Moving from Boulder to Boise (2026)
Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$778/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
132105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,300$1,600
per month
State tax
4.4%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Boise to match your Boulder lifestyle
Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boulder | Equivalent in Boise |
|---|---|
| $40K | $31,818 |
| $50K | $39,773 |
| $60K | $47,727 |
| $75K | $59,659 |
| $80K | $63,636 |
| $100K | $79,545 |
| $120K | $95,455 |
| $150K | $119,318 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boulder vs Boise
| Expense | Boulder | Boise |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $2,300 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $414 | $372 |
| Transport | $80 | $45 |
| Utilities | $138 | $145 |
| Internet | $68 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,466 | $2,156 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise cheaper than Boulder?
Yes. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boulder to Boise?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boulder to Boise could save roughly $778/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,336/year.
What salary do I need in Boise to match my Boulder lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boulder, you'd need roughly $59,659/year in Boise. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boise to BoulderBoulder vs Boise — full comparisonBoulder 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