The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Programmers: Carson City vs Boise

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

Best Value

Carson City, NV

$98,942/yr

Take-home$6,019/mo
Disposable$3,609/mo
Lifestyle9/10 ยท Comfortable

Boise, ID

$80,900/yr

Take-home$4,921/mo
Disposable$2,354/mo
Lifestyle7/10 ยท Moderate
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: Carson City, NV

Carson City offers $1,255 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.

Full Breakdown

Carson City

Boise

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$98,942

$80,900

+$18,042

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$6,019

$4,921

+$1,098

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

93

96

-3 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$2,410

$2,567

$157

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$1,386

$1,490

$104

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$3,609

$2,354

+$1,255

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

2.50ร—

1.92ร—

+0.58ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

9/10 (Comfortable)

7/10 (Moderate)

+2

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.