Moving from Washington to Boise (2026)
Boise has a COL index of 105 vs 153 for Washington (100 = US average). You'd pay about 31% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Boise to match your Washington lifestyle
Based on the 31% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Washington | Equivalent in Boise |
|---|---|
| $40K | $27,451 |
| $50K | $34,314 |
| $60K | $41,176 |
| $75K | $51,471 |
| $80K | $54,902 |
| $100K | $68,627 |
| $120K | $82,353 |
| $150K | $102,941 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Washington vs Boise
| Expense | Washington | Boise |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,100 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $422 | $372 |
| Transport | $100 | $45 |
| Utilities | $190 | $145 |
| Internet | $75 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $491 | $2,156 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise cheaper than Washington?
Yes. Boise has a cost of living index of 105 vs 153 for Washington (100 = US average). That's about 31% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Washington to Boise?
On a $75K salary, moving from Washington to Boise could save roughly $1,665/month on core expenses. That's ~$19,980/year.
What salary do I need in Boise to match my Washington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Washington, you'd need roughly $51,471/year in Boise. 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