Cost of Living in Boise County, Idaho
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Boise County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Boise County ranks #838 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Boise County, Idaho
Boise County combines low rent with solid income
Boise County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.3% beats the national standard, with renters spending just $854 monthly on a median household income of $77,349. This county's above-national income paired with below-average housing costs creates genuine affordability for renters and homebuyers alike.
Boise County ranks among Idaho's most affordable
Boise County's 13.3% rent-to-income ratio sits well below Idaho's state average of 16.8%, positioning it as one of the state's best affordability markets. At $854 monthly, median rent undercuts the state median of $919 while household incomes exceed state norms by $467.
Boise County offers mountain living at moderate cost
Boise County's median rent of $854 aligns with Bingham County ($845) and undercuts Ada County ($1,465) by over $600 monthly. Though home values of $424,100 reflect mountain-area premiums, they remain accessible compared to Blaine County's $663,800 or Ada's $476,000.
Renters and owners both achieve balance
Boise County renters spend $854 monthly while homeowners pay $973, both moderate on a median income of $77,349 that exceeds national norms. Housing consumes just 13.3% of income, leaving substantial earnings for savings, healthcare, and discretionary spending.
Boise County: affordability meets mountain character
If you want mountain living without Ada County's price tag or Blaine County's exclusivity, Boise County delivers solid income potential and genuine housing affordability. This underrated county offers genuine value for those balancing cost and lifestyle in Idaho's scenic interior.
Cost of Living Advisory: Boise County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Boise County is affordable. The median rent is $854/month against a median household income of $77,349, putting rent at 13.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $854/month rent versus $973/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $119/month cheaper — a 12% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,700/year. With a median household income of $77,349, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Boise County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Fremont County where rent averages $803/month, Boise County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Boise County
Rent Burden
13.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,805
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.1%
of gross income
The median home in Boise County may be a stretch
Median home value is $424,100. Estimated monthly cost: $3,386 vs. your max of $1,805.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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