What Are the Safest El Paso Neighborhoods for Renters in 2025? (Crime & Rent Data)

El Paso remains one of the safest big cities in the country, and 2025 crime data shows continued improvement. Violent crime has dropped by more than 67% since 2020, while property crime is down nearly 53%, making it the sharpest decline among U.S. cities tracked in the latest reports.

Border city comparisons also tell a similar story. El Paso’s violent crime rate sits at roughly 5.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, about in line with the U.S. average.

That said, citywide statistics can blur the differences between neighborhoods. According to CrimeGrade.org, El Paso ranks in the 12th percentile for overall safety, which means it’s safer than about 12% of U.S. cities but less safe than the majority.

When looking at violent crime specifically, the city ranks in the 18th percentile, showing that while crime has dropped, some areas still carry higher risks. Risk levels can vary significantly across the city, from a one-in-70 chance of being a victim of violent crime in certain southwest neighborhoods to as low as one in 323 in safer areas on the east side.

Even with those variations, El Paso continues to outperform expectations. Importantly, the city’s reputation for safety isn’t new. In 2020, El Paso was ranked as the fifth-safest large U.S. city in the country.

El Paso Crime Trends in 2025

• El Paso’s total crime index sits at 31.91, just under the U.S. average of 33.37. Its violent crime rate is slightly higher than average at 15.59, compared to 13.84 nationally.
• Violent crime is down 67.1% and property crime has dropped 52.9%, marking the steepest improvement of any large U.S. city.
• Crime costs El Paso roughly $536 million annually, or about $570 per resident, which is above the U.S. average.

Despite short-term bumps, El Paso’s long-term trajectory remains positive, with overall crime levels still far lower than they were a decade ago. Renters benefit most by focusing on neighborhood-level safety, where differences can be significant.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

How Safer Neighborhoods Compare to Citywide Averages

The citywide average crime rate, or crime index, stands at approximately 45.9 crimes per 1,000 residents, placing El Paso in the 12th percentile for safety, meaning it’s safer than 12% of U.S. cities. However, renters in El Paso who put safety at the top of their list will find meaningful relief in neighborhoods where crime rates fall well below the citywide numbers on both violent and property fronts.

Eastern neighborhoods consistently outperform the city average. Residents there have a one-in-35 chance of becoming a victim of crime, substantially lower than areas in the southwest, where your odds slip to one in seven—that’s five times more. This stark neighborhood-level contrast underscores how much safer some areas are compared to the city as a whole.

Safer neighborhoods like North Hills East, Castner Heights, and Horizon City offer lower-density stability and safety, with lower crime grades across the board.

How We Identified El Paso’s Safest Neighborhoods

To determine the safest neighborhoods in El Paso for renters in 2025, we paired the latest crime statistics with rental pricing data. Our process was designed to go beyond raw numbers and surface neighborhoods that feel genuinely secure day to day.

Each neighborhood’s violent and property crime rates were compared against both citywide and national benchmarks. We prioritized crime per capita, not just total incidents, to account for the real lived experience of renters. From there, we cross-referenced 2025 Apartment List rent data to highlight areas that offer not only peace of mind but also fair pricing relative to the El Paso average.

We also considered lifestyle factors renters care about most, including walkability, school performance, and access to everyday conveniences. The result is a list of neighborhoods where affordability meets safety, backed by data rather than guesswork.

Data Sources and Time Frames

Our El Paso rankings draw from a multisource dataset that combines the freshest crime and rent data available:

• El Paso Police Department open-data portal (January 2024 through June 2025).
• FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) crime database (finalized 2023 figures).
• Apartment List rent estimates (Q2 2025, based on thousands of active El Paso listings).

Ranking Factors (Crime Rate, Rent, Amenities, Commute)

To fairly compare neighborhoods, we weighted each factor as follows.

