Boise vs Cincinnati: cost of living compared
Cincinnati is 14% cheaper than Boise overall.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Cincinnati offers a noticeably lower overall cost of living compared to Boise, primarily driven by a significant difference in housing expenses. While some daily costs are roughly similar or slightly favor Boise, the substantial gap in housing prices makes Cincinnati a more budget-friendly option for many. This difference is a key factor when considering a move between these two cities.
Housing
Housing costs present the most substantial difference, with both median home prices and typical rental rates being considerably lower in Cincinnati than in Boise. Cincinnati features a mix of historic and newer housing stock, often with more traditional architectural styles. Boise's housing market is more competitive, with a higher median home price and steeper rental costs, reflecting its rapid growth.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, and utilities are generally more affordable in Boise, though the difference is not as dramatic as with housing. Healthcare costs are quite similar in both metros. Ohio has a state income tax, which is a factor to consider for Cincinnati residents, while Idaho's state income tax situation is different. This impacts overall take-home pay and daily spending power.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Boise offers a high desert climate with distinct seasons, known for outdoor recreation and a generally more spread-out feel. Cincinnati has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, including warmer summers and colder winters, and a more established, denser urban core with a rich history. Commute times are generally shorter in Boise, contributing to a slightly different daily pace.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a lower cost of living, Cincinnati presents a clear advantage, largely due to its significantly more affordable housing market. While Boise offers some savings in areas like transportation and utilities, these are generally outweighed by its higher housing expenses. A move between these metros will result in a notable shift in household budget allocation, especially concerning shelter costs.
| Measure | Boise, ID | Cincinnati, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 88 |
| Housing index | 110 | 66 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 92 |
| Food index | 95 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 98 |
| Misc index | 90 | 88 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $228,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 22 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Cincinnati home with the True Cost Calculator.