Boise, ID vs Des Moines, IA: 112 vs 70

$1,359/mo ↑ 29%

Median Rent

$1,054/mo ↓ 22%

$81,308/yr ↑ 27%

Median Income

$63,966/yr ↓ 21%

$456,000 ↑ 148%

Home Value

$183,700 ↓ 60%

$1,337/mo ↑ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,137/mo ↓ 15%

235,701

Population

212,464

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $305/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $3,660/year.

Median household income is $17,342/year higher in Boise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Iowa has a lower income tax rate, making Des Moines slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Boise or Des Moines cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boise and Des Moines?

Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $305/month.

Which city has higher income, Boise or Des Moines?

Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $17,342/year higher in Boise.

How do taxes compare between Idaho and Iowa?

Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.

Should I move to Boise or Des Moines?

It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with rent of $1,054/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boise, ID vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Boise

Des Moines

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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