The Border City
El Paso, Texas is the second largest of the American towns that border Mexico. The metropolitan area of some 2 million people is actually bi-national. Though the border forms a very distinct line, movement from the American to Mexican side of this metropolitan area is common. El Paso serves as the seat of El Paso County.
Most of the tourists who visit El Paso are actually headed for Mexico. The town is a popular crossing spot for vacationers, tourists and those who want to purchase goods and services from Mexican vendors. The proximity to the border hasn’t always been a blessing, though. There have been constant battles as authorities seek to keep a lid on specific activities that may be illegal in the U.S. but accepted (or at least rampant) in Mexico. Alcohol during the Prohibition became a particularly big problem.
The area was first inhabited by the Suma and Manso Indians, and later by Spanish explorers. Over the years, it’s been the scene of some serious conflicts and became known as wild town during the cowboy days. Many consider El Paso of today a rough and rowdy town. The area has overcome that stigma, at least to some degree.
Fast Facts
- Location: El Paso is located at the extreme western edge of Texas and borders Mexico.
- Population: 563,662
- Housing units: 196,663
- Land area: 249 square miles
- Persons per square mile: 2,263
- Average annual rainfall: 8.1 inches per year
- Elevation: 3762 feet above sea level
- Information provided by the U.S. Census Bureau
Do you need to start a new business in Texas? Texas corporation from $89 + State fee.