Back

Cost of Living in
Idaho

Living cost is 6.27% lower than avg
Families spend upto $8,234/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $7,880/mo on avg
Renters spend $4,381/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Idaho

Enter the city you're moving from

Moving From

Moving To

Your Pre-Tax Income

A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Idaho

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Home Price

$534,127

$468,320.67

12%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,354

$1,394.67

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.9

$176.91

20%

Total Energy (per month)

$194.67

$148.93

23%

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$5.88

$5.44

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.33

$2.08

11%

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.75

$3.77

21%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.00

$8.51

42%

Detergent (per bottle)

$18.81

$21.11

12%

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.54

$2.41

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.74

$1.63

Sugar (per bag)

$4.46

$4.82

Bread (per loaf)

$3.66

$4.19

14%

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.4

14%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.67

$1.44

14%

Steak (per lb)

$13.56

$16.18

19%

Sausage (per lb)

$4.89

$4.92

Ground Beef (per lb)

$7.90

$7.66

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.08

$2.91

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.08

$4.06

20%

Coffee (per lb)

$5.92

$6.84

16%

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$4.85

$4.99

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.29

$2.54

41%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.85

$1.79

Bananas (per lb)

$0.62

$0.8

29%

Potatoes (per bag)

$4.61

$4.6

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.46

$4.53

Margarine (per lb)

$1.26

$1.38

10%

Eggs (per dozen)

$4.50

$4.24

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.02

$4.33

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.06

$1.33

25%

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$69.15

$69.52

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.82

$3.18

13%

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$113.53

$187.2

65%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$144.14

$117.77

18%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$11.48

$11.68

Prescription Drug (per month)

$21.09

$22.98

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$93.18

$169.69

82%

U.S. Avg.

Idaho

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$34.9

$33.42

Boys’ Jeans

$29.45

$28.61

Men’s Shirt

$39.14

$38.82

Wine (per bottle)

$7.14

$11

54%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$10.78

$10.34

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.41

$75.19

15%

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.49

$4.22

21%

Yoga (per class)

$11.89

$16.82

41%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.41

$13.47

18%

Newspaper (per copy)

$18.96

$13.65

28%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.38

$101.79

Women Slacks

$34.88

$38.89

12%

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$26.93

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$38.42

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.25

$18.33

38%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.56

$1.46

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.59

$3.57

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$46.61

$44.83

Haircut (per cut)

$26.79

$31.4

17%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.36

$4.81

10%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.88

$12.13

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.25

$5.89

12%

Known as The Gem State, Idaho offers big views and small bills. The average cost of living in Idaho is 6.27% lowerthan the national average, drawing in home buyers looking for space, safety, and access to the outdoors. Whether you’re skiing in Sun Valley or hiking near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho delivers affordability without skimping on lifestyle.

Housing in Idaho is 12% lower than the US average. The average home price in Idaho is $468,320.67, compared to the national median of $437,900. That puts a 20% down payment at $99,000. Buyers may still find more square footage for their money in rural areas, though prices continue to climb in cities like Boise, Meridian, and popular resort towns.
Renting in Idaho costs 3.0% higher than the US average. A one-bedroom apartment goes for $1,300, a two-bedroom averages $1,500, and a 3-bedroom rents for $1,800. Newer units in Boise often include in-unit laundry and parking. In smaller towns, rentals may be older but come with more space and lower overall costs.
Utilities in Idaho are 22% lower than the national average. Expect to pay about $148.93 for electricity, $130 for water, sewer, and trash, and $70 for high-speed internet. With no hurricanes, wildfires, or flooding in most areas, the state’s insurance premiums stay low, and maintenance needs are generally manageable.
Food costs in Idaho are 3% lower than the national average. A family of four spends $1,000 to $1,300 per month on groceries, while a single adult can budget $300 to $500. Local produce and farmers’ markets help ease your budgets during warmer months.
Transportation is 6.44% higher than the national average. Gas costs $3.18 per gallon, and car insurance averages $75 to $145 per month. Public transit exists mainly in Boise; most Idahoans rely on personal vehicles. Snow tires and winter prep add to annual vehicle costs, especially in the north.
Healthcare in Idaho’s cost is 12.8% higher than the national average. A routine check-up costs $150 to $300, and an ER visit without insurance can cost $2,000. Costs remain elevated in rural areas due to provider shortages and limited hospital access. Idaho ranks low in physician availability, so selecting the right insurance plan is key, especially outside major cities.
Miscellaneous costs are 0.85% lower than the US average. Idaho residents pay $30 to $70 per month for gyms, $10 to $13 for movie tickets, and $700 to $1,000 for monthly childcare. Most entertainment tends to be outdoors—ski passes, hiking, and fishing licenses—which keeps lifestyle costs low.

