Moving from Idaho Falls to Houston (2026)

Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 87 for Idaho Falls (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 9% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$113 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
87 โ†’ 95
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100 โ†’ $1,350
per month
State tax
5.8% โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
87 โ†’ 95
9% more expensive

Salary needed in Houston to match your Idaho Falls lifestyle

Based on the 9% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Idaho FallsEquivalent in Houston
$40K$43,678
$50K$54,598
$60K$65,517
$75K$81,897
$80K$87,356
$100K$109,195
$120K$131,034
$150K$163,793

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$330/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Idaho Falls vs Houston

ExpenseIdaho FallsHouston
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,741
1BR rent$1,100$1,350
Groceries$365$357
Transport$35$90
Utilities$142$175
Internet$65$65
Left after essentials$2,671$2,704

Frequently asked questions

Is Houston cheaper than Idaho Falls?

No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 87 for Idaho Falls (100 = US average). That's about 9% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Idaho Falls to Houston?

On a $75K salary, moving from Idaho Falls to Houston saves roughly $113/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,356/year.

What salary do I need in Houston to match my Idaho Falls lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Idaho Falls, you'd need roughly $81,897/year in Houston. 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