Boise, ID vs Santa Rosa, CA: 112 vs 172

$1,359/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 53%

$81,308/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 20%

$456,000 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 50%

$1,337/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 59%

235,701

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $725/month cheaper in Boise, saving renters about $8,700/year.

Median household income is $16,102/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Boise or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Boise is cheaper to live in with an index of 112 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boise and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $725/month.

Which city has higher income, Boise or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $16,102/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Boise

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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