Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho is a hidden gem that boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and a lifestyle that balances outdoor adventure with small-town charm. However, as more people discover the beauty and appeal of the Gem State, understanding the cost of living in Idaho has become increasingly important. With housing prices on the rise and various expenses to consider, it’s essential to know what to expect if you’re considering moving to Idaho. Whether you’re eyeing a home in Eagle or a modern apartment in Boise, let’s break down the cost of living in Idaho.
Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Idaho
Housing in Idaho is refreshingly affordable, especially compared to its neighboring states. The average rent in Idaho is about $1,430, comfortably below the national average rent of $1,645. Even in its most popular capital city Boise, rents generally fall under the national average, offering a solid mix of affordability and urban amenities. For those looking for even lower costs, smaller towns in Idaho like Pocatello and Idaho Falls feature even lower rental prices, making them attractive options for budget-conscious residents. Keep in mind, there are some pricey and upscale suburbs in Idaho, but overall the mix of affordable urban and small-town living makes the cost of living in Idaho an even better deal for many.
ID housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices
| City in Idaho | 1 Bed Avg. Rent | 2 Bed Avg. Rent | Median Home Sale Price |
| National Average | $1,495 | $1,725 | $439,000 |
| Boise | $1,430 | $1,620 | $520,000 |
| Caldwell | $1,445 | $1,810 | $388,000 |
| Coeur d’Alene | $1,550 | $1,740 | $815,000 |
| Eagle | $1,775 | $2,290 | $748,000 |
| Idaho Falls | $1,165 | $1,580 | $375,000 |
| Meridian | $1,620 | $1,630 | $542,500 |
| Moscow | $745 | $945 | $530,000 |
| Nampa | $1,375 | $1,510 | $415,000 |
| Pocatello | $995 | $1,150 | $335,000 |
| Twin Falls | $1,375 | $1,570 | $365,000 |
Housing costs in popular cities in Idaho
Boise
Boise, Idaho’s bustling capital, balances urban amenities with easy access to nature, making it a desirable choice for new residents. While Boise’s average rent of $1,430 for a one-bedroom apartment sits right at Idaho’s state average, a two-bedroom at $1,620 inches closer to the national rental average of $1,645. Home prices in Boise reflect its popularity, with a median sale price around $520,000, noticeably above the national median of $439,000. Boise’s thriving downtown scene, combined with its quality of life, makes it worth the investment for those seeking an active, dynamic place to live.
Coeur d’Alene
Known for its stunning lake views and outdoor recreation, Coeur d’Alene has become one of Idaho’s pricier areas. The average rent here is higher than in Boise, with a one-bedroom averaging $1,550 and a two-bedroom at $1,740—well above Idaho’s average rent of $1,430. The housing market is also robust, with the median home price at an impressive $815,000, driven by demand for scenic waterfront properties and the city’s mountain-lake charm. Coeur d’Alene is an ideal choice for those prioritizing scenery and lifestyle or looking for a vacation home, though it comes with a higher price tag.
Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls offers a more affordable cost of living in Idaho, especially appealing for those looking for a small-city feel with big-city conveniences nearby. With one-bedroom rents averaging $1,165 and two-bedrooms at $1,580, Idaho Falls sits comfortably below national rent averages. Housing here is also more accessible, with a median home price of $375,000—significantly less than the national median, making it an attractive option for homebuyers seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. Idaho Falls’ proximity to Yellowstone and the Teton Mountain Range is another bonus for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pocatello
Pocatello provides some of the most affordable housing in Idaho, with average rents well below both the national and Idaho state averages. A one-bedroom goes for around $995, while a two-bedroom averages $1,150, making Pocatello an excellent choice for budget-conscious renters. The median home sale price here is approximately $335,000, making homeownership more attainable. Known for its quiet neighborhoods and low-key lifestyle, Pocatello is a great choice for those looking for a relaxed, affordable way of life within Idaho’s rich natural landscape.
Low utility costs help keep Idaho’s cost of living more affordable
Utilities in Idaho tend to be reasonably priced, adding to the state’s overall affordability. Monthly costs for essentials—electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage—typically come in lower than the national average, benefiting Idaho residents with smaller bills to cover. Idaho’s moderate climate helps keep heating and cooling costs more manageable, especially compared to states with more extreme temperatures. However, rural areas and mountainous regions may experience slightly higher costs, especially for heating in winter. Internet services vary based on location, with urban areas like Boise and Idaho Falls offering more competitive pricing and options compared to rural zones. Overall, Idaho’s utility expenses align well with the state’s reputation for a lower cost of living.
