Is Boise or San Diego more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and San Diego.
3
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
ID
Boise
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
241,150
Population
1,386,932
$62,000
Median Income
+28.5%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+40.0%$2,100
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+69.6%$780,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.80%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Boise vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or San Diego?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boise wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and San Diego?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or San Diego?
Boise. San Diego. 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.