Moving from San Jose to Boise (2026)
Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). You'd pay about 44% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,535/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
189105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,600
per month
State tax
9.3%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Boise to match your San Jose lifestyle
Based on the 44% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in San Jose | Equivalent in Boise |
|---|---|
| $40K | $22,222 |
| $50K | $27,778 |
| $60K | $33,333 |
| $75K | $41,667 |
| $80K | $44,444 |
| $100K | $55,556 |
| $120K | $66,667 |
| $150K | $83,333 |
Monthly budget at $75K — San Jose vs Boise
| Expense | San Jose | Boise |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $437 | $372 |
| Transport | $100 | $45 |
| Utilities | $150 | $145 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $402 | $2,156 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise cheaper than San Jose?
Yes. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). That's about 44% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from San Jose to Boise?
On a $75K salary, moving from San Jose to Boise could save roughly $1,535/month on core expenses. That's ~$18,420/year.
What salary do I need in Boise to match my San Jose lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Jose, you'd need roughly $41,667/year in Boise. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boise to San JoseSan Jose vs Boise — full comparisonSan Jose 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