Utility bill comparisons: Idaho cities vs. nationwide average
| Monthly Energy Bill | Monthly Phone Bill | Comparison to National Avg. | |
| National Average | $200.07 | $193.54 | |
| Boise | $148.83 | $177.85 | -19% less |
| Idaho Falls | $173.02 | $164.06 | -16% less |
| Twin Falls | $171.47 | $178.64 | -12% less |
Idaho ranks in the top 3 states with the lowest grocery prices
Grocery costs in Idaho are notably lower than the national average, making it one of the more affordable states for filling up your pantry. In fact, Idaho ranks as the third-lowest for grocery expenses in the U.S., with monthly costs running around 20% less than the national average. Whether you’re shopping for fresh produce, dairy, or pantry staples, Idaho’s grocery prices provide significant savings compared to most other states. It’s another reason why Idaho’s cost of living is appealing, especially as other living expenses like housing and utilities remain competitive too.
Transportation costs in Idaho are manageable
When it comes to transportation costs, Idaho is fairly in line with the national average, though a bit more expensive at the pump. Gas prices in Idaho average $3.28 per gallon, compared to the national average of $3.10. While you won’t encounter tolls here, car owners will need to consider additional expenses like vehicle registration, which can vary by county, as well as maintenance costs—especially since many areas are spread out and driving distances tend to be longer. Insurance costs are generally lower than national average costs, but still depend on factors like your driving history and location. Public transportation options are limited, particularly outside of Boise, so owning a car is almost a necessity for getting around. While buses and bike paths are available in urban areas, most residents rely on their vehicles for daily commutes and errands. Overall, transportation costs in Idaho are manageable, but owning and maintaining a car is a key factor to consider in your cost of living here.
Cost of healthcare in Idaho
Healthcare costs in Idaho can vary depending on your personal needs, coverage, and where you live. For most residents, health insurance premiums will play a significant role in overall healthcare costs. Whether you’re paying out of pocket for medical visits or relying on insurance, it’s important to keep in mind that healthcare rates can fluctuate based on factors like the type of coverage you have and your location in the state. In general, doctor’s visits in Idaho tend to be a bit higher than the national average. For example, in Boise, the average doctor’s visit costs $161.87, compared to the national average of $97.70. Similarly, dental care in Boise averages around $121.52, which is above the national average of $115.50. If you’re in Twin Falls, though, you might pay a bit less for both dental ($99.30) and doctor visits ($159.11), still above the national average but not as steep as Boise. These variations should be considered when planning your cost of living in Idaho, especially if healthcare is a significant part of your budget.
Taxes in Idaho are fairly reasonable
Idaho’s taxes play a significant role in its cost of living, but they are relatively moderate compared to other states. The state has a flat 5.8% individual income tax rate, which simplifies things for residents since everyone pays the same percentage, regardless of income level. Idaho’s state sales tax stands at 6.00%, with the combined state and local sales tax rate averaging 6.03%, which is reasonable considering the national average falls between 5%-7%. Property taxes in Idaho are quite affordable, with an effective rate of 0.47% on owner-occupied housing value, which is lower than the national average. While these rates are lower than in some neighboring states, it’s still essential to factor them into your overall cost of living in Idaho, as they’ll contribute to your monthly budget.
How much do I need to earn to live in Idaho?
To live comfortably in Idaho, it’s helpful to consider the 30% rule, which suggests that no more than 30% of your gross monthly income should go toward housing costs, including rent. Using this guideline, let’s break down what you would need to earn based on the average rent in the state. The average rent in Idaho is $1,430, meaning you should aim to earn at least $4,767 per month (or roughly $57,200 annually) to keep your rent within a manageable portion of your income. However, rent can vary by location, so let’s compare two cities. In Boise, a 1-bedroom apartment averages $1,620, which means you’d need to earn about $5,400 per month, or $64,800 annually, to maintain the same affordability. On the other hand, Pocatello offers a more affordable option, with a 1-bedroom rental price of $995. Here, a monthly income of $3,317 (or $39,800 annually) would be sufficient to meet the 30% rule. The cost of living in Idaho can vary depending on where you choose to live, but understanding these housing costs and applying the 30% rule can give you a good idea of what you need to earn to live in Idaho.
Methodology
Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.
