Yes, Idaho can be a great place to live—if you know what you’re signing up for.
Moving to Idaho could mean more space, lower crime, and a slower pace—or more isolation and fewer opportunities. Here's what you need to know before you decide.
This guide will give you a clear, honest picture of living in Idaho. You’ll get a breakdown of the real pros and cons, the best towns and cities for families, professionals, and retirees, and the facts that matter most—from home prices and crime rates to school districts and job markets.
Whether you're curious about the Snake River Canyon, wondering what life is like in Twin Falls, or researching how affordable housing compares to the national average, you’ll find the answers here.
What You’ll Learn
What are the pros of living in Idaho?
What are the challenges of living in Idaho?
Which Idaho cities and towns are the best fit for you?
Overview
Yes, Idaho can be a good place to live for reasons such as affordability, outdoor access, and a slower pace of life, but it might not be ideal due to limited public transportation, job opportunities outside of main cities, and potentially harsh winters depending on location.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Pros of Living in Idaho
Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty: Idaho offers numerous state parks, rivers, and mountains for activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing.
Lower Crime Rates: Many areas, especially smaller towns, experience lower crime rates compared to national averages.
Affordable Housing Prices: Housing costs are generally lower than in neighboring states, making it attractive for many.
Slower Pace and Community: A focus on community and a relaxed pace are common in many Idaho towns.
Tax Benefits: Idaho has favorable tax policies for retirees, including no tax on Social Security income.
Cons of Living in Idaho
Limited Public Transportation: Most areas require personal vehicles due to the lack of robust public transit systems.
Healthcare Access Issues: Rural areas often face shortages in healthcare providers and services.
Job Market Variability: Job opportunities are stronger in larger cities but may be limited in rural regions.
Harsh Winters: Northern Idaho can experience significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
School Quality Disparities: School quality varies, with some districts facing resource and performance challenges.
Rising Urban Crime: Larger cities like Boise have seen increases in crime rates in recent years.
Best Places to Live in Idaho
For Families (Meridian, Eagle, Post Falls): These areas offer good schools, parks, and family-friendly environments.
For Young Professionals (Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls): These cities provide job opportunities, cultural scenes, and recreational options.
For Retirees (Twin Falls, Sandpoint, Pocatello): These towns offer affordability, scenic beauty, and a slower pace of life suitable for retirement.
Other Notable Considerations
Fly Problems: Some rural areas may experience seasonal fly issues, especially near livestock.
Tornado Risk: Tornadoes are rare in Idaho and typically weak.
In-Migration from California: Many people are moving to Idaho from California for reasons like lower costs and lifestyle.
Before You Move, Get the Full Picture
A lot of people move to Idaho hoping for peace and space. And in many places, that’s exactly what they find.
But if you're thinking about living in Idaho, there’s more to think about than pretty photos and low prices. Day-to-day life here can feel calm and welcoming—or it can feel slow and limited. It depends on where you move and what you expect.
This article will help you figure that out. We’ll walk through what’s great, what’s hard, and what surprises people after they settle in. You’ll learn which towns and cities are best for your needs—whether you’re raising kids, working remotely, or planning retirement.
Pros of Living in Idaho
Idaho has seen a steady increase in population for over a decade. Many people come for the wide-open spaces, lower living costs, and slower pace.
1. Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty
Idaho is one of the best places in the country for people who love nature and outdoor activities.
According to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, the state’s 30+ parks brought in over 7.4 million visitors in 2023, a record-breaking number. That includes both residents and travelers drawn to the state’s hiking trails, lakes, and rivers.
Idaho offers year-round access to fishing, horseback riding, and backpacking. The Snake River, Frank Church River, and other numerous rivers flow through most regions, giving people easy access to nature.
Sites like Shoshone Falls, which is taller than Niagara Falls, and the Sawtooth Mountains, are part of what gives Idaho its strong appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
2. Crime Rates in Rural Areas
While crime is rising in parts of the country, Idaho remains one of the safer states.
Meridian, one of the largest suburbs in the Boise metro area, has a total crime rate of 893 per 100,000 people, which is 66.8% lower than the national average, according to AreaVibes.
