Is Boise or Boston more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Boston is $1,783/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Boston, MA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Boston.
3
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Boston wins
ID
Boise
vs
MA
Boston
Overview
241,150
Population
672,814
$62,000
Median Income
+31.8%$81,744✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+18.9%$1,783
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+32.7%$610,400
29%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
5.00%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
45.41°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
42.48°F
206 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
12"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Boise vs Boston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Boston?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Boston?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Boston?
Boise. Boston. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.