Boise vs New Orleans: cost of living compared
New Orleans is 10% 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, New Orleans offers a noticeably lower cost of living compared to Boise. The primary driver of this difference is housing, which is significantly more expensive in Boise. While some categories like transportation and utilities are more favorable in Boise, these savings are generally outweighed by the substantial housing costs, making New Orleans the more budget-friendly option for many everyday expenses.
Housing
Housing costs present a major contrast. Both buying a home and renting a one-bedroom apartment are considerably more expensive in Boise than in New Orleans. New Orleans features a diverse housing stock, including historic homes and more compact urban living, often at a lower price point. Boise's housing, while generally newer in some areas, commands a much higher premium, impacting both initial purchase and ongoing ownership costs.
Taxes and everyday costs
When considering daily expenses, New Orleans has a state income tax, unlike Idaho which has its own income tax structure. Transportation costs are lower in Boise, and utilities are also more affordable there. Food expenses are roughly similar in both cities, and healthcare costs are slightly lower in Boise. These differences mean that while some daily spending categories are cheaper in Boise, the overall impact of housing in New Orleans often leads to a lower total monthly outlay.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, the metros offer distinct lifestyles. Boise, nestled in the high desert, experiences four distinct seasons with warm, dry summers and snowy winters, and offers abundant outdoor recreation. New Orleans, with its humid subtropical climate, has hot, long summers and mild winters, known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and unique culinary scene. Commute times are generally shorter in Boise, reflecting a less congested urban environment compared to New Orleans' more dense, historic layout.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the financial implications are clear: New Orleans generally presents a more affordable option, primarily due to its significantly lower housing costs. While Boise offers savings in transportation and utilities, these are typically not enough to offset the higher price of homes and rent. Your budget will stretch further in New Orleans, allowing for more discretionary spending or savings, especially if housing is your top financial consideration.
| Measure | Boise, ID | New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 92 |
| Housing index | 110 | 74 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 93 |
| Food index | 95 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 108 |
| Misc index | 90 | 88 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $248,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,200/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 New Orleans home with the True Cost Calculator.