Is Boise or San Francisco more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and San Francisco.
4
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
ID
Boise
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
241,150
Population
865,933
$62,000
Median Income
+103.5%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+42.0%$2,130
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+159.7%$1,194,500
29%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
5.80%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°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
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Boise vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or San Francisco?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Boise wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and San Francisco?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or San Francisco?
Boise. San Francisco. 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.