Cost of Living


When compared to other cities and metro areas of the West, Eastern Idaho's cost of living is generally lower. For necessities such as groceries, housing, healthcare, utilities and transportation, costs in Eastern Idaho are often 30 to 50 percent less than in other areas. For example, the average home in Idaho Falls is priced at $215,772, while in Sacramento, Calif. and Fort Collins, Colo. the average home is priced at $288,900 and $261,667, respectively.

Naturally, similar margins aren't observed for all areas of the country. Still, the message is clear: The cost of living in Eastern Idaho is attractive

% of National Average
Idaho Falls, ID
Los Angeles, CA
Fort Collins, CO
Peoria, IL
Wilmington, NC
Tacoma, WA
Dubuque, IA
Portland, OR
Albuquerque, NM
Utilities 100.2% 119.7% 90.4% 98.7% 90.3% 100.3% 96.7% 116.1% 128.9%
Difference   19.3% -10.0% -1.7% -10.1% -0.1% -3.7% 15.7% 28.5%

Utility Cost Comparisons for Idaho Falls
(SOURCE: ACCRA Cost of Living Index - May 2004)