Factor Weights

• Crime rate (50%): Based on violent and property crime per 1,000 residents; safer neighborhoods scored higher.
• Rent affordability (20%): Average one-bedroom rent compared to the citywide one-bedroom average ($1,052 as of September 2025). Lower rents relative to the average improved scores.
• Amenities (20%): A composite score including:
  • Parks per square mile (0 to 10 scale).
  • Walk score (0 to 100 scale).
  • Grocery stores within one mile (0 to 5 count).
• Commute (10%): Average peak-hour drive time to Downtown El Paso; shorter commutes earned higher marks.

Each neighborhood included in this guide scored above the El Paso average across most or all of these categories.

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

The crime-to-rent ratio measures the number of reported crimes per $1,000 of average annual rent. A lower ratio means you’re getting more safety for every dollar spent on rent.

For example, if a neighborhood has 200 reported crimes in a year, and its average rent is $1,000 per month ($12,000 annually), the ratio comes out to 16.7 crimes per $1,000 of rent.

This measure is especially useful for budget-minded renters. Instead of only chasing the cheapest unit or the safest ZIP code, the ratio helps balance both, showing you which neighborhoods deliver the best value in terms of affordability and peace of mind.

8 Safest El Paso Neighborhoods for Renters

Searching for a safe spot to settle in El Paso? These eight neighborhoods combine below-average crime rates, affordable rental options, and strong community ties. Backed by 2025 data on violent and property crime, rent trends, and local safety efforts, they stand out as the best choices for renters who want peace of mind without breaking the bank.

The lower the ratio, the safer the neighborhood overall.

North Hills East

Rentals with views, quiet streets, and low crime at a fair price

• Violent crime: 2.381/1,000
• Property crime: 13.580/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,195
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.11

North Hills East is one of El Paso’s safest and most peaceful enclaves. Nestled against the Franklin Mountains, tree-lined streets and cul-de-sacs create a calm, residential atmosphere where families and long-term renters settle in for stability.

Local schools rank above average, and neighborhood parks give residents plenty of green space without the city noise. Commutes to Fort Bliss and Northeast El Paso shopping centers are short, adding convenience to the calm.

Morningside Heights

Walkable charm near Downtown

• Violent crime: 3.315/1,000
• Property crime: 17.030/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $559
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 3.03

For renters who want affordable living close to the heart of El Paso, Morningside Heights delivers. This neighborhood balances older homes with semiwalkable streets, giving residents quick access to Downtown’s restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Community-led safety initiatives and neighborhood watch groups play an active role in reducing crime. While property crime sits slightly above some suburbs, the incredibly low rent keeps the overall crime-to-rent ratio balanced for cost-conscious renters. It’s a strong option for students, young professionals, or anyone prioritizing location without overspending.

Album

Family-friendly living at the city median

• Violent crime: 4.054/1,000
• Property crime: 23.860/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $957
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 2.43

Album sits right in the middle of El Paso in terms of rental pricing, making it a practical choice for families and commuters alike. Schools, parks, and shopping centers are all nearby, giving the neighborhood a self-contained feel.

While crime is slightly higher here than in northern areas like North Hills, the community presence is strong, and the cost of living remains comfortably within reach for most renters. For those who want stability at a fair price point, Album offers a blend of convenience and accessibility.

Horizon City

Suburban space just outside El Paso

• Violent crime: 4.744/1,000
• Property crime: 17.360/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,319
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.40

Though technically outside El Paso city limits, Horizon City is one of the safest and fastest-growing suburbs in El Paso County for renters. Wide-open streets, affordable housing, and strong community policing keep crime lower than in many parts of central El Paso.

Families are especially drawn here for the larger rental homes and reputable schools. While commutes into Downtown can take longer, the tradeoff is extra space, quiet neighborhoods, and a suburban lifestyle that feels removed from city congestion. This neighborhood’s crime-to-rent ratio shows renters are getting solid safety value for the price.

Los Paseos

Affordable living with suburban comfort

• Violent crime: 4.553/1,000
• Property crime: 26.240/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,041
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 2.47

Los Paseos offers renters a budget-friendly option with easy access to shopping, schools, and neighborhood parks. While property crime rates trend higher than in some parts of Northeast El Paso, most incidents are nonviolent, and the area maintains a strong community feel.

