Quick answer
🟡 Yes, but tightly. A occupational therapist in Boise earns roughly $95,544/yr (~$5,458/mo take-home) and a 1BR costs $1,380/mo — that's 25% of take-home on rent. The standard is 30% or less.
ID · 2026
Can an Occupational Therapist Afford to Live in Boise?
Using local salary estimates and Boise's actual cost of living — rent, taxes, utilities, and groceries — here's the real monthly picture for an occupational therapist in Boise, ID in 2026.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Gross monthly salary
$95,544/yr local estimate
$7,962
Taxes (federal + state + FICA)
5.8% state income tax
-$2,504
Monthly take-home
After all taxes
$5,458
1BR rent
25% of take-home
-$1,380
Utilities
Electric, gas, internet avg
-$135
Groceries
Single-person estimate
-$345
Transport
Car or transit average
-$350
Left for everything else
Dining, clothing, fun, savings
$3,248
At a 40% savings rate on discretionary income, a occupational therapist in Boise could save roughly $15,588/year after covering all essentials.
What Does 25% Rent Burden Mean?
The standard rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of gross income on rent. At 25% of take-home pay, a occupational therapist in Boise is near the limit. Livable, but there's little buffer for emergencies or lifestyle upgrades.
These numbers use a local salary estimate of $95,544/yr — adjusted from the national Occupational Therapist median of $96,370/yr based on Boise's cost of living index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and specialization.
Best Neighborhoods in Boise for a Occupational Therapist
Based on walkability, rent levels, and quality of life — not just lowest price.
North End
Tree-lined streets, Foothills trailhead minutes away, most desirable, established; 1BR $1,400–1,900
Hyde Park
Walkable village strip, independent shops, bungalows, community feel; 1BR $1,300–1,700
Linen District / Downtown
Craft breweries, restaurants, galleries, most urban feel; 1BR $1,400–1,900
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Occupational Therapist in Boise?
A Occupational Therapist in Boise earns approximately $95,544 per year, based on the national BLS median of $96,370/yr adjusted for Boise's cost of living. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and specialization.
Is Boise affordable for a occupational therapist in 2026?
Manageable. Rent takes 25% of take-home, which is right at the limit. A occupational therapist can make it work but should keep other expenses lean.
How much take-home pay does a Occupational Therapist get in Boise?
After federal taxes, 5.8% state income tax, and FICA, a Occupational Therapist earning $95,544/yr takes home roughly $5,458/month in Boise.
What is the rent-to-income ratio for a Occupational Therapist in Boise?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Boise costs a median of $1,380/month. On a Occupational Therapist salary, that's 25% of monthly take-home pay. Financial experts recommend keeping this below 30%.