Cost of Living in Idaho
Things cost about ▼ 5% less in Idaho than the national average.
What Things Cost in Idaho
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Idaho was one of the great bargains of the American West until about 2018, when an influx of remote workers and relocators from California, Oregon, and Washington discovered what locals had known for years: beautiful landscapes, low crime, good schools, and affordable housing. Boise's median home price roughly doubled between 2018 and 2023, and while growth has moderated, prices have not retreated. The overall cost of living is now essentially at the national average, which feels expensive to longtime Idahoans but remains a bargain for anyone comparing to Portland, Seattle, or the Bay Area.
Idaho at a Glance
Taxes in Idaho
Idaho's state income tax tops out at Up to 5.7%. The combined sales tax averages 6%. Property taxes run about 0.58% of home value, which on a $410,000 median home means roughly $2,378/year.
Cities in Idaho
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Idaho
FAQ About Idaho
Boise's cost of living is now close to the national average, which represents a significant increase from a decade ago when it was firmly below average. Median home prices have roughly doubled since 2018, landing around $430,000. For someone moving from Seattle, Portland, or California cities, Boise still offers savings. For longtime residents or people coming from truly affordable markets, prices feel high. Nampa and Caldwell in the Treasure Valley offer lower prices than Boise proper.
Idaho has a flat income tax rate of 5.695%. This replaced a graduated system that had rates up to 6%. Sales tax is a straightforward 6% with essentially no local additions. Property taxes average about 0.63%. Idaho does tax retirement income, including Social Security benefits for households above certain income thresholds, which makes it less retirement-friendly than some neighboring states.
Coeur d'Alene has become one of the more expensive housing markets in Idaho, with median home prices above the state average due to demand from out-of-state buyers attracted to the lake and mountain scenery. It is pricier than Boise in some zip codes. However, the overall cost of living including groceries, transportation, and services remains near or slightly below the national average. The community attracts retirees and remote workers from more expensive West Coast markets.