Statewide, Idaho ranks among the states with the lowest violent and property crime rates. NeighborhoodScout reports that Idaho has a violent crime rate of 2.3 per 1,000 residents, compared to the national median of 4.0.
Many rural areas and small towns also report low crime levels, which have been decreasing for some time.
3. Housing Prices
Buying a home in Idaho is often cheaper than in nearby states like Oregon or Washington.
In Twin Falls, the median listing home price in March 2025 was $419,900, with a median sold price of $363,400, according to Realtor.com.
Boise is more expensive, with a typical home value of $504,848 as of April 2025. But that's still lower than many West Coast metros. By comparison, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that the national median sales price of new houses sold in the U.S. was $403,600 in March 2025.
Home Value Comparison – April 2025
This makes Idaho an affordable option for buyers looking to escape high prices in bigger states. Many small cities and rural areas remain even more budget-friendly.
4. Life Pace and Community
The day-to-day pace in Idaho tends to be slower, and many towns prioritize community over speed.
In smaller cities like Post Falls, Sandpoint, and Pocatello, you’re more likely to know your neighbors, join local events, and feel part of a close-knit community.
For many residents, the lower population density, short commutes, and lighter traffic make Idaho a good place to live if you're looking to step back from the rush of big-city life.
The Idaho Rural Partnership also highlights that small town life here supports stronger family connections and local involvement.
5. Tax Policies
Idaho’s tax rates are appealing to many older adults looking to retire on a budget.
The state does not tax Social Security income, which helps stretch retirement dollars.
Idaho offers a “circuit breaker” property tax reduction for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
Investopedia lists two Idaho cities—such as Pocatello and Twin Falls—among its top 10 areas that offer affordability for retirees citing a balance of low housing costs and a tax-friendly environment.
These benefits, along with access to scenic towns, continue to attract retirees seeking peace without losing access to services.
Cons of Living in Idaho
Idaho may offer natural beauty, affordable housing, and a slower pace, but like any place, it has trade-offs. If you're thinking about moving to Idaho, it’s just as important to know what may not work for you.
1. Public Transportation
If you rely on buses or trains, most parts of Idaho will be hard to navigate.
According to the Idaho Transportation Department, many communities—especially in rural areas—do not have public transportation options at all. In some counties, services exist only for seniors or people with disabilities.
Even in Boise, the largest metro area in the state, Valley Regional Transit (VRT) offers limited bus routes and operating hours. There’s no train service or high-capacity transit, and buses do not run late at night.
For most people, owning a car is necessary—especially in rural areas or small cities like Pocatello or Idaho Falls.
2. Healthcare Access
People in rural areas may face serious obstacles when it comes to seeing a doctor.
According to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, more than 88% of Idaho is considered rural, and many of these areas are federally designated as medically underserved.
The state struggles with shortages in mental health providers, primary care physicians, and emergency medical services in many regions outside larger cities like Boise or Twin Falls.
3. Job Opportunities
Some parts of Idaho are thriving, but others have fewer jobs and limited industries.
Strong job growth is happening in Boise, Idaho Falls, and Coeur d’Alene—mostly in healthcare, manufacturing, and tech.
Many rural counties continue to depend on agriculture, which offers seasonal or lower-paying jobs.
The state’s unemployment rate was 3.8% in March 2025, close to the national average, but it was significantly higher in remote counties such as Adams and Clark.
4. Harsh Winters
The northern part of the state can see months of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
Cities like Coeur d’Alene receive about 42 inches of snow per year, with average January lows around the mid‑20s °F. Sub‑20°F nights are not uncommon, and winter conditions often bring icy roads and hazardous travel.
This long, cold season can be a shock for new residents coming from milder neighboring states like California or Oregon.
5. School Quality
Some Idaho schools perform well, but others lack resources.
Salmon had faced 12 failed bond attempts since 2006, with issues like crumbling foundations, failing sewer systems, and reliance on portable buildings. Meanwhile, school districts in more rural parts of the state, such as Shoshone County, continue to grapple with persistent teaching staffing shortages.
The state ranked 29th nationally in public education quality in a U.S. News & World Report study, based on metrics like high school graduation rates and standardized test scores.
6. Crime Rates in Urban Areas
Although Idaho still ranks as one of the safer U.S. states, urban crime is slowly increasing.
