Idaho, known as the "Gem State", is a rapidly growing Mountain West state with rising but still moderate costs. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Gem State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Idaho for a single person earning the median income of $62,300/year:
Each category shows how Idaho compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Idaho.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Idaho.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Idaho:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Idaho, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Idaho is $415,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,100/month. With a housing cost index of 105, Idaho housing is 5% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in Idaho are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
Idaho has a state income tax rate of 5.8%. On the median household income of $62,300, you will pay approximately $3,613/year in state income tax ($301/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Idaho spends approximately $390/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $975-$1,170/month. The food cost index of 94 means groceries in Idaho are 6% below the national average.
Gas prices in Idaho average $3.35/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,010/year in fuel costs.
Idaho healthcare costs are 4% below the national average (index: 96). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Idaho is approximately $5,760 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Idaho averages $850/month ($10,200/year). This is below the national average, making Idaho more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Idaho find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Idaho offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Boise and Meridian, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Idaho financial calculators:
Idaho (ID) has a cost of living index of 97, meaning it is 3% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 105. The median rent is $1,100/month and the median home price is $415,000. Idaho ranks #27 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Idaho is approximately $80,990/year ($6,749/month). For a family of four, aim for $137,060/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($390/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Idaho is $62,300.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Idaho is approximately $1,100/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,485/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Boise, Meridian, Nampa are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Idaho are above average — budget carefully.
Idaho offers a balanced lifestyle with costs near the national average. Growing job markets in Boise and Meridian attract new residents.
The most affordable areas in Idaho are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Idaho, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Boise metro) and more affordable areas. Idaho Falls and Caldwell tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Idaho for a single person is approximately $390 ($975 for a family of four). Idaho food costs are 6% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Idaho is approximately $110. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $242/month. Idaho utilities are 13% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Idaho has a state income tax rate of 5.8%. On the median household income of $62,300, that is approximately $3,613/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.