THIS Is Why It’s So Expensive To Live In Boise

Maybe you don't know. Maybe you're reading this from a state other than Idaho, and you're thinking "How is a city in Idaho expensive to live in?"

Well, sit down as we drop a metric ton of knowledge on you. Boise is expensive. Like, really expensive. Here's why.

Ok so Boise, Idaho is an expensive place to live. But how expensive? And why?

Well, let's tackle the first question. How much more expensive is it to live in Boise compared to other places in the country? A lot, that's how much.

Specifically, it costs around 2% more than the national average to live in Boise. Which, may not sound like it's that costly, but when you keep in mind the rest of Idaho is around 8% cheaper to live, you can see where the problems arise.

Okay, so why is Boise so expensive? That answer is actually really, really simple: Overpriced goods and services, and housing costs.

Goods and services in 2025 cost 25% more on average than the rest of the country. Twenty-five percent! That's an enormous price increase.

Housing in Boise isn't much better, coming in at around 12% more expensive than other parts of the country.

So, how are you able to afford living in the City of Trees? Did you get that big promotion at work? Take on a second job? Did Aunt Judy die and leave that massive inheritance all in your name? We'd love to know your secrets.

-

If all this financial worry has you hungry, same!

Here are some of our current fav spots: