Income Reality in Idaho — Taxes, Housing & Salary
Outdoor lifestyle, growing Boise metro, near national average costs
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFIncome tax overview
5.3% flat rate effective 2025, retroactive (HB 40, Tax Foundation)
Housing snapshot
Median 1BR rent in Boise is approximately $1,300. Costs rose dramatically 2019-2022 but have moderated. Smaller Idaho cities are significantly more affordable.
Cost of living summary
At an index of 99, Idaho is about 1% cheaper than the national average of 100.
Idaho has seen significant population growth driven by California and Washington migrants seeking lower costs. Boise has become a tech hub with rising but still below-coastal housing costs.
Major cities
Salary reality examples
Comfortable in Boise. Very comfortable in smaller Idaho cities.
Strong purchasing power statewide. Idaho's outdoor quality of life adds non-financial value.
Excellent flexibility. Idaho remains significantly below Washington and California costs.
FAQ — Income Reality in Idaho
Is Idaho affordable?
Idaho's cost of living index is approximately 99, near the national average. It was significantly cheaper before 2019 but has risen with population influx.
What is Idaho's income tax rate?
Idaho has a flat income tax rate of 5.8%.
Related tools
Cost of Living Index from C2ER. This is a picture, not a verdict.