Moving to Idaho? You’ll likely enjoy a lower cost of living. Just be ready for rising home prices in popular cities—those mountain views don’t come free!

👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Idaho. Cost of living data is sourced in part from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Figures are provided for informational purposes only and may not reflect real-time changes.

Find your
dream home in Idaho

Browse Homes For Sale in Idaho

Is Living in Idaho Expensive?

No, Idaho is not expensive to live in. The overall living cost in Idaho is 6.27% lowerthan the national average, making it a practical choice for most middle-class families. While housing costs are 12% lower than the US average, Idaho’s rent, utilities, and healthcare are all relatively reasonable.

With a $700K budget, you can afford a spacious modern home in Boise or Coeur d’Alene, as opposed to a much smaller home in cities like Denver or Seattle. For many households, Idaho strikes a balance between quality of life and affordability.

Housing in Idaho

While housing in Idaho is 12% lower than the national average, it remains more accessible than in many high-cost states. The market is especially active in cities like Boise and Meridian. Still, mortgage payments in much of Idaho are lower than those in major metro areas across the country. Here’s what you can expect:

Buying a House in Idaho

If you’re a young adult or single, homes in Boise and the North End offer an urban lifestyle, with easy access to cafes, bars, and public transit. Condos and smaller homes here typically range from $250,000 to $350,000, so your monthly mortgage payments should be around $1,200 to $1,700. These areas provide walkability and a social scene that appeals to younger buyers, with nearby attractions including the Boise River Greenbelt and several craft breweries.
If you’re a married couple with young children (under 6), homes in Meridian, Eagle, and Garden City are popular choices. Three-bedroom homes here usually fall between $400,000 and $550,000, with monthly mortgage costs averaging $1,800 to $2,500. These neighborhoods offer proximity to quality public schools like Hillside Elementary and Eagle Middle School, plus parks, family-friendly shopping centers, and safe streets.
Married couples with older children (ages 6–17) often seek larger apartments in Idaho communities like Kuna, Star, or the outskirts of Boise. Four-bedroom homes here cost from $500,000 to $700,000, with mortgage payments generally between $2,200 and $3,200 monthly. These areas provide access to top-rated schools such as Mountain View High and West Ada School District, along with hiking trails and community sports leagues for older kids.

Renting a House in Idaho

Rent in Idaho is about 3.0% higher than the national average, offering renters good value for their money. One-bedroom apartments typically cost around $1,300, while two-bedroom units average about $1,500. Let’s take a closer look at how rental prices and neighborhoods vary based on your lifestyle:

If you’re a young adult or single, neighborhoods like Boise’s East End and Downtown Garden City offer affordable one- and two-bedroom homes, ranging from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. These areas give you access to vibrant nightlife, coffee shops, and bike trails, with bus routes that make your commute easy. Their social scene and walkability make them especially appealing to this demographic.
If you’re a married couple with young children (under 6), look toward suburbs such as Nampa and Eagle. Two- and three-bedroom rental homes here typically cost between $1,600 and $2,200. These family-friendly neighborhoods boast quality public schools like Nampa Elementary and Eagle Hills Elementary, as well as parks, playgrounds, and shopping centers suited to young families.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), neighborhoods like Star and Meridian have larger three- and four-bedroom homes, which usually rent between $1,900 and $2,700 monthly. These areas come with access to highly-rated schools and plenty of extracurricular activities, like sports leagues and community centers.
If you’re a retiree or downsizer, consider quieter areas like Kuna or Coeur d’Alene’s downtown. One- and two-bedroom homes here rent between $1,100 and $1,700. These neighborhoods offer peaceful surroundings, healthcare facilities nearby, and easy access to nature trails and community events.
International students often rent shared apartments near Boise State University or in Eagle. One-bedroom homes can cost around $1,300 to $1,600, but sharing with roommates can cut your expenses by up to 30%. Proximity to campus, libraries, and cafes make these neighborhoods ideal for students.

Utilities in Idaho

Food and Groceries in Idaho

Transportation in Idaho

Transportation costs in Idaho are 6.44% higher than the national average, but the extra expense comes with fewer traffic jams and more scenic drives. However, public transit is limited outside major areas like Boise.

