Boise, ID vs Santa Maria, CA: 112 vs 137

$1,359/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 36%

$81,308/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 4%

$456,000 ↓ 5%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 5%

$1,337/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 34%

235,701

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $483/month cheaper in Boise, saving renters about $5,796/year.

Median household income is $3,309/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Boise or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Boise is cheaper to live in with an index of 112 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boise and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $483/month.

Which city has higher income, Boise or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $3,309/year higher in Santa Maria.

How do taxes compare between Idaho and California?

Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Boise or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boise, ID vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Boise

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons