Is Boise or Phoenix more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Phoenix.
1
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
ID
Boise
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
241,150
Population
1,608,139
$62,000
Median Income
-0.0%$62,000
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,650
$460,000
Median Home Price
-8.7%$420,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Boise vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Phoenix?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Phoenix?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Phoenix?
Boise. Phoenix. 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.