Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Boise, ID (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Boise

Idaho
112

Baltimore is 25% cheaper than Boise.

$1,290/mo ↓ 5%
Median Rent
$1,359/mo ↑ 5%
$59,623/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$81,308/yr ↑ 36%
$219,300 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$456,000 ↑ 108%
$1,333/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,337/mo ≈ Same
577,193
Population
235,701

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.8%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.63%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Boise, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $69/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $828/year.

Median household income is $21,685/year higher in Boise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $456,000 in Boise.

Maryland has a lower income tax rate, making Baltimore slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Boise — common questions

Is Baltimore or Boise cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Boise?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Boise it's $1,359/month — a difference of $69/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Boise?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $81,308 in Boise. Median household income is $21,685/year higher in Boise.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Idaho?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Boise?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Boise has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,359/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Boise details →

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