Buhl, ID vs Montpelier, ID

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Montpelier is 27.6% cheaper than Buhl. With a cost index of 67 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Montpelier to Buhl should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Buhl is $1,265/month compared to $639/month in Montpelier — a 98% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Montpelier is more affordable at $185,600 median vs $192,600.

Median household income in Buhl is $46,217 compared to $52,212 in Montpelier (-11.5%). Montpelier offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Buhl spend roughly 32.8% of their income on rent, more than the 14.7% in Montpelier. The Montpelier ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.