Cost of Living: Washington, DC vs Boise, ID (2026)

Washington

District of Columbia
171
VS

Boise

Idaho
112

Washington is 53% more expensive than Boise.

$1,900/mo ↑ 40%
Median Rent
$1,359/mo ↓ 28%
$106,287/yr ↑ 31%
Median Income
$81,308/yr ↓ 24%
$724,600 ↑ 59%
Home Value
$456,000 ↓ 37%
$2,103/mo ↑ 57%
Owner Costs
$1,337/mo ↓ 36%
672,079
Population
235,701

Tax Comparison

10.75%
Income Tax
5.8%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.56%
Property Tax
0.63%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Washington, DC and Boise, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 171 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $541/month cheaper in Boise, saving renters about $6,492/year.

Median household income is $24,979/year higher in Washington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Washington is $724,600 compared to $456,000 in Boise.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Washington vs Boise — common questions

Is Washington or Boise cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Boise is cheaper to live in with an index of 112 compared to 171 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Washington and Boise?
Median rent in Washington is $1,900/month and in Boise it's $1,359/month — a difference of $541/month.
Which city has higher income, Washington or Boise?
Median household income is $106,287 in Washington and $81,308 in Boise. Median household income is $24,979/year higher in Washington.
How do taxes compare between District of Columbia and Idaho?
District of Columbia has 10.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.56% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.
Should I move to Washington or Boise?
It depends on your priorities. Washington has a cost index of 171 with median rent of $1,900/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.
View Washington details → View Boise details →

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