Moving from Boston to Boise (2026)
Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 35% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,541/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,600
per month
State tax
5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Boise to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 35% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Boise |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,926 |
| $50K | $32,407 |
| $60K | $38,889 |
| $75K | $48,611 |
| $80K | $51,852 |
| $100K | $64,815 |
| $120K | $77,778 |
| $150K | $97,222 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Boise
| Expense | Boston | Boise |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $418 | $372 |
| Transport | $90 | $45 |
| Utilities | $185 | $145 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,156 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 35% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Boise?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Boise could save roughly $1,541/month on core expenses. That's ~$18,492/year.
What salary do I need in Boise to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $48,611/year in Boise. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boise to BostonBoston vs Boise — full comparisonBoston cost of livingBoise cost of living
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