Is Boise or Seattle more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Boise is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Seattle.
3
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
ID
Boise
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
241,150
Population
726,054
$62,000
Median Income
+70.0%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+20.1%$1,801
$460,000✓
Median Home Price
+66.8%$767,500
29%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
None✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Boise vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Seattle?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Seattle?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Seattle?
Boise. Seattle. 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.