Boise vs Kansas City: cost of living compared
Kansas City 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
Overall, Kansas City offers a significantly more affordable cost of living compared to Boise. The biggest factor driving this difference is housing, which is substantially more expensive in Boise. While some categories like utilities and transportation show Kansas City as slightly higher, these differences are minor compared to the substantial savings found in housing, food, and healthcare, making Kansas City the more budget-friendly option for most expenses.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast between the two metros. Both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents are considerably higher in Boise than in Kansas City. Boise's housing market is notably above the national average, while Kansas City's is well below. This means a much larger portion of your budget will go towards housing in Boise, whether you are looking to buy a home or rent an apartment.
Taxes and everyday costs
Beyond housing, daily expenses also lean towards Kansas City's favor. Food and healthcare costs are somewhat lower in Kansas City. Transportation costs are roughly similar, though slightly higher in Kansas City, while utilities are also a bit more expensive there. A key difference is state income tax; Kansas City residents face a state income tax, whereas Boise residents may not, depending on specific circumstances, which could impact take-home pay.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Boise, nestled in a high desert environment, offers a drier climate with distinct seasons and proximity to mountainous recreation. Getting around is generally car-dependent, with a somewhat shorter average commute. Kansas City, situated in the Midwest, experiences a more humid climate with four distinct seasons and a greater risk of severe weather. It is a larger, more spread-out metro with a slightly longer average commute, known for its urban amenities and cultural attractions.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a lower overall cost of living, Kansas City presents a clear advantage, primarily due to its much more affordable housing market. While Boise offers a slightly shorter commute and potentially different tax implications, the substantial savings on housing, food, and healthcare in Kansas City mean a household budget will stretch considerably further there. Your decision will likely hinge on the importance of these cost differences versus the distinct lifestyle and environmental offerings of each city.
| Measure | Boise, ID | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 88 |
| Housing index | 110 | 68 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 89 |
| Food index | 95 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 95 |
| Misc index | 90 | 85 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $238,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 22 min | 25 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Kansas City home with the True Cost Calculator.