Boise vs Hartford: cost of living compared
Hartford is 16% more expensive 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
Overall, the cost of living is noticeably higher in Hartford compared to Boise. While housing costs are a major factor, Hartford's significantly higher utility expenses and other daily costs contribute to this difference. Boise's overall expenses are closer to the national average, making it a more budget-friendly option for many households.
Housing
Housing costs, both for buying and renting, are considerably higher in Boise. However, property taxes and insurance can be a significant ongoing expense in Hartford, potentially narrowing the gap in total ownership costs. Boise tends to feature newer construction, while Hartford offers a mix of older, established homes and more urban apartment options.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. Hartford has a state income tax, which Boise does not, impacting take-home pay. Utilities are much more expensive in Hartford, while food and healthcare costs are also higher. Transportation costs are noticeably lower in Boise, making daily commuting and errands generally less expensive there.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Boise offers a drier, high-desert climate with distinct seasons and a strong connection to outdoor activities. Getting around is typically car-dependent, with shorter average commute times. Hartford experiences a four-season, humid continental climate, with a denser urban core and access to public transit options, though commute times are generally longer.
Bottom line
Moving from Boise to Hartford would likely mean a significant increase in overall household expenses, driven primarily by much higher utility costs, a state income tax, and increased spending on food and healthcare. Conversely, a move from Hartford to Boise would generally result in a more favorable budget, despite higher home purchase prices, due to lower overall daily living costs.
| Measure | Boise, ID | Hartford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 118 |
| Housing index | 110 | 86 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 100 |
| Food index | 95 | 108 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 148 |
| Misc index | 90 | 108 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $298,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,350/mo |
| Average commute | 22 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Hartford home with the True Cost Calculator.