Cost of Living: Boise, ID vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Boise

Idaho
112
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Boise is 22% more expensive than Spokane.

$1,359/mo ↑ 19%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 16%
$81,308/yr ↑ 24%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 19%
$456,000 ↑ 40%
Home Value
$326,200 ↓ 28%
$1,337/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 9%
235,701
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

5.8%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
Sales Tax
6.5%
0.63%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

20.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $218/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $2,616/year.

Median household income is $15,563/year higher in Boise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Idaho's 5.8% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Spokane — common questions

Is Boise or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Boise and Spokane?
Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $218/month.
Which city has higher income, Boise or Spokane?
Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $15,563/year higher in Boise.
How do taxes compare between Idaho and Washington?
Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Boise or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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