Moving from Chicago to Boise (2026)
Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$401/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
107105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,600
per month
State tax
4.9%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Boise to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Boise |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,252 |
| $50K | $49,065 |
| $60K | $58,879 |
| $75K | $73,598 |
| $80K | $78,505 |
| $100K | $98,131 |
| $120K | $117,757 |
| $150K | $147,196 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Boise
| Expense | Chicago | Boise |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $388 | $372 |
| Transport | $105 | $45 |
| Utilities | $165 | $145 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,156 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Boise?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Boise could save roughly $401/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,812/year.
What salary do I need in Boise to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $73,598/year in Boise. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boise to ChicagoChicago vs Boise — full comparisonChicago 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