Cost of Living: Boise, ID vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Boise

Idaho
112
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Boise is 20% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,359/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↓ 3%
$81,308/yr ↓ 7%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 8%
$456,000 ↑ 59%
Home Value
$287,500 ↓ 37%
$1,337/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ≈ Same
235,701
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

5.8%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.63%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

20.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,459/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

Idaho has a lower income tax rate, making Boise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Rochester — common questions

Is Boise or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 93 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Boise and Rochester?
Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $43/month.
Which city has higher income, Boise or Rochester?
Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $6,459/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Idaho and Minnesota?
Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Boise or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Boise details → View Rochester details →

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