Moving from Chiang Mai to Boise (2026)

Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 39 for Chiang Mai (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 173% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,572 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
39 โ†’ 105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$390 โ†’ $1,600
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 5.8%
income tax
COL difference
39 โ†’ 105
173% more expensive

Salary needed in Boise to match your Chiang Mai lifestyle

Based on the 173% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Chiang MaiEquivalent in Boise
$40K$109,091
$50K$136,364
$60K$163,636
$75K$204,545
$80K$218,182
$100K$272,727
$120K$327,273
$150K$409,091

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$1,227/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Chiang Mai vs Boise

ExpenseChiang MaiBoise
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,378
1BR rent$390$1,600
Groceries$380$372
Transport$150$45
Utilities$55$145
Internet$20$60
Left after essentials$3,746$2,156

Frequently asked questions

Is Boise cheaper than Chiang Mai?

No. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 39 for Chiang Mai (100 = US average). That's about 173% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Chiang Mai to Boise?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Boise run about $1,572/month more than Chiang Mai. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chiang Mai, you'd need roughly $204,545/year in Boise. 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