Idaho local data guide
Median Household Income: Boise vs. National Average
As of the most recent 2024 U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the median household income in Boise, Idaho, is $83,904. This figure is slightly higher than the national median household income, which is estimated at $83,730 by the Current Population Survey (CPS) or $81,604 by the American Community Survey (ACS) for the same period.
Updated with grounded research as of 2026-07-21.
The short answer
Boise’s median household income of $83,904 in 2024 reflects a local economy that is closely aligned with, and slightly exceeds, the national median. While Boise residents generally earn at levels comparable to the U.S. average, local housing market dynamics and cost-of-living variables are essential to consider when evaluating this data for relocation or financial planning purposes.
Key facts
- Boise Median Household Income (2024)
- $83,904
- U.S. National Median Household Income (2024)
- $83,730 (CPS ASEC) / $81,604 (ACS)
Income Comparison and Context
In 2024, the median household income in Boise reached $83,904. When evaluated against national benchmarks, Boise sits slightly above both the CPS national estimate of $83,730 and the ACS estimate of $81,604. This positioning suggests that the typical Boise household maintains an income level consistent with the broader national economic profile.
- Boise income levels have shown steady growth, reflecting local economic development trends.
- Local earnings should be weighed against the specific cost-of-living and housing market conditions in Ada County, which may differ significantly from national averages.
Understanding Census Data Sources
The U.S. Census Bureau utilizes two primary surveys to track income: the Current Population Survey (CPS) and the American Community Survey (ACS). Understanding their differences is key to interpreting the statistics correctly.
- Current Population Survey (CPS ASEC): Considered the gold standard for national-level income trends, providing the $83,730 figure.
- American Community Survey (ACS): Offers more granular geographic detail, such as data for specific cities like Boise, providing the $81,604 national benchmark for comparison.
Planning for Relocation and Housing
For those planning a move to Idaho, median income data provides only one piece of the financial puzzle. While Boise’s median income is competitive, housing affordability and local property values fluctuate based on broader market demand and inventory levels.
- Consult local housing market reports to compare household income against median property values in specific Boise neighborhoods.
- Use these income figures as a baseline, but supplement them with individual cost-of-living calculators to better understand purchasing power in the Treasure Valley.
Common questions
Why are there two different national median income numbers?
The Census Bureau uses two different surveys. The CPS is designed to provide highly accurate national-level trends, while the ACS is designed to provide detailed data for smaller geographic areas like cities and counties. These methodological differences lead to slight variations in the resulting figures.
Does this income data account for cost of living?
No. These figures represent raw median household income. They do not account for local differences in housing costs, taxes, or the price of goods and services, which can impact the 'real' value of an income in Boise compared to other parts of the U.S.
Related Idaho questions
- What is the cost of living index for Boise compared to the national average?
- What is the current poverty rate in Boise, Idaho?
- How has the median property value in Boise changed since 2024?