Cost of Living in Meridian, ID
Population 124,865 · Idaho · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Meridian's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $98,686 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail. An unemployment rate of 2.4% points to a labor market well on the tight side of the national distribution.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Meridian
The median home value in Meridian is $485,000 — 59% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,714/month, 30% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $98,686/year is 32% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 2.4%, below the national average of 4.8%. Idaho's top state income tax rate is 5.8% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Meridian has a cost of living index of 148 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 48% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Meridian, ID?
Meridian has a cost index of 148 (100 = national average). It is 48% above the national average.
What is average rent in Meridian, ID?
The median gross rent in Meridian is $1,714 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Meridian?
The median home value in Meridian is $485,000 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Meridian?
The median household income in Meridian is $98,686 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Meridian, ID?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Meridian is 6.0%. The Idaho state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Meridian, ID affordable?
Meridian is above average in cost of living, with an index of 148 — about 48% higher than the national average.
Meridian at a Glance
- Population
- 124,865
- Median Income
- $98,686
- Home Value
- $485,000
- Median Rent
- $1,714/mo
- Unemployment
- 2.4%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Idaho Rankings
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