Cost of living in Boise
Boise, the capital city of Idaho, is known for its vibrant culture and outdoor recreational opportunities. Understanding the cost of living in Boise is crucial for anyone considering moving to or residing in this city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $19.5 on average, with a range between $15 and $21.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $70, with prices ranging from $60 to $120.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $10, with a range between $9.5 and $12.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $8, imported beer $4.5 to $8.85, cappuccino $3.25 to $10, and Coke/Pepsi $2.35 to $4.1.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.76 and $1.13 per liter, averaging $0.88.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.98 and $5.51, with an average price of $3.11.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2 to $3.99, averaging $3.17.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $1.76 to $6.61 per kg, while oranges range from $1.98 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.88 and $4.41 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.5 to $2.5 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $1.5 and $2.5, with a monthly pass priced between $42 and $60.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.87 and $1.08 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.6, with a cost of $1.5 to $4.35 per km and $24 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1400 to $2000, averaging $1555.36.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1200 to $1750, averaging $1342.22.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2300 to $2900, averaging $2475.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1750 to $2300, averaging $2031.88.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $3068 to $6996.54, averaging $4700.34.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $3068 to $4111.81, averaging $3334.26.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $100 and $212.5, averaging $139.24.
- Internet - Internet services range from $65 to $90, with an average cost of $75.47.
Cost of Living Rankings
Boise ranks 38th on the Cost of Living rankings in United States. The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Boise offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States. Housing costs are moderate, with a variety of options available both in the city centre and outside.
Dining out can be affordable, especially at casual restaurants, while grocery prices remain competitive. Transportation costs are reasonable, with public transport and fuel prices being quite accessible.
Utilities and internet services are moderately priced, making Boise a balanced choice for those looking to manage their expenses effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Boise, ID, presents a balanced cost of living that caters to a wide range of budgets. With moderate housing costs, affordable dining options, and reasonable transportation expenses, it is an attractive city for both individuals and families.
Whether you're planning to move to Boise or are already a resident, understanding these costs can help you make informed financial decisions and enjoy what the city has to offer.