Boise vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 7% 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
Comparing the overall cost of living, Jacksonville generally presents a more affordable option than Boise. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are noticeably higher in Boise. While some categories show similar costs, the substantial gap in housing makes Jacksonville the more budget-friendly choice for many households considering a move between these two metro areas.
Housing
Housing costs in Boise are significantly higher for both home purchases and rental properties compared to Jacksonville. While Jacksonville offers more accessible home prices and similar rental rates, potential homeowners there should factor in higher homeowners insurance premiums, possible flood insurance, and common community fees. Property taxes in Florida can also reset to market value upon sale, impacting a new owner's annual expenses.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation are lower in Boise, while utilities are more costly in Jacksonville. Food and healthcare costs are roughly similar in both metros. A key difference for overall spending is Florida's lack of a state income tax, which can lead to more take-home pay for residents in Jacksonville compared to those in Boise, where state income tax applies.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Boise offers a distinct four-season climate with colder winters and drier summers, while Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate with warm, wet summers and mild winters. Commute times are generally shorter in Boise. Jacksonville's location near the coast brings hurricane season considerations. Both metros offer different paces of life and access to outdoor activities, from mountains in Idaho to beaches in Florida.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing lower housing costs, Jacksonville presents a clear advantage, with both home prices and rental rates being more accessible. The absence of state income tax in Florida also contributes to a more favorable financial picture for many. While some daily expenses like utilities may be higher in Jacksonville, and specific insurance costs are a factor, Boise's higher housing market and state income tax generally result in a greater overall financial commitment.
| Measure | Boise, ID | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 95 |
| Housing index | 110 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 96 |
| Food index | 95 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 105 |
| Misc index | 90 | 88 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,400/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 Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.