Caldwell, ID vs Meridian, ID

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Caldwell is 24.8% cheaper than Meridian. With a cost index of 94 vs 125, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Caldwell to Meridian should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Caldwell is $1,135/month compared to $1,714/month in Meridian — a 34% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Caldwell is more affordable at $322,100 median vs $485,000.

Median household income in Caldwell is $66,663 compared to $98,686 in Meridian (-32.4%). While Meridian is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Caldwell spend roughly 20.4% of their income on rent, less than the 20.8% in Meridian.