Living Cost Compare

Cost of Living in Idaho

Based on 1 city we track in Idaho.

Cost of living in Idaho is shaped mostly by rent across the 1 city we track there. A one-bedroom apartment runs around $1,133 a month — 8% higher than the $1,052 median across the 51 states we track.

Median household income across those cities is $81,308, 21% higher than the $67,043 median across the states we track. Idaho has a top state income tax rate of 5.30% and a 6% state sales tax.

State Medians

Median 1BR Rent
$1,133
Median Home Value
$456,000
Median Income
$81,308
Avg Temperature
52.5°F

Medians across the Idaho cities we track — not a statewide population-weighted figure.

State Taxes

State Sales Tax
6%
State Income Tax (top rate)
Up to 5.30%

Cities in Idaho

Compare Idaho with

Idaho cost of living — FAQ

Is Idaho expensive to live in?
Idaho is on the pricier side of the 51 states we track. Its median one-bedroom rent of $1,133 ranks #22 of 51 and is 8% higher than the $1,052 median.
What is the average rent in Idaho?
Across the 1 city we track in Idaho, average rent runs a studio around $1,021, a one-bedroom around $1,133, a two-bedroom around $1,342, a three-bedroom around $1,749 per month (US Census ACS).
What is the median home price in Idaho?
The median home value across the cities we track in Idaho is $456,000 — 59% higher than the $287,500 median across the states we track.
Does Idaho have a state income tax?
Yes — Idaho's top state income tax rate is 5.30% (most filers pay less than the top rate). Its state sales tax rate is 6%; local jurisdictions may add more.
How much do you need to earn to live in Idaho?
To keep a one-bedroom rent of $1,133 near the recommended 30% of gross income, you'd want to earn roughly $45,000 a year. Median household income across the cities we track in Idaho is $81,308.

Sources: US Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year; NOAA Climate Normals 1981–2010; Tax Foundation 2026 (state taxes).