Parma, ID vs Smelterville, ID

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Smelterville is 20.8% cheaper than Parma. With a cost index of 67 vs 81, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Smelterville to Parma should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Parma is $955/month compared to $825/month in Smelterville — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Smelterville is more affordable at $117,600 median vs $232,400.

Median household income in Parma is $47,798 compared to $46,597 in Smelterville (+2.6%). Parma does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Parma spend roughly 24% of their income on rent, more than the 21.2% in Smelterville.