Is Boise or Portland more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Portland.
3
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Portland wins
ID
Boise
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
241,150
Population
647,176
$62,000
Median Income
+26.6%$78,476✓
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-6.3%$1,406✓
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+0.6%$462,800
29%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.80%✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°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
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Boise vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Portland?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Boise wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Portland?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Portland?
Boise. Portland. 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.