Introduction: More Than Just a Monthly Payment

When buyers start looking for a home in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, or Star, most focus on one number: the mortgage payment. While that’s the biggest piece of the puzzle, it’s not the whole picture. The real cost of homeownership goes well beyond principal and interest.

As someone who works with relocation buyers every week, I’ve seen many families surprised by expenses they didn’t plan for—everything from property taxes and insurance to utilities and HOA dues. This guide breaks down the true cost of owning a home in Boise so you can budget confidently and avoid surprises.

The Core Costs of Homeownership in Boise

Property Taxes in Ada and Canyon Counties

Property taxes vary depending on whether you live in Ada County (Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Star) or Canyon County (Nampa, Caldwell).

• Ada County: Average effective rate around 0.65% of assessed value
• Canyon County: Slightly lower, averaging about 0.60%

Example: On a $500,000 home in Boise, expect roughly $3,250 per year in property taxes.

For exact numbers, check the Ada County Assessor or Canyon County Assessor websites.

Homeowner’s Insurance

In 2025, most Boise-area homeowners pay between $900 and $1,600 annually for homeowner’s insurance. Rates depend on coverage limits, deductible choices, home age, and whether you add optional coverage like flood or earthquake insurance.

Utilities and Monthly Services

Electricity and Natural Gas

Idaho Power provides electricity throughout most of the Treasure Valley. Average monthly costs range from $90 to $150 depending on season and home size.

Intermountain Gas supplies natural gas, with average monthly costs between $40 and $100, higher in winter months.

Water, Sewer, and Trash

Boise residents typically pay $50 to $80 per month for water and sewer services. Trash and recycling add another $20 to $40 per month, depending on provider and service level.

Internet and Cable

Fiber and high-speed internet options such as Sparklight and CenturyLink usually cost $60 to $100 per month. Streaming subscriptions can add another $20 to $60 monthly.

HOA Dues and Community Fees

Master-Planned Communities in Meridian and Eagle

Neighborhoods like Paramount in Meridian or Legacy in Eagle often include HOA dues covering landscaping, pools, parks, and common areas. Fees typically range from $200 to $600 per quarter.

Star and Kuna New Construction Communities

Many newer communities include HOAs to maintain parks, trails, and open spaces. Expect monthly dues of $50 to $100.

Seasonal and Climate-Related Costs

Lawn Care and Irrigation

Boise’s hot, dry summers mean irrigation is essential. Some subdivisions include irrigation water in HOA dues. If not, expect $50 to $100 per month during peak summer usage.

Snow Removal and Winter Prep

In most non-HOA neighborhoods, homeowners are responsible for snow removal. Annual winter prep costs may include furnace tune-ups ($100–$150) and chimney cleaning if applicable ($150–$300).

Maintenance and Repairs

Annual Maintenance Budget

A common rule of thumb is to budget 1–2% of your home’s value annually for maintenance. On a $500,000 home, that’s $5,000 to $10,000 per year.

Common Boise Maintenance Tasks

• HVAC servicing and filter changes
• Roof and gutter inspections after winter
• Sprinkler blowouts in fall ($50–$80)
• Seasonal pest control ($30–$50 per month)

Lifestyle and Location-Based Costs

Commuting and Transportation

Gas prices in the Boise area average between $3.20 and $3.60 per gallon in 2025. Many relocation buyers find commuting costs significantly lower than in larger metro areas, but it’s still worth budgeting.

Recreation and Activities

Boise’s lifestyle is one of its biggest draws. Common recreational expenses include:

• Bogus Basin ski passes: $500–$700 annually
• Boise River float trips or rentals: $20–$60 per outing
• Zoo Boise family memberships: $70–$120 annually

School-Related Costs

Families may also budget for sports, extracurricular activities, school supplies, or private education depending on their situation.

Unexpected Costs New Homeowners Overlook

Appliance Replacement

Even newer homes often include builder-grade appliances. Replacing a full kitchen and laundry set can cost $5,000 to $8,000.

Furniture and Décor

Furnishing extra rooms, patios, and yards adds up quickly. Many homeowners spend several thousand dollars within the first year.

Home Improvements

Landscaping, fencing, basement finishing, and decks are common post-purchase upgrades that should be factored into long-term budgets.

How Boise Compares to Other Markets

• Lower utility costs compared to California and Washington
• Lower property tax rates than states like Texas
• Higher prevalence of HOAs in newer communities

Budgeting Smart as a Boise Homeowner

• Create a monthly budget beyond the mortgage payment
• Build a 3–6 month emergency fund
• Work with a local Realtor who understands neighborhood-specific costs

Conclusion: Plan Ahead, Enjoy Boise Living

Boise is an incredible place to call home, but the true cost of ownership goes beyond the mortgage. When you plan for taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and lifestyle expenses, homeownership becomes far less stressful and far more rewarding.

If you’re relocating to the Treasure Valley, I’d be happy to walk you through the full cost picture and help you decide what makes sense for your family.

📲 Call or text Curtis Chism at 208-510-0427
📥 Ready to relocate remotely? Download our Boise Relocation Guide