Moving from Montgomery to Idaho Falls (2026)

Idaho Falls has a COL index of 87 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 7% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$38 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8187
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,050$1,100
per month
State tax
5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Idaho Falls to match your Montgomery lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MontgomeryEquivalent in Idaho Falls
$40K$42,963
$50K$53,704
$60K$64,444
$75K$80,556
$80K$85,926
$100K$107,407
$120K$128,889
$150K$161,111

Monthly budget at $75K — Montgomery vs Idaho Falls

ExpenseMontgomeryIdaho Falls
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,378
1BR rent$1,050$1,100
Groceries$353$365
Transport$38$35
Utilities$170$142
Internet$58$65
Left after essentials$2,759$2,671

Frequently asked questions

Is Idaho Falls cheaper than Montgomery?

No. Idaho Falls has a cost of living index of 87 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). That's about 7% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Idaho Falls run about $38/month more than Montgomery. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Montgomery, you'd need roughly $80,556/year in Idaho Falls. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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