Families appreciate the proximity to amenities without the cost of central El Paso neighborhoods, while commuters benefit from relatively short drives across the east side of the city. For renters who want a practical balance between affordability and everyday convenience, Los Paseos provides just that.

Pebble Hills North

East side accessibility with room to grow

• Violent crime: 4.553/1,000
• Property crime: 26.240/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $913
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 2.81

Pebble Hills North is a residential neighborhood in East El Paso known for its mix of established homes and new developments. Renters are drawn to its family-friendly vibe, with schools, retail centers, and dining options nearby.

Crime metrics mirror those in Los Paseos, though residents here often note a strong police presence and active neighborhood watch groups working to reduce incidents. With its accessible rent and growing infrastructure, Pebble Hills North is a practical choice for families looking to settle in a community-oriented pocket of the city.

San Elizario

Historic charm with affordable rentals

• Violent crime: 5.215/1,000
• Property crime: 15.860/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $870
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 2.02

San Elizario combines small-town character with easy access to East El Paso. Its historic district, known for preserved mission architecture and cultural landmarks, gives the neighborhood a unique identity within the metro area.

While violent crime rates are slightly above city averages, property crime remains relatively low. Affordable rent makes San Elizario especially appealing for families and individuals who want more space at a lower cost while still staying within reach of the city’s job centers.

Castner Heights

Established neighborhood with affordable pricing

• Violent crime: 4.457/1,000
• Property crime: 26.170/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $801
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 3.19

Castner Heights is a longtime El Paso favorite for renters who want a balance of affordability and community history. Located in Northeast El Paso near Fort Bliss, the neighborhood features older but well-kept homes, local parks, and schools that serve military and civilian families.

While property crime rates are slightly elevated compared to others on this list, some residents note that the tight-knit community feel offsets safety concerns. With rents sitting below the city average, Castner Heights remains a reliable and budget-friendly choice.

Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

Average Rent Differences Across Ranked Neighborhoods

Among the safest El Paso neighborhoods, rent varies but not nearly as dramatically as in larger metros. A one-bedroom in North Hills East, one of the city’s pricier and safest areas, averages about $1,195, while Morningside Heights, also noted for safety, comes in closer to $559. That’s more than a $600 monthly gap, even though both neighborhoods rank well for security and livability.

Still, higher rent doesn’t always guarantee lower crime. Some of El Paso’s more affordable safe neighborhoods, like San Elizario, report competitive safety scores despite modest housing costs.

Average Commute Time to Downtown, Fort Bliss, and the Medical Center

We calculated El Paso commute times (2025) from each of the ranked safe neighborhoods to three of the city’s biggest employment hubs: Downtown El Paso, Fort Bliss, and the University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC). Drive times reflect typical weekday traffic between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., while transit estimates are based on Sun Metro route data.

From North Hills East

• Downtown El Paso: 20 minutes via US-54 W
• Downtown El Paso: 1 hour and 46 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 16 minutes via US-54 W
• UMC: 16 minutes via US-54 W

From Morningside Heights

• Downtown El Paso: 12 minutes via I-10 W
• Downtown El Paso: 37 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 8 minutes via Cassidy Rd
• UMC: 9 minutes via Gateway S Blvd

From Album

• Downtown El Paso: 20 minutes via I-10 W
• Downtown El Paso: 1 hour and 10 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 18 minutes via Montana Ave
• UMC: 16 minutes via I-10 W

From Horizon City

• Downtown El Paso: 30 minutes via I-10 W
• Downtown El Paso: N/A via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 35 minutes via I-10 W
• UMC: 26 minutes via I-10 W

From Los Paseos

• Downtown El Paso: 26 minutes via I-10 W
• Downtown El Paso: 1 hour and 16 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 28 minutes via Montana Ave
• UMC: 22 minutes via I-10 W

