Cost of Living in Boise, Idaho in 2025

Boise, Idaho Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Boise has risen from $700 in 2010 to $1,642 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit costs are modest with one-way fares at $1.50 and a monthly pass around $45.
• Utilities: Boise has utilities costs 23% below national averages, with monthly expenses totaling about $201.
• Income Levels: Median household income is expected to reach $98,700 in 2025, reflecting steady growth from previous years.

Boise Idaho's cost of living in 2025 shows significant shifts, especially in housing and income levels.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of various factors like housing, utilities, transportation, and more, to help understand living expenses in Boise.

1. Housing Costs in Boise, Idaho

Housing remains a major expense for residents in Boise. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment has changed significantly over the years:

• 2010: $700
• 2015: $850
• 2020: $1,100
• 2024: $1,359
• 2025: $1,642

This steady increase illustrates Boise's growing demand for rental properties and the city's evolving housing market.

Employers in the hospitality industry should also be aware of the real estate market trends in hospitality to optimize location decisions and employee accommodations.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Boise, Idaho

For those aiming to buy a home, Boise's real estate market has seen consistent price growth:

• 2010: Median home price approximately $150,000
• 2015: $200,000
• 2020: $300,000
• 2024: $456,000
• 2025: $535,000

This trend indicates a strong market for both homeowners and investors but also points towards affordability challenges for some residents.

3. Transportation Expenses in Boise, Idaho

Boise offers various transportation options with associated costs as follows:

• Public Transit One-way Fare: $1.50
• Monthly Public Transit Pass: $45.00
• Fuel Cost per Gallon: $3.49
• Annual Vehicle Maintenance: $1,000

Transportation costs here are influenced by commuting preferences and vehicle usage.

4. Utility Costs in Boise, Idaho

Essential utilities for a typical household include the following monthly average expenses:

• Electricity: $140.97
• Internet Services: $60.00
• Total Utilities: $200.97

Boise's utilities are generally more affordable, being around 23% below the national average.

Hospitality businesses seeking to reduce operational expenses may find insights in the restaurant utility costs guide useful for managing their utility budgets effectively.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Boise, Idaho

Monthly grocery expenses per person amount to about $300. Dining out costs include:

• Casual Meal: $15
• Mid-range Restaurant Meal: $50

Food expenses are slightly above the national average by roughly 4%, reflecting local market conditions.

6. Healthcare Costs in Boise, Idaho

Monthly healthcare expenses for residents include:

• Employer-sponsored Health Insurance: $150
• Silver Plan Health Insurance: $500

Healthcare costs hover slightly below national averages by about 1%, making Boise moderately affordable in this respect.

7. Educational Expenses in Boise, Idaho

Education costs vary by type of institution:

• Public Schools: No direct tuition costs
• Private Schools: Average tuition around $10,000 annually
• In-state University Tuition: Approximately $8,000 per year

Boise offers diverse education options catering to different budgets.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Boise, Idaho

Entertainment options include:

• Movie Ticket: $12.08
• Gym Membership Monthly: $40
• Mid-range Restaurant Meal: $50
• Annual Entertainment Expenses: $2,000
• Personal Care Services Annual: $600
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services Annual: $500

These contribute to the overall living experience in Boise.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Boise, Idaho

Key taxes affecting residents include:

• State Income Tax Rate: Ranges between 1% and 6%
• Sales Tax: 6%
• Property Tax Rate: Approximately 0.75%

These taxes impact budgeting and financial planning for individuals and families.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Boise, Idaho

Family-related expenses are as follows:

• Daycare Monthly Cost: $1,000
• After-School Programs Monthly: $300
• Extracurricular Activities Monthly: $100

These are important factors for families to consider when planning their budgets.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Boise, Idaho

Monthly expenses for personal maintenance include:

• Clothing: $100
• Personal Care Products and Services: $50

These reflect standard living costs commonly seen in the region.

12. Insurance Costs in Boise, Idaho

Insurance premiums include:

• Health Insurance Monthly: $500
• Auto Insurance Annual: $1,200
• Homeowners Insurance Annual: $800
• Renters Insurance Annual: $200

Insurance is an essential aspect of financial security and compliance.

Hospitality employers might want to review insurance options for restaurant owners to ensure adequate coverage for their business and staff.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Boise, Idaho

Additional yearly expenses are:

• Entertainment: $2,000
• Personal Care Services: $600
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $500

These vary depending on lifestyle choices.

14. Income and Salaries in Boise, Idaho

Median household income in Boise has progressed over time:

• 2010: $50,000
• 2015: $55,000
• 2020: $65,000
• 2023: $81,308
• 2025: $98,700

This steady increase reflects economic growth and rising wages in the area.

For hospitality employers looking to attract and retain talent, understanding salary trends for restaurant managers can provide a competitive edge in wage offerings.

Potential employees interested in hospitality positions in Boise can explore detailed information on roles such as a restaurant manager job description and related career paths.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Compared to national averages, Boise's cost of living shows the following:

• Overall Cost of Living: Approximately 2% higher than the national average.
• Housing: About 1% higher than national figures.
• Utilities: 23% lower than national averages.
• Food: 4% higher.
• Healthcare: 1% lower.
• Transportation: 9% higher.
• Goods and Services: 7% higher.

These comparisons help identify the relative affordability of different living costs in Boise.

Our Methodology for Boise Cost of Living Figures

We compile data from reliable sources like Numbeo, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Zillow, Statista and government records. Where precise data is unavailable, we use estimates to ensure a comprehensive picture of Boise's living costs.

Boise Cost of Living: Conclusion

Boise's cost of living in 2025 reflects a growing city with rising housing prices and increasing household incomes.

While utilities and healthcare remain relatively affordable, housing and transportation costs are higher than national averages.

Understanding these factors helps current residents and potential movers navigate the financial aspects of life in Boise successfully.

Hospitality employers can benefit from strategies discussed in the restaurant staff hiring spotlight to manage staffing costs amid changing living expenses.