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Boise, ID Utility & Living Guide
Boise is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Idaho. It is the county seat of Ada County. The population of the city was 235,685 at the 2020 census. The Boise metropolitan area, located in the Treasure Valley, includes five counties of Idaho with an estimated population of 846,000
The latest recognition of Boise as a top destination for remote workers is a testament to the city's unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and modern amenities. For individuals considering relocating to Boise, this designation is especially relevant, as it highlights the city's appeal as a place to balance work and play. Boise's cost of living is notably lower compared to other mid-size cities, making it an attractive option for remote workers looking to stretch their dollars further. The city's housing market, while growing, still offers a range of affordable options, from modern apartments to family-friendly homes. With its proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities, a thriving cultural scene, and a growing food and drink scene, Boise's quality of life is hard to beat. As more people consider leaving traditional office environments behind, Boise's reputation as a hub for remote workers is likely to continue to grow, attracting new residents and businesses to the area. With its winning combination of affordability, lifestyle, and opportunity, Boise is worth watching as a city that is poised to thrive in the era of remote work.Monthly Utility Costs
$108/mo
$43/mo
$32/mo
$20/mo
$60/mo
Housing Market
| Rent & Property | |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1100/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1400/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1900/mo |
| Median Home Price | $340,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.93% |
| Avg Childcare/mo | $900 |
The Boise housing market is highly competitive, with low inventory and rising prices. The city has seen an influx of new residents, driving up demand for housing. As a result, renters and buyers can expect to face stiff competition.
Cost of Living
96.2
-3.8% below national average
94.3
88.2
97.2
$900
Tax Rates
| Tax Overview | |
|---|---|
| Total Sales Tax | 6% |
| Property Tax Rate | 0.93% |
| <p>State 6% + no County or City sales tax</p> | |
Idaho has a state income tax with rates ranging from 1.125% to 6.925%
Family & Relocation
55
7.2/10
$900/mo
City Pulse
Boise has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a downtown area that is easy to navigate on foot
- Boise Zoo
- Idaho State Capitol building
- World Center for Birds of Prey
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Household Budget Calculator
Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Boise based on your household profile.
📰 Live Local News
Boise has regulations in place to protect its natural environment and manage growth, including rules on zoning, building permits, and water conservation
Financial Tools
- Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
- Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
- Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
- Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city
- Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
- Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
- Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
- City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side
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📊 Boise — Census & Demographic Data
Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.
☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs
Summer months bring higher electricity bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased natural gas usage for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 15% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months.
🏛️ Local Tax Details
The Ada County assessor's office provides property tax information by ZIP code, with millage rates ranging from 0.5% to 1.5% depending on the location
👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness
8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a relatively flat downtown area, making it easy to get around with a stroller
Boise, Idaho, the state's capital and most populous city, boasts a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The origin of the city's name is uncertain, but one account credits Captain B. L. E. Bonneville and his French-speaking guide, who, upon seeing the verdant river valley, exclaimed "Les bois! Les bois!" or "The woods! The woods!" This phrase may have stuck, giving the city its unique name. French Canadian fur trappers associated with the Hudson's Bay Company also played a role in the area's early history, with the river that flows through the city potentially being named by these mountain men in the 1820s. Today, Boise is a thriving city with a strong sense of community and a deep connection to its natural surroundings.
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