Boise vs Idaho Falls Water Quality
Side-by-side water quality comparison for two Idaho cities.
If you are comparing Boise and Idaho Falls water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.
Hardness comparison
Boise has somewhat harder water at 110 PPM versus Idaho Falls at 91 PPM, a difference of 19 PPM. Idaho Falls has moderate hardness where a softener is optional.
Water sources and why they differ
Water sources differ: Boise draws from Boise River + groundwater, while Idaho Falls uses Snake River. The mix of groundwater and surface water explains much of the hardness difference.
What this means for you
Not sure what your specific situation needs? Take the quiz to get a recommendation based on your water data, budget, and household size.
| Metric | Boise | Idaho Falls |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 110 PPM | 91 PPM |
| GPG | 6.4 | 5.3 |
| TDS | 170 PPM | 94 PPM |
| PFAS | 0 ppt | 0 ppt |
| Lead | 2 ppb | 4 ppb |
| Chlorine | 0.4 mg/L | 0.5 mg/L |
| Level | Moderately Hard | Moderately Hard |
FAQ
Which has harder water, Boise or Idaho Falls?
Boise has harder water at 110 PPM compared to Idaho Falls at 91 PPM. That is a difference of 19 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Idaho Falls to Boise?
Probably not. At 110 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Idaho Falls water safe to drink?
Idaho Falls water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.