Is Boise or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Salt Lake City.
2
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Salt Lake City wins
ID
Boise
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
241,150
Population
199,723
$62,000✓
Median Income
-6.5%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-3.3%$1,450✓
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+4.3%$480,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Boise vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Salt Lake City?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Salt Lake City?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Salt Lake City?
Boise. Salt Lake City. 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.