Boise’s crime rate has risen in recent years. According to NeighborhoodScout, the chance of becoming a victim of property or violent crime in Boise is 1 in 66, slightly worse than the national median.
Theft, burglary, and some assaults have increased in growing cities like Nampa and Caldwell, often linked to population growth and housing strain.
Best Places to Live in Idaho
Choosing where to live in Idaho depends on your lifestyle, budget, and future goals. Whether you're raising a family, starting your career, or enjoying retirement, Idaho offers a range of small towns, larger cities, and rural areas that match different needs.
For Families
1. Meridian - Meridian is renowned for its family-friendly environment, boasting top-rated schools and low crime rates. The city offers numerous parks and recreational facilities, making it ideal for families seeking a safe and active community.
Population: Approximately 125,000
Median Home Price: $540,000
2. Eagle - Eagle combines suburban tranquility with access to urban amenities. Families appreciate its spacious homes, quality schools, and community events that foster a close-knit atmosphere.
Population: Approximately 31,000
Median Home Price: $780,000
3. Post Falls - Located near Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls offers affordable housing and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, making it attractive for families who enjoy nature.
Population: Approximately 38,000
Median Home Price: $445,000
For Young Professionals
1. Boise - Boise is Idaho's capital and largest city, offering a vibrant downtown, diverse job opportunities, and a growing tech scene. Young professionals are drawn to its blend of urban living and outdoor recreation.
Population: Approximately 235,000
Median Home Price: $498,000
2. Coeur d’Alene - This city is known for its stunning lake views, art galleries, and a lively downtown. It's a hub for remote workers and entrepreneurs seeking a balance between work and leisure.
Population: Approximately 55,000
Median Home Price: $584,000
3. Idaho Falls - Idaho Falls offers a lower cost of living and is home to the Idaho National Laboratory, providing opportunities in energy and technology sectors. Its proximity to national parks adds to its appeal.
Population: Approximately 64,000
Median Home Price: $390,000
For Retirees
1. Twin Falls - Twin Falls combines natural beauty with affordability. Retirees enjoy the scenic Snake River Canyon and access to quality healthcare facilities.
Population: Approximately 50,000
Median Home Price: $363,000
2. Sandpoint - Nestled by Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers a peaceful setting with a vibrant arts scene. It's ideal for retirees seeking a serene lifestyle with cultural enrichment.
Population: Approximately 8,000
Median Home Price: $550,000
3. Pocatello - Pocatello provides a small-town feel with access to amenities like Idaho State University. Retirees appreciate its affordability and community-focused atmosphere.
Population: Approximately 56,000
Median Home Price: $320,000
Moving to Idaho? AmeriFreight Can Ship Your Car
By now, you’ve seen both the upsides and the challenges of living in Idaho. You know which cities and towns might be the best fit, what kind of lifestyle to expect, and how the cost of living compares to your current home.
If you're serious about moving to Idaho, don’t forget about your car. Idaho is a car-dependent state, and having your vehicle with you from day one can make settling in a lot easier—especially in areas with limited public transportation.
That’s where AmeriFreight Car Shipping can help. We specialize in getting your vehicle to your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Idaho have a fly problem?
Not across the entire state. Flies can be a seasonal issue in rural areas, especially in regions with livestock or large-scale agriculture.
What is the safest area in Idaho?
Meridian ranks one of the safest places to live in Idaho. According to AreaVibes, Meridian’s total crime rate is 66.8 percent lower than the national average. It is also known for its strong schools, clean public spaces, and low violent crime.
Does Idaho get tornadoes?
Tornadoes in Idaho are rare. The NOAA Storm Events Database shows that Idaho averages fewer than one tornado per year across the entire state. Most of these are weak and short-lived, classified as EF0 or EF1. If you're concerned about natural disasters, you'll find that Idaho is much safer than many other states when it comes to tornado risk.
Why are all the Californians moving to Idaho?
Many Californians are moving to Idaho for lower home prices, lower tax rates, and a simpler pace of life. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Idaho consistently ranks among the top states for in-migration from California.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, real estate prices, commute times, and community features are subject to change. We recommend consulting with licensed Idaho-based real estate professionals, local government sources, or community organizations before making any housing or relocation decisions.
