Is Boise or Sacramento more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Sacramento.
4
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Sacramento wins
ID
Boise
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
241,150
Population
524,943
$62,000✓
Median Income
-2.1%$60,715
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,650
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+8.7%$500,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
5.80%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Boise vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Sacramento?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boise wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Sacramento?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Sacramento?
Boise. Sacramento. 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.