Living in Idaho

#1 in population growth

Should you move to Idaho?

Idaho, known as the Gem State, is a hidden gem indeed. With its stunning mountain ranges, vast lakes, deep canyons, and sprawling plains, the state’s beauty is as unspoiled as it is breathtaking.

Idaho’s economy is as diverse as its landscape. The state is a major producer of potatoes, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Idaho also has strong manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors. Boise, the state’s capital and largest city, is a significant tech hub, housing the headquarters of Micron Technology and a major Hewlett-Packard research and development facility.

What’s more, Idaho’s agricultural roots run deep. The state leads in the production of trout, lentils, and, of course, potatoes. It’s also emerging as a new hotspot for vineyards and wineries, boasting an increasing number of award-winning wines.

Living in Idaho offers a perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure. Boise is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and an array of restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine. The city also has a network of biking and hiking trails, and the Boise River Greenbelt is a favorite among locals.

For nature lovers, Idaho is a paradise. It offers world-class fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. And let’s not forget the state’s top-tier ski resorts. Plus, with more natural hot springs than any other state, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for a warm soak amid the snowy landscape.

Idaho also takes pride in its strong educational system, including Boise State University and the University of Idaho.

So, if you’re seeking a state that offers a balance of economic opportunity, a low cost of living, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming community, then Idaho could be your next home. Just be prepared for the snowy winters and an abundance of outdoor fun!

#38 in population

Population

1,939,033

National Avg 6,652,315

#7 in population

Population Per Square Mile

22

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

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How Does Idaho Score?

D
Home Affordability
C
Cost of Living
D
Diversity

LEARN ABOUT
RANKINGS & DATA

Metropolitans

Living in Idaho

Climate

How Does Idaho Compare?

#29
in Sunny Days
#44
in Annual Rainfall
#46
in Daytime Humidity

Healthcare

#23

How Does Idaho Compare?

#23
in Healthcare
#4
in Available Beds
#50
in Doctors Per Resident

0

Children's Hospitals

1

VA Medical Centers

10

VA Clinics

Idaho Marijuana Laws

Cost of Living

#28

How Does Idaho Compare?

#28
in Cost of Living
#31
in Minimum Hourly Wage
#14
in Living Wage

Idaho State Taxes

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Essential New Mover Steps

What costs and challenges will you face when relocating to Idaho? Start your journey by preparing with these key steps.

eMortgage connects you with up to 5 competing mortgage lenders through a quick, streamlined process.

Renter tested. Landlord approved. Starting from $5/mo.

Moving costs can add up quickly. Start budgeting by tackling one of your largest costs first by requesting a free online quote from 1-800-Pack-Rat.

Education in Idaho

#4

Idaho School Districts

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #2 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

71%

Proficient or Above

32%

Ranked #4 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

74%

Proficient or Above

32%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
91.2%
Bachelors Degree
29.1%

Raising a Family?

See if any of these family-friendly places are a fit for yours.

Places (Cities & Towns)

Get to Know Idaho

State Capital

Boise

Area Codes

208, 986

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone, Pacific Time Zone

Number of Counties

44

Land Area (square miles)

82,645

Motto

Esto perpetua (Let it be perpetual)

State Bird

Mountain bluebird

Housing

#43
#43 in home affordability

Median Home Value

$398,900

National $440,300

#23 in rent affordability

Median Rent

$952

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$411

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Total Households

657,101

Persons Per Household

2.71

Rent vs Own

Own 71.7%
Rent 28.3%

Economy

#32 in household income

Median Household Income

63,377

National $70,784

#31 in labor participation
% in Labor Force
62.8%
Poverty Rate
11%

Industries by Revenue

in $1,000s

Health & Social Assistance Revenue

$10,468,990

Accomodations & Food Revenue

$3,598,148

Transportation & Warehousing Revenue

$3,057,829

Per Capita Retail Sales

14,500

Counties

Diversity

#41
White alone
92.6%
Black or African American alone
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone
1.7%
Asian alone
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone
0.2%
Two or More Races
2.8%
Hispanic or Latino
13.5%
White alone, not Hispanic or Latino
80.7%

Foreign Born Persons

5.8%

Veterans

118808

Persons Under 5 years
5.8%
Persons Under 18 years
23.9%
Persons 65 years and over
17%

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