Which City Is More Affordable: Boulder City or Enterprise?

Boulder City, NV vs. Enterprise, NV: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Deciding between Boulder City and Enterprise, Nevada? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences in housing, utilities, groceries and more to help you choose the best fit for your budget and lifestyle in 2025.

A quiet neighborhood park in Boulder City, Nevada with trimmed hedges and a wooden bench
Boulder City offers small-town charm and affordability, with lower housing costs than nearby cities.

Housing Costs

Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare in Boulder City vs Enterprise:

Housing TypeBoulder CityEnterprise
2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent)$1,350$1,550
3BR House (Median Price)$450,000$525,000

๐Ÿ† Winner: Boulder City. Housing costs an average of 15% less in Boulder City compared to Enterprise.

Utilities and Energy Costs

An apartment building in Enterprise, Nevada with potted plants and bicycles by the doors
Rental costs are about 15% higher in Enterprise compared to Boulder City, a key factor in the cost of living difference between the two cities.

Utility bills are another key monthly expense. In Boulder City, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 2BR apartment, with costs rising about 20% in the hot summer months to keep up with AC usage. Enterprise utility bills average $210 monthly.

๐Ÿ† Winner: Boulder City. Utility costs run about 15% lower in Boulder City vs Enterprise.

Groceries and Daily Expenses

For a typical family of 4, monthly grocery costs average $850 in Boulder City compared to $925 in Enterprise. Eating out is also more affordable in Boulder City, with a mid-range dinner for two averaging $50 vs $65 in Enterprise.

๐Ÿ† Winner: Boulder City. Expect to spend about 10% less on groceries and dining out in Boulder City.

Taxes and Fees

Nevada has no state income tax, so the biggest tax factor is property tax. Boulder City’s property tax rate is 0.65% vs 0.70% in Enterprise. For a $450K home, that’s a difference of $225 per year.

HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $200-500 per month. This often includes community amenities, landscaping, and trash service.

๐Ÿ† Winner: Boulder City. Lower property taxes give Boulder City a slight edge.

Cost Summary

ExpenseBoulder CityEnterprise
Housing (3BR mortgage*)$1,900$2,200
Utilities$180$210
Groceries$850$925
Transportation$500$450
Taxes (property tax)$245$265
Misc Expenses$800$800
Estimated Monthly Total$4,475$4,850

*Based on 10% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% interest. Adjust for your situation.

The bottom line? Living in Boulder City costs about $375 less per month compared to Enterprise for a typical family, largely due to lower housing, utility, and grocery costs. Of course, your exact cost of living depends on your lifestyle and spending habits.

To get a personalized look at your average monthly expenses in Boulder City, use our budget calculator. You can also dive deeper into the full cost of living in Boulder City, including housing, food, healthcare, and more.

Lifestyle Fit

Cost is just one factor in choosing between Boulder City and Enterprise. Also consider:

  • Boulder City offers a quaint, small-town vibe with locally-owned shops and cafes. Enterprise has more chain stores and a suburban feel.
  • Commute times are shorter in Boulder City, with most residents working locally. Enterprise means a longer drive to jobs in Henderson or Las Vegas.
  • Summer highs average 5ยฐF cooler in Boulder City thanks to its higher elevation and location near Lake Mead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boulder City more affordable than Enterprise?
Yes, the cost of living is about 8% lower in Boulder City, mainly due to cheaper housing, utilities, and groceries.

Which city has lower rent?
Rents are around 15% lower in Boulder City. Expect to pay about $1,350 for a 2BR apartment vs $1,550 in Enterprise.

Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Boulder City has lower home prices, with the median 3BR house costing $450,000 compared to $525,000 in Enterprise.

The Bottom Line

While Enterprise has its perks, Boulder City comes out ahead for affordability in this 2025 cost of living comparison. A family moving from Enterprise to Boulder City could save around $375 per month on core living expenses.

Of course, numbers don’t tell the full story. Your ideal fit depends on your lifestyle, commute, and community preferences too. Wherever you land, we’re here to help you navigate the cost of living in Nevada.