Boise vs Raleigh: cost of living compared
Raleigh is 2% 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, the cost of living is quite similar between Boise and Raleigh, with Boise being just slightly higher. The primary difference stems from housing costs, where Boise is somewhat more expensive for both buying and renting. However, other categories like transportation and utilities can offer savings in Boise, helping to balance the overall budget. Food, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses are roughly comparable in both locations.
Housing
Boise's housing market is a bit more expensive than Raleigh's, whether you are looking to purchase a home or rent a one-bedroom apartment. The median home price in Boise is noticeably higher, though the difference in median rent is smaller, with Raleigh's being slightly more. Both metros offer a mix of housing types, from single-family homes to apartments, reflecting their growing populations. Property taxes and insurance costs will vary by specific location and property.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for food and healthcare are very similar in both metros. However, transportation costs are noticeably lower in Boise, while Raleigh's utilities are somewhat more expensive. A significant difference is state income tax; North Carolina has a state income tax, which Idaho does not, impacting take-home pay. Commute times are generally shorter in Boise, contributing to lower transportation outlays.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Boise offers a high desert climate with distinct seasons, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and proximity to mountains. Getting around is typically car-dependent, with a generally relaxed pace. Raleigh, located in the Southeast, experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, and is also car-centric. Both cities are growing, but Raleigh's larger metropolitan area might feel a bit more bustling. Neither metro is typically associated with major weather risks.
Bottom line
Moving between Boise and Raleigh means navigating a nuanced cost landscape. While Boise's housing is a bit pricier, savings on transportation, utilities, and the absence of a state income tax can offset some of that difference. Raleigh offers slightly more affordable housing and similar costs for many everyday items, but its state income tax and higher utility and transportation expenses could impact your overall budget. A detailed look at individual spending habits is key.
| Measure | Boise, ID | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 100 |
| Housing index | 110 | 106 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 97 |
| Food index | 95 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 88 | 98 |
| Misc index | 90 | 90 |
| Median home price | $418,000 | $388,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,500/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 Raleigh home with the True Cost Calculator.