Columbus is 9% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Columbus to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,711
$1,314
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,537
$1,116
💵 Families earn per year
$90,490
$62,632
🔑 Buying a house
$484,800
$193,900
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
98.4
89.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$2,883
$1,660
⚡ Electric bill per month
$93
$173
👥 People living there
237,242
203,711
Commute to work
18.9 min
20.9 min
College degree
47.5%
30.5%
Own their home
63.2%
50.8%
Below poverty line
10.6%
19%
Unemployment
3.6%
6.3%
Bottom line
- Pick Boise City for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Columbus for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Boise City | Columbus | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $35,830 | $20,800 | -42% in Columbus |
| Police Officer | $84,940 | $49,990 | -41% in Columbus |
| Firefighter | $76,280 | $48,770 | -36% in Columbus |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $81,280 | $103,410 | +27% in Columbus |
| Medical Assistant | $46,310 | $36,050 | -22% in Columbus |
| Civil Engineer | $99,510 | $77,600 | -22% in Columbus |
| Truck Driver | $60,330 | $47,570 | -21% in Columbus |
| Retail Salesperson | $35,670 | $28,180 | -21% in Columbus |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boise City or Columbus cheaper to live in?
Columbus is about 9% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,314 a month there versus $1,711 in Boise City.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match $60,000 in Boise City?
About $54,454 a year gives the same standard of living in Columbus.
Where do people earn more, Boise City or Columbus?
The typical household earns $90,490 in Boise City and $62,632 in Columbus, 44% more in Boise City.