Cuffing season is officially underway across Texas. The temperatures are dropping which means it’s time to find someone to cuddle up with to keep warm while you watch Netflix; at least for the winter season.
If you’re not entire sure what cuffing season is, it’s real simple: it’s basically when single people settle into temporary relationships to get through the winter. Some relationships rarely survive to spring break; others can last awhile! Cuffing season can mean something different for everyone, but, the whole point is to have someone to just keep you warm for the winter!
But if you’re like me, you’re ready to go at it alone, and I like to think that it’s not my fault entirely, it’s where I live!
According to a new national study from rental site Zumper, El Paso ranked #62 among the best U.S. cities for singles in 2025, way behind Austin, which snagged a top-10 spot at #10.
The Study Behind The Swipe
Zumper analyzed 100 of the most populated U.S. cities, looking at how each stacked up for singles based on factors like affordability, social life, job market, and dating pool size.
The big winner this year? St. Louis, Missouri. The Midwest city came out on top thanks to low rent prices (about $1,000 a month for a 1-bedroom), strong job opportunities, and the fact that nearly half its population is single.
Meanwhile, El Paso’s #62 ranking puts us squarely in the middle of the pack- not terrible, but not exactly “love is in the air” either.
Why El Paso Struggles At Love Season
Sure, El Paso has charm, sunsets, and a million great date spots, but compared to other big Texas cities, it’s a little harder to mingle. Our social scene leans cozy and local, not “speed-dating downtown.”
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And while affordability and friendly vibes score high, our smaller single population and fewer nightlife options bring us down. Translation: great place for a quiet night out, not so great for finding “the one” before winter hits.
Still, El Paso’s got something no ranking can measure- heart. From margaritas at Carlos & Mickey’s to concerts at the Plaza Theatre, this city knows how to make romance happen, even if it takes a little bit more effort.
Texas Cities Take The Stage
While El Paso might not be the go-to spot for cuffing season, Austin fared much better at #10 nationwide, proving that Texas knows how to keep things interesting.
El Paso might not be a hotbed for cuffing season romance, but that doesn’t mean love is off the table. It just means you’ll need a little more patience, and maybe a good playlist for the drive to Austin.
Until then, single El Pasoans can take comfort in knowing one thing: we may not rank high for romance, but we’ll always rank #1 in heart, hospitality, and homemade salsa.
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