Cost of Living in Pocatello, ID

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Pocatello? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,194 per year — combining federal taxes with Idaho's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,173/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Pocatello metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $45,730, or roughly $3,811 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Pocatello metro has a cost of living index of 71.1 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 29% below the national average, Pocatello is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Pocatello represents approximately 20% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.