Idaho cost of living
Moving to a new state is a mix of emotions — it can be full of new possibilities but also challenging and a bit scary. While a fresh start offers exciting opportunities and experiences, it's important to consider the practical side of things, too. Building new friendships, finding support and getting to know your way around takes time.
Moving can also be costly and emotionally draining. Whether you're relocating to Idaho for a job, a change of scenery or any other reason, understanding the cost of living in the state is crucial for a smooth transition.
The median rent in Idaho is $1,417.08, versus the national median rent of $1,529.01.
Jump to insightResidents in Idaho spend $257.54 weekly on food at home and $82.94 on food out.
Jump to insightAs of publishing, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $3.61 in Idaho.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Idaho pay $1,358 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightHousing costs in Idaho
According to recent data from Zillow, the median rent in Idaho is $1,417.08, while the national median rent is $1,529.01.
Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows rent prices in Idaho broken down by home size. As of publishing, one-bedroom apartments in Idaho had a median cost of $839 per month, and the two-bedroom median cost was $1,045 per month. Three- and four-bedroom homes had median costs of $1,395 and $1,695, respectively.
As of publishing, the median home price in Idaho is $476,000, according to Redfin. The U.S. median home price is $436,000. Data from the National Association of Realtors shows a median home price of $471,500 for the Boise metro area, which includes Nampa, in the first quarter of 2024.
Idaho ranks No. 38 for highest effective property tax rates in the nation, according to the most recent Tax Foundation data, at 0.67%.
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Food costs in Idaho
According to recent census data, the average spent weekly on food to prepare at home in Idaho is $257.54, compared with the U.S. average of $270.21 at the time. Idaho residents spend an average of $82.94 weekly on food prepared outside the home, compared with the U.S. average of $109.21.
Transportation costs in Idaho
According to recent data from AAA, the average price per gallon of regular gas in Idaho is $3.61, compared with the U.S. average of $3.46.
The most recent National Association of Insurance Commissioners data shows that the average auto insurance premium (liability, collision and comprehensive coverage combined) in Idaho is $848.44, versus the national average of $1,189.50.
Public transportation costs
As of publishing, there are 27 different transit providers throughout the state of Idaho that offer public transportation to residents. While most public transportation is by bus, there is one Amtrak station in Sandpoint, on a route that includes Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis and Chicago. Bus fares start at $1.50 for a single ride and $2.50 for an all-day pass in the state’s capital, Boise, as of June 2024.
Health care costs in Idaho
The most recent KFF data shows that, on average, employer-sponsored health insurance cost Idaho employees $1,358 annually, with employers covering the remaining $5,934 of the $7,292 total cost.
Nationwide, the average employee contribution was $1,637 out of a total premium of $7,590.
Utility costs in Idaho
According to the most recent data from the Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electric bill in Idaho is $104.23, versus $135.25 countrywide.
Recent EIA data also shows that natural gas in Idaho costs $8.29 per thousand cubic feet, compared with $13.25 nationally.
FAQ
Is Idaho safe?
Yes — Idaho ranked No. 8 in our list of the safest states in the U.S. in 2023.
What are the most expensive cities in Idaho?
According to 2022 census data, the Boise and Coeur d'Alene metros have the highest median rent prices in Idaho. Still, Idaho made the top 10 in our list of the best states for renters in 2024.
How much do I need to make to live in Boise, Idaho?
Our study on income required to live in various U.S. cities showed that a single adult would need a salary of $69,962.43 to live comfortably in Boise.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Zillow, "Housing Data." Accessed May 14, 2024.
- Redfin, "Redfin Data Center." Accessed May 14, 2024.
- Tax Foundation, "Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?" Accessed May 14, 2024.
- United States Census Bureau, "Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30." Accessed May 14, 2024.
- AAA Gas Prices, "State Gas Price Averages." Accessed June 14, 2024.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, "2020/2021 Auto Insurance Database Report." Accessed May 14, 2024.
- KFF, "Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance." Accessed May 14, 2024.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, "2022 Average Monthly Bill- Residential." Accessed May 14, 2024.
