Melba, ID vs Paul, ID

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Paul is 16.4% cheaper than Melba. With a cost index of 76 vs 88, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Paul to Melba should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Melba is $993/month compared to $788/month in Paul — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Paul is more affordable at $251,200 median vs $306,000.

Median household income in Melba is $53,500 compared to $62,830 in Paul (-14.8%). Paul offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Melba spend roughly 22.3% of their income on rent, more than the 15.1% in Paul.