The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Programmers: Boise vs Kent

Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.

Boise, ID

$80,900/yr

Take-home$4,921/mo
Disposable$2,354/mo
Lifestyle7/10 ยท Moderate
Best Value

Kent, WA

$167,970/yr

Take-home$10,218/mo
Disposable$7,410/mo
Lifestyle10/10 ยท Comfortable
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: Kent, WA

Kent offers $5,056 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.

Full Breakdown

Boise

Kent

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$80,900

$167,970

$87,070

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$4,921

$10,218

$5,297

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

96

105

-9 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$2,567

$2,808

$241

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$1,490

$1,650

$160

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$2,354

$7,410

$5,056

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

1.92ร—

3.64ร—

-1.72ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

7/10 (Moderate)

10/10 (Comfortable)

-3

A vs B

Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.