From Pebble Hills North

• Downtown El Paso: 24 minutes I-10 W
• Downtown El Paso: 56 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 20 minutes via Montana Ave
• UMC: 20 minutes via I-10 W

From San Elizario

• Downtown El Paso: 35 minutes via Socorro Rd and TX-375 Loop W
• Downtown El Paso: N/A via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 35 minutes via Socorro Rd and TX-375 Loop W
• UMC: 35 minutes via Socorro Rd and I-10 W

From Castner Heights

• Downtown El Paso: 16 minutes via US-54 W
• Downtown El Paso: 1 hour and 5 minutes via public transit
• Fort Bliss: 14 minutes via US-54 W
• UMC: 14 minutes via US-54 W

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Safety isn’t one-size-fits-all in El Paso. Some renters want quiet cul-de-sacs and family-friendly blocks, while others need nightlife, walkability, or easy commutes to Fort Bliss or downtown. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice security to get the lifestyle you want.

Transit-Friendly Yet Safe Areas If You Don’t Own a Car

If you're car-free but still want peace of mind, these neighborhoods offer strong safety scores and reliable Sun Metro access:

• Sunset Heights (walk score 78)
  • Key routes: Sun Metro 10, 15, 34; fast access to Downtown and the University of Texas at El Paso.
• Five Points (walk score 77)
  • Key routes: Sun Metro 33, 50; affordable rentals with direct routes to central job hubs.
• Kern Place (walk score 55)
  • Key routes: Sun Metro 14, 18; nightlife and café culture with easy transit to the University of Texas at El Paso and Downtown.

These areas also support first-last-mile options, like scooters and rideshare, making short hops safer and more convenient.

Up-and-Coming Affordable Pockets to Watch

You don’t need a luxury ZIP code to feel safe. Several emerging El Paso neighborhoods are showing steady crime declines and remain renter-friendly:

• Cielo Vista North: New retail growth and multiple years of improving crime stats.
• Eastwood Heights: Affordable apartments paired with strong schools and an active patrol presence.
• Timberwolf: Expanding East El Paso development plus more community safety investment.

Key indicators include:

• New mixed-use construction (housing and retail).
• Consistent multiyear drops in crime data.
• Increased lighting, cameras, and neighborhood watch programs.

Check Block-Level Safety Before Signing a Lease

Not all streets are equal, even in safe neighborhoods. Before committing, renters should:

1. Search their address on the El Paso Police Department crime map.
2. Scan safety reports on apps like Nextdoor.
3. Visit at night to check for working lights and overall comfort.
4. Ask landlords about security features, such as smart locks, cameras, or motion-sensor lighting.

Doing your homework upfront helps you avoid surprises and gives you real confidence in your new place.

How Apartment List’s Quiz Matches You Faster

Finding the right apartment in El Paso doesn’t have to feel like a second job. The AI-powered Apartment List quiz takes under 90 seconds and factors in what actually matters—including your budget, commute, and safety preferences—to surface listings tailored to you.

Instead of scrolling through hundreds of places that don’t fit, you’ll get a curated set of options that check your boxes. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Frequently Asked Questions About El Paso’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which safe El Paso neighborhoods offer the lowest average rent?

Morningside Heights and San Elizario stand out for renters on a budget. One-bedroom rents come in well below $900, while crime rates are significantly lower than in other central neighborhoods.

Are there safe areas close to Downtown El Paso?

Yes, Sunset Heights and Kern Place both sit just minutes from Downtown while maintaining crime rates around the citywide average. These neighborhoods also offer strong walkability and quick commutes to the University of Texas at El Paso and the University Medical Center of El Paso.

How current is the crime data in this guide?

All crime data is based on reports from January 2024 through June 2025, sourced from the El Paso Police Department, CrimeGrade.org, and the FBI NIBRS database.

What online tools help monitor neighborhood safety?

The El Paso Police Department CompStat portal, the Citizen app, and platforms like SpotCrime allow renters to track local incidents in real time, helping you vet neighborhoods before touring.