Moving from Boise to St. Paul (2026)
St. Paul has a COL index of 97 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in St. Paul to match your Boise lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boise | Equivalent in St. Paul |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,952 |
| $50K | $46,190 |
| $60K | $55,429 |
| $75K | $69,286 |
| $80K | $73,905 |
| $100K | $92,381 |
| $120K | $110,857 |
| $150K | $138,571 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boise vs St. Paul
| Expense | Boise | St. Paul |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,122 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,500 |
| Groceries | $372 | $384 |
| Transport | $45 | $95 |
| Utilities | $145 | $195 |
| Internet | $60 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $2,156 | $1,885 |
Frequently asked questions
Is St. Paul cheaper than Boise?
Yes. St. Paul has a cost of living index of 97 vs 105 for Boise (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boise to St. Paul?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Paul run about $15/month more than Boise. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in St. Paul to match my Boise lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boise, you'd need roughly $69,286/year in St. Paul. 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