Rated the best city to live in by Livability because of its affordability and style, the “City of Trees,” otherwise known as Boise, provides a perfect balance between city life and outdoor adventures.
Boise’s aesthetic, paired with its continuously growing nature, makes it ideal for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle yet keep the culture that comes with it.
Whether you’re simply looking for a change of scenery or want to find a town that’s built on promising futures, Boise is the ideal place for you.
To see why countless lifestyle magazines so highly rank this mid-sized yet tight-knit community, let’s dive into the cost of living in Boise and its many perks below.
What is the average rent in Boise?
With Boise’s healthy (6.8 out of 10) job market and an unemployment rate that is 0.9 percent lower than the national average, it makes sense that people are willing to live here no matter how much the average rent is.
Despite its consistent growth, transplants don’t have to worry too much about the average rent in Boise. You can expect an average one-bedroom apartment to cost $1,353 each month. While it’s nearly 7 percent higher than last year, that figure is $257 less than the national rent average. This is why Boise is one of the more affordable cities to live in despite expansion and national interest.
How much do I need to make to live in Boise?
Experts recommend that you spend no more than 30 percent of your pre-tax income on your rent. With the average rent in Boise at $1,353, you will need to make roughly $54,120 annually to live comfortably. The median household income sits at $56,798, so being able to afford rent and additional luxuries is a piece of cake.
However, if you are still leery about your specific budget and how it ties into the Boise lifestyle, check out our rent calculator today to get a more solid and personalized number.
The cost of living in Boise
Understanding the average cost of living in a city is essential when looking to move there. Boise is about 1 percent more affordable compared to the national average.
Here is a more comprehensive breakout of the cost of living in Boise:
- Utilities: The cost of utilities in Boise is 16.9 percent lower than the national average
- Housing: The cost of housing in Boise is 6.5 percent lower than the national average
- Groceries: The cost of groceries in Boise is 6.5 percent below the national average
- Healthcare: The cost of healthcare in Boise is 1.2 percent below the national average
- Miscellaneous goods and services: The cost of miscellaneous goods and services in Boise is 3.3 percent more than the national average
- Transportation: The cost of transportation in Boise is 8.8 percent higher than the national average
Taking these numbers into account, you can see why more people are heading to Boise for a more unique and affordable lifestyle every year.
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The most and least expensive neighborhoods in Boise
When evaluating Boise’s housing, you’ll find a wide range of prices, depending on types and proximity to the city’s heart.
On average, you’ll pay more in the center of downtown and the southeast and north end of Boise. These areas are more expensive but also have accommodations and nearby attractions worth the extra cost each month.
The best values in the city are in the outskirts of Boise and near Boise State University. While most people expect to pay more to live near the university, rent prices in this area are surprisingly affordable. These areas allow you to drive into the city as you please without being smack dab in the center.
No matter where you end up, Boise’s charm is certain to make your neighborhood special.
The most expensive Boise neighborhoods
Rent is most expensive in the center of Boise’s downtown district and the Southeast and Harris Ranch areas. These areas provide close proximity to Boise’s most exciting events and restaurants, boutique shops, schools and outdoor attractions. From hiking throughout the Camel’s Back trails to having a bite to eat at James Beard semi-finalist Sarah Kelly’s restaurant, Petite 4, the opportunities these neighborhoods offer are endless.
The most expensive average rent is found in downtown Boise. Here, you’ll pay roughly $1,711 for a one-bedroom apartment. Apartments in this neighborhood are stunning and come with multiple amenities from spas, rock climbing walls and even rental bikes.
The cheapest Boise neighborhoods
If a less pricey but still local neighborhood is more your type, the East End, Lake Harbor, Vista and Southwest Boise are all adequate areas packed with fantastic restaurants, fun outdoor attractions, great people and beautiful apartments. Considering the smaller nature of Boise, no matter where you live, you are roughly a five-minute drive from downtown.
East End is the cheapest neighborhood in Boise. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment here is $1,043. This is a stark contrast from the center of downtown but is only a few miles away, making it a more approachable neighborhood for those wanting the real Boise experience without the above-average rent costs.
Average rent prices in Boise neighborhoods
Boise’s average rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,043 to $1,711. Here are the average rent prices for every neighborhood to break down your budget and area of choice with ease.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-BR Rent Price | YoY Rent Price Change |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Boise | $1,711 | 3.50% |
| East End | $1,043 | -0.66% |
| Harris Ranch | $1,654 | 0.73% |
| Lake Harbor | $1,317 | 1.47% |
| Northwest | $1,301 | 3.94% |
| Northwest Boise City | $1,210 | 3.87% |
| Southeast Boise* | $1,668 | -6.76% |
| Southwest Ada County Alliance | $1,165 | 7.93% |
| Southwest Boise City | $1,165 | 7.93% |
| Vista* | $1,310 | -2.17% |
*May not be a true market representation due to insufficient inventory
Find your Boise neighborhood
With so many opportunities all mere minutes away, it’s clear to see why Boise is so popular. From mountain bikers and kayakers to musicians and construction workers — there’s something for everyone.
Find your ideal apartment or home in Boise today and experience all the “best city to live in” has to offer.