Healthcare in Idaho

Healthcare costs in Idaho are 12.8% higher than the national average, so your medical expenses remain manageable. While the state’s clean air and active lifestyle contribute to overall wellness, routine doctor visits and prescriptions can still eat into your budget. Here’s a look at healthcare expenses in Idaho:

Doctor Visit — $187.20+ per visit: A typical appointment with a general practitioner for check-ups, cold or flu symptoms, or prescription refills costs up to $180 or more. Visits to specialists, like cardiologists or endocrinologists, may increase your bill further.
Dentist Visit — $117.77+ per visit: Routine dental cleanings cost around $140, while cavity fillings range from $160 to $220. Compared to other states, Idaho’s dental care remains reasonable considering local access and quality.
Optometrist Visit — $169.69+ per visit: Expect to pay around $145 for a routine eye exam, which includes vision tests and prescription updates. Additional services like fitting for eyeglasses or treatment for dry eye syndrome can add $60 to $150 or more to your bill.
Prescription Drugs: Monthly costs for common medications vary; Lisinopril for blood pressure costs about $22.98 without insurance, while Metformin for diabetes can be $25 to $40. Short-term antibiotics like Amoxicillin typically cost between $25 and $35 per course.
Over-the-Counter Medications — $12 to $15 per package: Basic meds like ibuprofen, allergy relief, and cold/flu treatments generally cost slightly above national averages. Whether you’re soothing a spring allergy flare-up or tackling a headache, keeping essentials on hand is a smart move.

Despite some regional challenges, Idaho benefits from a healthier environment that can reduce common ailments, especially respiratory issues linked to pollution in larger cities. Compared to healthcare costs in states with major metros like New York, California, or Massachusetts, Idaho remains more affordable overall, though medical bills can still be a burden without proper coverage.
It’s a good idea to get health insurance. Monthly premiums in Idaho typically range between $450* and $850* depending on your plan and age. Having insurance helps offset the financial impact of routine care and unexpected emergencies alike.

*Disclaimer: These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. Always compare plans and consult professionals to find coverage that fits your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Idaho

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Idaho?

The average income in Idaho is 6.27% lower. But to live comfortably, you may need more than that, depending on your housing situation and family size. Idaho’s cost of living is 6.27% below the national average, which helps, but rising home prices and childcare costs can still put pressure on your wallet.

Homeowners spend — $94,556.00 per year: Owning a home in Idaho means lower mortgage payments compared to coastal states. However, costs like maintenance, insurance, and property taxes still add up, particularly if you live in growing areas like Eagle or Coeur d’Alene.

Renters spend — $52,576.00 per year: Renters benefit from Idaho’s below-average rent prices, but monthly bills for groceries, gas, and utilities can quickly drive expenses up, especially in metro areas.

Families with kids spend — $98,804.00 per year: From daycare and diapers to school supplies and extracurriculars, raising children in Idaho comes with separate budget demands. Larger homes and higher healthcare costs add to the overall costs for families.

Is Idaho Too Expensive? Find Homes in Idaho as Per Your Budget

Idaho Homes Under

$100,000

Idaho Homes Under

$200,000

Idaho Homes Under

$300,000

Idaho Homes Under

$400,000

Idaho Homes Under

$500,000

Idaho Homes Under

$600,000

Idaho Homes Under

$700,000

Idaho Homes Under

$800,000

Idaho Homes Under

$900,000

Idaho Homes Under

$1M

Discover your place in Idaho

View neighborhood insights, browse popular homes, and shortlist the ones you like on any device.

Download the Houzeo Mobile App Now!

What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Idaho cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine Idaho's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in Idaho?

Gas in Idaho averages $3.18 per gallon, slightly above the national average. Prices can further spike in winter or during holiday travel, especially along busy routes like I-84.

Is Idaho a good place to live?

Yes, Idaho is a great place to live for those who value natural beauty, space, and a slower pace of life. The state offers easy access to mountains, lakes, and national parks, along with relatively low crime rates and a growing job market. Cities like Boise and Coeur d’Alene have strong public schools, expanding healthcare options, and a balance of modern amenities with small-town character.<

What is the cost of living in Idaho?

The cost of living in Idaho is 6.27% lower than the national average. Healthcare and utilities are especially affordable, though housing can be slightly expensive.

What is the average rent in Idaho?

A one-bedroom home in Idaho rents for around $1,394.67 per month, while two-bedroom homes average $1,500. Cities like Nampa and Idaho Falls offer more budget-friendly options compared to Boise or Coeur d’Alene.

How much is a two-bedroom apartment in Idaho?

The average two-bedroom home in Idaho typically costs between $350,000 and $450,000, depending on location and property features. Prices are higher in newer developments and popular school districts, while suburban and rural areas often offer more space at lower costs.

What is the average price of utilities in Idaho?

Utilities in Idaho are 22% lower than the national average, with monthly bills ranging from $150 to $200. Mild summers help keep air conditioning costs down in many parts of the state.

How much is childcare in Idaho?

If you're moving to Idaho, childcare typically costs between $850 and $1,100 per month. Prices tend to be higher in cities like Boise and Idaho Falls, and lower in smaller towns, with daycare centers generally costing more than in-home care.