Is Boise or Chicago more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Chicago.
1
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Chicago wins
ID
Boise
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
241,150
Population
2,742,119
$62,000
Median Income
+6.1%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-19.4%$1,209✓
$460,000
Median Home Price
-39.7%$277,600✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
206 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
12"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Boise vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Chicago?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Chicago?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Chicago?
Boise. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.