Is Boise or San Jose more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and San Jose.
3
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
ID
Boise
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
241,150
Population
1,013,240
$62,000
Median Income
+89.5%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+66.7%$2,500
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+139.1%$1,100,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
5.80%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
15"
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 Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Boise vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or San Jose?
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 San Jose?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or San Jose?
Boise. San Jose. 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.