some of the safest El Paso suburbs.

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Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe, Zumper, and Zillow; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}