Phoenix, AZ vs Boise, ID: 109 vs 112

$1,458/mo ↑ 7%

Median Rent

$1,359/mo ↓ 7%

$77,041/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$81,308/yr ↑ 6%

$381,900 ↓ 16%

Home Value

$456,000 ↑ 19%

$1,430/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,337/mo ↓ 7%

1,624,832

Population

235,701

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Boise, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $99/month cheaper in Boise, saving renters about $1,188/year.

Median household income is $4,267/year higher in Boise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $456,000 in Boise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Boise — common questions

Is Phoenix or Boise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Boise?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Boise it's $1,359/month — a difference of $99/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Boise?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $81,308 in Boise. Median household income is $4,267/year higher in Boise.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Idaho?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Boise?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Boise has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,359/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Boise, ID (2026)

Phoenix

Boise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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