Moving from Boise to Rochester (2026)

Rochester has a COL index of 89 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$236/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10589
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,300
per month
State tax
5.8%6.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,309
per month

Salary needed in Rochester to match your Boise lifestyle

Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BoiseEquivalent in Rochester
$40K$33,905
$50K$42,381
$60K$50,857
$75K$63,571
$80K$67,810
$100K$84,762
$120K$101,714
$150K$127,143

Monthly budget at $75K — Boise vs Rochester

ExpenseBoiseRochester
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,309
1BR rent$1,600$1,300
Groceries$372$376
Transport$45$65
Utilities$145$180
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,156$2,323

Frequently asked questions

Is Rochester cheaper than Boise?

Yes. Rochester has a cost of living index of 89 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Boise to Rochester?

On a $75K salary, moving from Boise to Rochester could save roughly $236/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,832/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boise, you'd need roughly $63,571/year in Rochester. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only