Moving from Boise to Melbourne (2026)

Melbourne has a COL index of 110 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 5% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$2,450 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
105 โ†’ 110
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600 โ†’ $1,600
per month
State tax
5.8% โ†’ 45%
income tax
COL difference
105 โ†’ 110
5% more expensive

Salary needed in Melbourne to match your Boise lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BoiseEquivalent in Melbourne
$40K$41,905
$50K$52,381
$60K$62,857
$75K$78,571
$80K$83,810
$100K$104,762
$120K$125,714
$150K$157,143

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$100/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Boise vs Melbourne

ExpenseBoiseMelbourne
Monthly take-home$4,378$3,000
1BR rent$1,600$1,600
Groceries$372$380
Transport$45$150
Utilities$145$130
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$2,156$678

Frequently asked questions

Is Melbourne cheaper than Boise?

No. Melbourne has a cost of living index of 110 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). That's about 5% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Boise to Melbourne?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Melbourne run about $2,450/month more than Boise. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Melbourne to match my Boise lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boise, you'd need roughly $78,571/year in Melbourne. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only