Idaho · Population 235,701 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Boise
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Boise is more expensive than the national average. Higher housing costs are typically the primary driver. With a cost index of 112 (where 100 equals the national median), Boise residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,359/month while earning a median household income of $81,308/year.
The median home value in Boise, ID is $456,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,337 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.
Idaho has a moderate income tax rate of 5.8%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 0.63% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Boise.
Common questions about living costs in Boise
Compare the cost of living in Boise, ID with 299 other major U.S. cities