Salaries in Caldwell, ID

Here’s the funny thing about Caldwell: you can make a solid six-figure salary as a software developer here, but you’ll probably be working next to a guy who’s installing your home’s wiring. It’s a city of sharp contrasts, where tech money is quietly flowing into a place that still feels like classic Idaho.

With a cost of living index of 93.4, you’re getting a real bargain. That $57,564 national average salary doesn’t just buy you a 1BR apartment for $1,074 a month—it gives you room to breathe. Your purchasing power here is about 7% better than the typical American city, which is a bigger deal than it sounds when you’re doing the monthly budget math.

Caldwell’s economy is a two-engine story. You have the tech sector, pulling in developers at $124,740, likely serving the broader Boise metro. Then you have the backbone of the community: healthcare, education, and skilled trades. The College of Idaho is a major employer, and the region’s agricultural roots mean electricians and accountants are always in demand. It’s not a single-industry town, which is a huge plus for stability.

My honest take? Wages are decent for the cost, but they’re not exploding. That 3% unemployment rate means employers are competing for workers, but they’re not throwing money around recklessly. This city works beautifully for a software developer who can command a remote salary or a registered nurse who wants their paycheck to stretch. If you’re in a lower-paying field, you can still live comfortably, but you’re not getting ahead fast.

Below, we’ll break down exactly what your skills are worth in this market and how Caldwell stacks up for your career.